Meditation has been served to many as a fix it all solution but the reality is it can only manifest its many benefits if individuals properly utilize it over time. When stripped of it religious overtones, it has health benefits that benefit over time. In this way it is preventative care for life itself. Stress breaks down the body. Since meditation counter effects the negative side effects of stress, it hence aids and protects the body from stress induced disease.
Through meditations breathing and relaxation techniques, the body is able to reverse the effects of the sympathetic nervous system. This in turn is good for the heart, blood pressure, and mental clarity. It also helps the brain deal with depression and anxiety. However, most agree to achieve the required protection, one needs to practice meditation for at least 8 weeks to begin to see its benefits in one’s life. Like all better things for health, it is not just a fad but a life style commitment. One must continually strive to utilize meditation to counter stress throughout life to better reduce the negative effects of stress on health.
The article, “How long you need to meditate to see results for your body and brain” by Alexa Michail looks at how meditation over time can have positive effects on both the body and the brain. She also reviews how long one needs to incorporate the practice into one’s new life style routine. She states,
“Research shows meditation reduces stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms. A 2016 study found that longer-term meditation practice was associated with structural changes of the “white matter” in the brain, which is responsible for “relaying sensory information” and can explain why meditation helps people stay in the present moment and may help combat age-related cognitive decline. ”
“How long you need to meditate to see results for your body and brain”. Alexa Michail. February 11th, 2023. Fortune Well.
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Commentary
Meditation has been practiced for centuries and is an important part of many cultures. It is a great way to promote physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Most professionals suggest that after 8 weeks, one will start to see the benefits of meditation in one’s physical and mental health.
Introduction to Meditation
Meditation is a practice that involves focusing on the present moment and calming the mind. It can help to reduce stress and anxiety, as well as increase focus and clarity. It can also help to boost mood and promote overall wellbeing. The practice of meditation has been around for centuries and is now becoming increasingly popular in the Western world.
Meditation can be done in many different ways and can be tailored to fit your individual needs. It can be done in a seated position, lying down, or even while walking or doing other activities. There are many different forms of meditation, such as mindfulness, loving-kindness, and mantra-based meditation.
Benefits of Meditation
Meditation has been empirically demonstrated to have a bevy of positive implications on physical and mental health. There is evidence to suggest that it may reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and improve psychological well-being. Additionally, there are purported physiological benefits such as a decrease in heart rate and improved immune system functioning. Further research has identified potential correlations between regular meditation practice and decreased cortisol levels, improved respiratory functioning, and enhanced cognitive performance.
Meditation has many health benefits, both physical and mental. It can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve concentration and focus, and promote overall wellbeing. It has also been linked to improved sleep, increased happiness, and improved immune system functioning.
On a physical level, meditation has been shown to help reduce blood pressure, improve heart health, and reduce inflammation. It can also boost the immune system and help with pain management.
On a mental level, meditation can help to reduce stress and anxiety, as well as improve mood and focus. It can also help to improve memory and decision-making skills.
Meditation and Stress Management
Meditation can be a great tool for stress management. It can help to reduce stress and anxiety, as well as increase focus and clarity. It can also help to boost mood and promote overall wellbeing.
When practicing meditation for stress management, it’s important to find a technique that works for you. Some popular techniques include breath awareness, body scan, visualization, and mantra-based meditation.
Enhancing Your Wellbeing Through Meditation
Meditation can be a great way to enhance your wellbeing. It can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve concentration and focus, and promote overall wellbeing. It can also help to boost mood and improve sleep.
For those who are new to meditation, it’s important to start small and be consistent. It may take some time to find a technique that works for you, but it’s worth the effort. Once you find a technique that resonates with you, make sure to practice regularly to get the most out of it.
Conclusion
Meditation is a great way to promote physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. It can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve concentration and focus, and promote overall wellbeing. There are many different types of meditation, such as mindfulness, loving-kindness, and mantra-based meditation.
Getting started with meditation can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Start small and find a technique that resonates with you. With consistent practice, you will be able to unlock the many health benefits of meditation and enhance your wellbeing.
If you’re looking to unlock the health benefits of meditation and enhance your wellbeing, this guide should help you get started. Make sure to find a technique that works for you and practice regularly to get the most out of it. Meditation Instructors can also help guide one through the process and properly instruct individuals to properly meditate.
AIHCP offers a Meditation Instructor Program for qualified professionals seeking a four year certification. The program is online and independent study. Please review the program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.
Additional Resources
“12 Science-Based Benefits of Meditation”. Matthew Thorpe, MD, PhD and Rachael Link, MS, RD. October 27th, 2020. Healthline. Access here
“16 Health Benefits of Daily Meditation According to Science”. Madhuleena Roy Chowdhury, BA. June 19th, 2019. Positive Psychology. Access here
“What meditation can do for your mind, mood, and health”. Harvard Health Publishing. July 16th, 2014. Harvard Medical School. Access here
“10 Science-Backed Benefits Of Meditation”. Zameena Mejia. Forbes Health. Access here