Meditation practice involves the mind and body and has long been used for increasing calmness, peacefulness and physical relaxation, it has also been used for improving and individuals psychological balance, even coping with different types of illness, and most of all enhancing ones overall health and well-being. Meditation practices focus on the connection and balance between the brain, mind, body, the spirit and behavior toward everyday situations.
There are many different types of meditation practices, but most involve four distinct elements : a quiet location; a comfortable posture (sitting, lying down, walking); focusing ones of attention ( using mantra or a chosen word or set of words, focusing on an object, or paying close attention to the way of the breath); as well as an open attitude and mind (letting the distractions come, acknowledging them and then letting them go naturally without judgement).
~What's the Bottom Line on Meditation?~
How much do we really know about the practice of meditation?
Many studies have to look at how meditation practice may be helpful for many different mental and physical conditions, such as high blood pressure, certain psychological disorders, pain and more. Some studies have even helped researchers learn just how meditation practice might work and its affects the brain.
What do we know about how effective meditation practice really is?
Research has shown that meditation practice reduces blood pressure, symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety and depression, insomnia, and more. Some studies have shown its effectiveness on pain management…..although it may not work for every individual that uses it.
What do we know about the safety of meditation?
Meditation is considered to be safe for healthy people. People with physical limitations may not be able to participate in certain types of meditative practices involving movement. If an individual wishes to use meditation they should look into many different types and talk to a health care professional about what type might be best.