Meditation: Beneficial or Waste of Time?
By Genevieve Cunningham
Meditation. This is a practice that is ancient and new age all at the same time. Though it’s been around for centuries, many people in today’s world seem to think it’s a hippie practice. They think that only those people meditate, but regular people don't partake in the practice. The truth is that meditation is a staple in many places in the world, and it brings a multitude of benefits to life. If you’re interested in what regular meditation may do for you, take a look at these benefits that come with regular meditation.
It Might Reduce Depression and Anxiety
Research has consistently shown that people who meditate on a regular basis have lower levels of both depression as well as anxiety. It should be noted that this is not a substitute for medication for those people who really need it. But it may enhance results for people diagnosed with these disorders, as well as for people who feel the effects but are not clinically depressed.
It Might Enhance Focus
Meditation forces you to stop thinking, or at least to slow the mind and stop worrying. It teaches you to be patient and to allow thoughts to flow through your mind without consuming the mind. This process may, over time, enhance focus and concentration. Those who meditate regularly find that paying attention is a bit easier and that those distracting thoughts are much easier to control on a daily basis.
It Might Boost Body Function
Most people associate the mind with meditation, but the mind and body are intricately connected. Those who meditate often find that their body health improves. The heart rate is often lower, circulation improved, and stress levels far lower. Though the improvements might be slight, especially at first, they are often noticeable both to the person meditating as well as to doctors.
So is it beneficial? Without a doubt, the answer is a resounding yes. Meditation might be difficult at first, especially for the complete beginner. We don’t sit still often in today’s world, so many people have a hard time with the process. But with some time and effort, most people find major benefit and even enjoyment in picking up and keeping the practice. If you haven’t already, give meditation a try in your life and watch these and other potential benefits roll in.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.