Benefits of meditation
Share this articleEmail this article
Meditation has long been hailed as a miracle cure by varying cultures and is part of a daily practice for millions of people worldwide.
The miracle is found not only in the chemical changes that take place physically during meditation but also in the greatly improved state of mind and for many, the alleviation of depression and stress. It is the oldest health practice that exists in the world and for good reason.
Meditation dates back to thousands of years ago when ancient man discovered they could achieve altered states by staring into flickering flames of fire. From then on several meditation techniques were developed and began to spread across Asia until it reached the West in the mid 20th Century.
In the early 60’s and 70’s doctors and scientists began to test the effects of meditation and assess the benefits.
They found that during the process of meditation a person would experience actual chemical changes in the body that were highly beneficial for for both mental and physical health.
For those suffering from high stress meditation is a life changing tonic with no negative side effects. It is so effective that many doctors are now recommending it to their patients and there are now even some UK schools teaching meditation to pupils.
Meditation is essentially learning to focus the mind on one single thing. When the mind is clear of all other thought, the body’s immune system becomes strengthened and is able to do what it was designed for and heal the body. When thoughts leave the mind a huge amount of stress leaves the body simultaneously and during meditation we learn to do this for as long as possible. The feeling of relief and release in both the mind and body is so pronounced that many people find their practice as liberating and important as attending a gym.
Scientifically, the chemical serotonin is released in the body during meditation. Serotonin is mostly found lacking in people who suffer from depression and insomnia so being able to naturally increase this in the body can make a huge difference. Cortisol levels which are associated with stress become significantly lower during meditation and stay low for hours afterward. Generally the way people will respond to stressful events and situations after meditating will be calmer and less emotional than had they been responding to events from an already stressed state of mind.
Physically a regular meditator will have a stronger immune system and their body will be much better at coping with seasonal colds and flu.
Employers are enjoying the benefits of their staff meditating and in some companies it is highly encouraged. Staff become more motivated, increase their productivity, have longer periods of concentration and less sick days.
The best way to understand meditation is to experience it yourself. Just 20 minutes a day is the equivalent to 3 hours sleep and once you have enjoyed such a deep level of relaxation, meditation easily becomes one of the greatest joys of your life.
Click here to email karina@karinagrant.co.uk today to enquire about attending a class!
