Meditation Benefits
Meditation is far more than relaxation; it has been practiced for centuries, in the West it is commonly practised to help reduce stress. But what about meditation for a healthy mind?
Meditation and mindfulness exercises may sound like a miracle cure and too good to be true. But anyone who struggles with panic attacks, anxiety, depression, bipolar overwhelm, or struggle with emotional issues can benefit greatly. In just a few minutes a day it is possible to see how meditation can be life changing. Below we look at its benefits as part of a balanced wellness plan.
Benefits for Meditation for a Healthy Mind
Below you will see the numerous benefits of meditation for a healthy mind that can extend to an overall better life.
Reduce Age-Related Memory Loss
Meditation may reduce memory loss as we age.It can help with clarity of thinking and may help to keep your mind young. Kirtan Kriya is a method of meditation that combines a mantra or chant with repetitive motion of the fingers to focus your thoughts.
Studies in people with age-related memory loss have shown it improves performance on neuropsychological tests.
Furthermore, a review found evidence that meditation can increase attention, memory, and mental quickness in older volunteers.
In addition to fighting normal age-related memory loss, meditation can at least partially improve memory in patients with dementia. It can also help to control stress and improve coping for those caring for family members with dementia.
Meditation and Medical Conditions
Meditation might also be useful if you have a medical condition, especially if it is worsened by stress (which is most of them). It may be suggested along with medical treatments. And while there is some scientific research to supports the health benefits of meditation, some researchers believe it’s not yet possible to draw conclusions about the possible benefits. With this said meditation is a relaxation technique, and that is something most people will benefit from.
Some research suggests that meditation may help people manage symptoms of conditions such as:
- Anxiety
- Asthma
- Cancer
- Chronic pain
- Depression
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Sleep problems
- Tension headaches
Be sure to talk to your health care provider about the pros and cons of using meditation if you have any of these conditions or health problems. In some rare cases, such as mental health issues meditation might worsen symptoms. So always talk with your Dr or health care professional.
Meditation isn’t a replacement for traditional medical treatment. But it may be a useful addition to your other treatment.
Insomnia
Nearly half of the population will struggle with insomnia at some point. Sleep is essential for a healthy mind. In our slumber we heal and rejuvenate so we can be at our best. Meditation helps by relaxing slowing down our thoughts helping to fall asleep more easily. And stay asleep.
One study compared mindfulness-based meditation programs and found that people who meditated stayed asleep longer. And, had improved insomnia severity, compared with those who had an unmedicated control condition.
Additionally, it can help relax your body, releasing tension and placing you in a peaceful state in which you’re more likely to fall asleep.
Concluding Meditation for a Healthy Mind
and a practise for West as we are seeking answers to promote a healthy mind, reduce stress, find balance in the chaos and re-connect to ourselves, find inner peace and generally living healthy.