Medical science describes meditation as a practice of concentrating one’s focus on a particular thing, which can be sound, object, movement, breath or visualisation with an aim to increase awareness of the present moment, reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance personal and spiritual growth.
Mankind has been known to use the technique of getting into a state of silence and calmness for a period of time dating back centuries that enabled them to attain an inner state of awareness and intensify personal and spiritual growth.
In the 21st Century, this age-old practice is proving to be a handy and popular technique to enable people, specially those working in high-stress areas to remain calm and deal with everyday demands of high-pressure jobs.
Benefits of Meditation:
- Those who meditate regularly has lower blood pressure not only during meditation but also over time helping prevent heart disease by reducing strain on the heart and arteries.
- Chronic pain may be treated with the help of meditation by diminishing the perception of pain in the brain. Sometimes, it may be used as a supplement to medical care of physical therapy.
- Meditation can increase the sleep quality by shortening the time to fall asleep. Various meditation techniques can be helpful in relaxing and controlling the “runaway” thoughts that can hinder sleep.
- Mental discipline and willpower can be developed with meditation which in turn can prevent triggers for unwanted impulses, while also help in recovering from addiction, losing weight and redirecting unwanted habits.
- A special type of meditation known as Metta can help in developing positive feelings, first toward yourself and then toward others. Metta increases positivity, empathy and compassionate behaviour toward others.
- Meditation has been known as a stress buster and anxiety reliever. Regular meditation helps in overcoming various mental health issues like social anxiety, phobias and obsessive-compulsive behaviours.
- Meditation can also help in overcoming depression and creating a more positive outlook on life. In order to gain from its benefits continuously, regular meditation is a must.
- Regular meditation has also been found to improve focus thus increasing memory and mental clarity. Thereby helping in fighting age-related memory loss and dementia.
- Positive changes in life could also be brought about by using meditation as a starting point through a better understanding of oneself.
- Meditation helps in improving psychological functioning, thereby making it easier to attain happiness and improving overall sense of wellbeing.