Benefits of Meditation

These days our homes and places of work are filled with every
conceivable labour-saving device. Our washing machines can wash and
dry our clothes for us while we are out and about doing out own thing,
our meals can be micro waved in minutes, and cleaning our homes is not
the chore is used to be a few decades ago. Even with such things to
help us though, let's face it, modern day living can still be pretty
stressful and people need to find ways to relive the stress and
tension that has built up inside them. One way, strange to say, is a
very old way: meditation.

Meditation is not only good for the mind and spirit, the practice of
correct meditation techniques can also benefit the body. One organ of
the body to benefit from meditation is the heart (and what an
important organ it is)because when someone meditates they reach a
state of tranquility that decreases both their heart rate and their
metabolic rate. Other physical benefits of meditation include the
reduction of free radicals in the body by the elimination of unstable
oxygen molecules, lowering of high blood pressure, lowering of
cholesterol levels and an improved airflow to the lungs. Meditation is
also believed to delay the aging process by increasing the levels of
DHEAS in older people.

That's just some of the physical benefits, but what of the
psychological benefits of meditation?

Meditation can aid in increasing a person's brain wave coherence. This
can lead to decreased anxiety levels and make a person less irritable
and prone to deep-set depression and mood swings. Meditation can also
improve the memory and aid learning ability. People who meditate often
feel younger, more vital and have a more positive and joyful outlook
in life.

Other noted benefits that can be gained from meditation include:

Relaxation of the mind, body and soul.
Rejuvenation (more energy to face the heavy challenges and stresses of
the day ahead).
Healing (mind and body).
Emotional stability.
Enhanced mind function.
Helps a person discover his or her inner self and releases their
creativity.
Can help people free themselves from vices and addictions such as
alcohol and cigarettes etc.
Can help people gain a higher self-confidence and stronger will power.

These are just a few of the positive benefits that can be gained from
meditation, but there are many, many more. Like many things, though,
mediation needs to be performed correctly. If it is not there may be
side effects and so anyone who is planning on learning the art of
meditation should always consult a professional first who can instruct
them in the correct techniques.