Life can be lovely and thrilling, but it can also be very stressful. Stress can come from a variety of sources, including large mortgage payments, long commutes, and superiors who do not give us the credit we deserve.
Surveys have uncovered some worrisome statistics about stress. 33% of respondents say they are under substantial stress, and 48% believe the stress in their lives has increased during the last five years. A stunning 77% of those polled cited physical symptoms caused by stress.
What are some of the physical symptoms connected with persistent stress?
• Symptoms may include discomfort, insomnia, autoimmune disorders, and digestive problems.
• Eczema, heart disease, and weight concerns.
• Difficulties with reproduction.
• Issues with thinking and remembering.
How Meditation Can Help
Meditation has been proved in scientific research to help cure physical stress symptoms like IBS, high blood pressure, and ulcerative colitis. Meditation has been linked to improved immune function, lower pain sensitivity, and a shift from negativity to positivity.
Furthermore, studies suggest that meditation may physically alter the brain and our ability to cope with chronic stress.
So, what precisely constitutes meditation? When many people hear the word, they immediately think of people sitting in lotus position saying, "Ohmmm."
Mindful meditation is just the practice of directing our attention to quiet our racing thoughts. Instead of letting our minds to run wild like eager puppies, sniffing one notion after another, mindfulness focuses our attention on the present moment.
The problem is that because mediation appears to be so simple, many individuals believe it cannot possibly work in general or will not benefit them. And, because we live in a society that values instant gratification, some people believe that after 20 minutes of meditation, all of their problems would magically disappear.
However, meditation is known as a "practice" for a reason. To gain the benefits of good nutrition and exercise, like with anything else that is healthy for your mind and body, you must be committed.
Tips for Beginner Meditators
If you want to practice meditation for yourself, here are a few essential tips:
• Get comfortable—you don't have to sit in the lotus position. You may sit in a comfy chair or lie down. The goal is to be comfortable enough that your physical sensations do not distract you, but not so comfortable that you fall asleep.
• Do not try to regulate your breath; instead, breathe naturally while remaining aware of it.
• Begin with only a few minutes and progress from there.
• Don't strive to be perfect. There is no such thing as perfection in life or meditation, therefore continue to practice every day.
If you find after you’ve been meditating for a little while that you could use some extra help dealing with the stress in your life, get in touch with me. I’d be happy to explore treatment options with you and talk about how I may be able to help.