Meditation: A Mindfulness Practice
Over the years, those suffering from stress, anxiety, and depression have increased. If you find yourself one of the many who are experiencing these mental challenges, some mindfulness and wellness practices can support and even alleviate some of these negative feelings. These practices do not replace professional medical, cognitive, or behavioral support that may be required, but they do offer relief.
One notable mindfulness tool is meditation. Meditation is a practice that helps you find calm and even inspiration in your day-to-day life. However, when you are used to being on the go, it can be hard to start a practice that requires you to sit still and focus. In this article, you’ll learn more about meditation, what it is, and how to begin incorporating it into your routine.
What is Meditation?
Meditation is a practice that develops your awareness and attention by using different techniques. Similar to yoga, this practice has roots in Eastern spiritual traditions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. Today, meditation is practiced by people of all faiths and has been adopted as a wellness technique with scientific backing. Studies show that meditation has a measurable impact on the mind and body.
Benefits of Meditation:
Improved focus
Decreased anxiety
Increased concentration
Reduces stress
Types of Meditation
It’s easy to assume that meditation is just sitting down with your eyes closed, but it's a little more complex. In fact, there are a number of different types of meditation, each requiring its own technique. Each type also induces a specific effect.
Focused Attention Meditation: Focusing on an object, art medium, sound, or breath to gain concentration.
Zen Meditation: Being in the present and focusing on the breath. This practice requires you to sit and be alert.
Yoga Meditation: Integrates yoga practices and movement, focusing on relaxing the body and releasing stress.
Visualization Meditation: Using mental images to calm and relax your thoughts. (Ex. Envision being at the beach)
Vipassana Meditation: Requiring deep introspection and observation of your life and who you are as a person
Implementing Meditation in Your Routine
Research which meditation might be best for you, and start adding it to your everyday routine. While some prefer meditation in the morning, others opt for it at night, find out what works best for you.
Getting Started:
Discuss options with a healthcare professional
Find a coach or instructor
Join a local group
Do your research
For more resources on wellness and mindfulness, check out my linktree.
