The Benefits of Meditation
Cancer patients that are taught the benefits of meditation and how to meditate reduce their anxiety, anger, and confusion that are common with the disease. In cases of cancer and other chronic or terminal diseases, meditations benefits are a proven and documented way to strengthen a patient. By allowing the benefits of meditation to become part of a patients treatment plan, patients can gain some control over their illness.
Another interesting benefit of meditation has been documented in cases of patients suffering from atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. When a sample group of patients were taught meditation, the benefits were amazing. The effects of meditation surprised everyone. The patients that practiced meditation actually showed a reduction of the thickening along their artery walls. The potential benefits of meditation are astounding, as many people do not realize that they may suffer from atherosclerosis until they are seriously ill.
Whether you are suffering from a long term or chronic illness, or just hoping to reduce the stress in your life, you can enjoy the benefits of meditation. Meditation effects the brain waves in such a way that, when practiced properly, you can decrease your heart rate, lower your blood pressure, and even lift mild depression.
Many people shy away from meditation because of the religious connection. The benefits of meditation can be enjoyed without practicing the more spiritual aspects of the process. Many studies have been conducted on the effects of meditation, and the results are pretty conclusive. You can enjoy the benefits of meditation without involving the religion.
The non-religious aspects of meditation involve focusing on a single object, clearing your mind, and relaxation. Although this sounds simple, unless done properly the benefits of meditation may be lost on you. The problem that many people have with meditation is the necessary quieting of the mind.
Particularly in times of stress, it can be difficult to quiet your mind. To enjoy the benefits of meditation, you must silence the inner voice that wants to worry about everything under the sun. To enjoy meditations effects, you must learn to truly clear your mind during your meditation time. If you spend this time allowing your mind to race about the worries and concerns that you face, the benefits of meditation will be lost to you.
Quieting your mind for meditation is not easy, and it is not something that you can turn on and off. The benefits of meditation outweigh the difficulties in establishing a meditation practice. When you first begin to mediate, you may only be able to clear you mind for a few seconds or minutes, and that is okay. As you stick with your practice, you will develop more control over your mind and be able to meditate for longer and longer periods of time.
The benefits of meditation are numerous. As you develop control over your mind you will find that your ability to concentrate is improved, you may be able to reduce or eliminate prescription drugs, you will sleep better, and your overall health will improve. Taking the time to establish a practice will allow you to enjoy the numerous benefits of meditation.
