We’ve all heard the potential mental health effects that meditation can bring to the table. Whether you’re worried about concentration or relaxation, it’s time to weigh the benefits to see if meditation is a good fit for your life.
Does it Really Work?
It’s the question everyone asks, but it depends on if you’re actually doing it right. The goal of meditation is to discipline the mind. Often, our minds wander to places that can be straining on our mental health. To reap the benefits of meditation, we have to rewire our brains to avoid going down the slippery slope of negative thinking. Only then, can we notice changes in memory, attention and happiness.
How Can I Do It?
There’s no right or wrong answer here! Meditation is different for everyone. The goal is to train yourself to let your thoughts come and go, rather than adversely affecting you. However, there are a few ways to get started.
1. Focus on one thing. It can be anything from your breathing to a picture of something that is positive for you.
2. If you catch your mind wandering, bring it back and focus on that one thing.
3. Don’t get frustrated; this stuff takes time to master!
What Are the Health Benefits?
It is incredible what a holistic approach like meditation can do for your mental health. Research shows meditation can decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety. Over time, meditation allows the mind to focus on the good and ignore the bad. This allows you to become more compassionate, and feel happier overall.
For those suffering with mental illnesses like dementia, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, coupling meditation with traditional treatment like medication or therapy can have substantial impacts. Whether or not you think meditation could work for your life, the benefits might make it worth trying.
