Why Should You Meditate?

What if you could close your eyes, then open them a few minutes later and be relaxed, alert, and able to think clearly? Meditation can do that for you, and it's easier than you might think.

Documented Benefits of Meditation

Less anxiety.
Decreased depression
Reduction in irritability and moodiness
Better learning ability and memory.
Greater creativity.
Slower aging (possibly due to higher DHEA levels).
Feelings of vitality and rejuvenation.
Less stress (actual lowering of cortisol and lactate levels).
Rest (lower metabolic and heart rate).
Lower blood pressure.
Lower cholesterol levels.
Higher blood oxygen levels.

A Simple Meditation To Use Now

Don't think meditation has to be difficult. Try this simple technique, and you'll see results in minutes. Get comfortable, close your eyes, and tense up your whole body. Then breath deeply through your nose as you release the tension from every muscle. Feel each part relaxing, watching for parts that may escape notice, like a tight jaw. If you still have tension somewhere, tense up that part again, then let it relax.

Let your breathing fall into a comfortable pattern, and pay attention to it. Be aware of your breath as it passes in and out of your nose. Though your mind will wander endlessly, all you have to do is continually bring attention back to your breath.

Is your mind is still too busy? Try naming the distractions as a way of setting them aside. Try, for example, saying in your mind, "itchy leg," "worried about work," or "anger," and then immediately return attention to your breathing.

Do this meditation for five or ten minutes, or for 100 breaths. When you open your eyes, you'll feel relaxed, and your mind will feel refreshed. You'll be better prepared for any mental challenges. Why not try it now?