The Importance of Meditation
Modern life for most people can be a very emotionally dynamic experience. We live through highs and lows and periods that for some can resemble total and constant chaos. To maintain balance, we tend to sway towards something effortless and convenient like the ritual glass of wine at the end of the day, or time spent unwinding in front of the TV. While we pass no judgment on either of these pastimes, we would like to present an alternative that we believe to have far more physically profound and mentally enriching capabilities.
Meditation is a practice of mindfulness, or mental focus that when done correctly results in the changing of brain waves to what is known as the theta state. Theta waves are prevalent in the brain during periods of deep relaxation that can have many beneficial effects on the mind and body, including:
- Increased immunity
- Stress and anxiety reduction
- Increased levels of creativity
- Body and mind restoration
- Increased levels of learning
- Long term memory
Historical Roots
The origins of this practice come from various religious disciplines, but ultimately are not synonymous or bound to any particular dogma. Science has shown us through clinical testing that our state of mind has an overwhelming bearing on the physical state of our bodies. Our perception of the world and life experiences are ultimately shaped by the condition of our minds. Through the practice of meditation, we can learn how to take control over the clamor of our thoughts, thus bringing peace to our lives and alleviating the stress that ultimately strains all aspects of our experiences.
Types of Meditation
There are many different forms of meditation, making it even easier for an individual to find what works best for them. We recommend exploring these different practices and trying out the ones you feel resonate most with you. Guided meditations can be found for free online, as well as downloads to listen to on your phone. Here are some of our favorites:
Mindfulness meditation
Mindfulness mediation is the practice of bringing your attention to the present moment without judgment, allowing for thoughts to pass with ease and a deeper state of relaxation to be achieved.
Mantra meditation
This form of mediation emphasizes the focus of a single word or phrase, which helps train the mind to allow intrusive, ill-serving thoughts to pass without the strain they may typically cause when given attention in daily life.
Transcendental meditation
Transcendental meditation or "TM" is a silent mantra mediation. This form of mediation also involves the repetition of a mantra within the mind, as opposed to spoken aloud.
Yoga Nidra
Yoga Nidra is practiced before bed as a way to induce a deeper, more refreshing night of sleep.
The practice of mediation has been around since 1500 BCE, and because of its survival through the ages and scientifically proven results, we believe it is of utmost importance to take it seriously and find a way to incorporate it into our daily routines. Even a ten-minute mediation every day, or whenever possible, can have incredible, worthwhile effects. There is so much that mediation can teach us about ourselves, now it's time we start listening!
