Benefits of Meditation
Some Physical Benefits Include:
- Lowers blood pressure
- Decreases stress-related pain such as tension headaches and stiff muscles
- Boosts immune function
- Increases natural serotonin levels to assist in mood stabilization
Some Mental Benefits Include:
- Anxiety and stress decrease
- Helps memory and focus through relaxation and focus
- Happiness and creativity come easier
- Emotional stability improves
How To Get Started
Guided meditation is probably the easiest way to start for beginners. It's a wonderful introduction into learning to focus on your breath as well as the process of how certain meditations work. Guided meditations often start off by asking you to find a comfortable position where you can focus without any outside distractions. This will allow you to direct your focus inward, and start to settle into that relaxed state. It's okay if you fall asleep! If you're worried about timing or being asleep for too long you may need to set an alarm just in case. If you do fall asleep the relaxed feeling from your meditation can carry through to your sleep and you should wake up feeling rested, relaxed, and more positive. Be patient with yourself and the process, as with any new practice it will take time to master but you should notice some immediate effects.
I recommend trying out a few different versions recorded by different people to get a feel for what works for you. There are quite a few guided meditations available on YouTube as well as different CDs that can be purchased online; I've even found a few apps that have been helpful as well! If you want a more detailed introduction, you may find it helpful to look up meditation coaches or yoga studios in your area that could provide you with a more in-depth experience.
Conclusion
Meditation has endless benefits for those who practice, especially for those suffering from depression. A decrease in stress and anxiety as well as an increase in natural serotonin help to increase energy and stabilize mood. Getting started with meditation is fairly easy as there are lots of options available online and through apps so you can bring that feeling of calm wherever you go.
