Meditation and Mental Health
Meditation, an ages old practice, can help to bring inner peace into our daily lives.
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Throughout history, meditation has been practiced in various manners as a way to introspect and pursue inner peace. From candle gazing meditation to yoga, the practice is truly diverse, making it very accessible to anyone and at any time. The first records of meditation come from the Hindu Vedas in approximately 1500 BCE (Sharma, 2015). However, this practice had existed long before, since the ancient hunter-gatherers, who meditated by fire gazing (Eliade, 1972). Many other cultures including Taoist China and Buddhist India have also utilized the practice of meditation, and therefore, it is difficult to determine exactly where and when meditation originated.
Meditation has many health benefits, both physical and mental. It can aid in alleviating a range of conditions including anxiety, asthma, and cancer while also reducing negative emotions and improving sleep quality. According to a study done by Dr. Elizabeth Hoge et al. patients who completed at least ne session of meditation had significant reductions in anxiety and distress as well as an increase in positive self-statements. Moreover, Eshvendar Kasala et al. have found that meditation can help those suffering from depression manage their emotions by decreasing levels of inflammatory chemicals called cytokines, which can affect mood and lead to depression.
By incorporating mediation into daily life, one may be able to reap the benefits of the practice. The best me. Apps and videos can help on the meditation journey, guiding individuals through various way to begin is to smart small. Begin with just a few minutes a day and gradually increase over timethods. In addition, be consistent. Meditating on a schedule can help with making time to meditate.
In a world filled with constant stressors, prioritizing mental health is critical. Meditation offers a powerful and accessible way to nurture mental health, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. By incorporating meditation into daily life, one may find peace within and embark on a journey towards better mental health. Remember, it's never too late to start meditating, and the benefits are well worth the effort.