Meditation—sometimes known as mindfulness—is a state of deep peace and calmness where you just let your thoughts flow naturally and relax.
When most people think of meditation, they think of Buddhist monks sitting quietly and trying to achieve nirvana, but can regular people also use it to help them in their daily lives? Meditation has been said to help reduce stress, boost self awareness, and make you more creative. It slows down the activity in your brain and lets you become deeply relaxed, but how does this work? I decided to look into it.
A 2011 study from Harvard University and the Massachusetts General Hospital tested the effects of meditation on participants over an eight-week period. They focused on general awareness of the body and state of mind without being judgemental about what was felt. The researchers found over the program participants’ brain structures actually changed in response to the meditation. The physical and mental benefits of meditation might be the effect of your grey matter transforming and not just the power of suggestion.
Meditation could also be a good thing for students to give a try. Neuroscientists have found a few sessions of meditation help improve focus and self control. People who meditated regularly were found to be able to stay on one task for a longer time and with less interruption. So maybe before your next paper is due try meditating a few times. It could be the difference between getting an assignment in on deadline and your study time turning into a Netflix binge session.
Research has also found meditation can help improve your love life. When both partners meditate, the quality of the relationship improves, according to studies. It was also good for everyday relationships, not just romantic ones. The practice makes you more comfortable with yourself, which in turn makes it easier for others to be comfortable with you.
The only problem is meditation is difficult and it takes focus and effort to get into the right headspace—literally. While there is no “right” way to meditate, the best way to do it is to find a position that is comfortable for you, either sitting or lying down. Then, focus on your breathing and let your thoughts flow without judging them or thinking too much. After a few minutes you should become deeply relaxed.
I was curious and a little bit sceptical while looking into meditation, so I decided to give it a try. I looked up a guide on YouTube and let a nice British man take me through the steps. I turned off my phone, focused on my breathing, and let my mind wander as he told me to do. Before I knew it I was deeply relaxed—so relaxed that I fell asleep. Maybe I just need more practice, but I still woke up from my impromptu nap feeling great!
Whether you use meditation to help you focus or just to help you doze off, give it a try if you’re curious. It might just help change your life for the better.
