Meditation has been an ancient practice followed to gain control of the mind and become mindful, improving mental health. It has also been associated with bringing improvements in physical health too. But, many people doubt the authenticity of these claims.
This article lists the benefits of meditation backed by scientific studies that prove it can positively impact our lives.
Improves pain control
Meditation can help reduce various physical pain. The perception of pain is connected to the state of mind. It is usually elevated in stressful situations. But with meditation, you have greater control over your mind, which can help reduce the sensation of pain.
For instance, meditation can provide long-term benefits for fibromyalgia in men. A study shows that an eight-week mindfulness program can help people cope with pain, anxiety, and depression. Similarly, another research shows that meditation can help reduce pain and depression in people with chronic pain.
Reduces memory loss
Meditation may help reduce age-related memory loss in specific individuals. It helps improve attention and keeps the mind young, leading to a reduction in memory loss. A study has shown that Kirtan Kriya, a form of meditation, can help with Alzheimer’s disease by improving neurophysical abilities.
Additionally, meditation has proven to improve memory in individuals who have dementia partially. It can also prove helpful for family members and caregivers of people who have dementia.
Enhances mental health
Meditation helps improve symptoms of depression, leading to improved mental health. A study concluded that meditation could result in small to moderate reductions of multiple factors related to mental stress. Similarly, another study showed that meditation reduces negative thoughts. The participating group practicing meditation and mindfulness experienced fewer negative thoughts when shown negative images.
Various other numerous studies show that meditation can help improve the emotional health of individuals. It would be best if you weren’t completely dependent on meditation to improve your mental health. Seek professional medical help, too, in addition to practicing mindfulness and meditation.
Improves sleep
Insomnia is an issue that numerous people face. It can lead to various problems and can affect daily life. For instance, sleep deprivation can lead to memory issues, weakened immunity, high blood pressure, increases heart diseases, and frequent mood changes.
Meditation programs can help people sleep longer by helping control thoughts that lead to insomnia. Additionally, meditation helps put you in a relaxing, peaceful state, making you more likely to fall asleep.
Controls addictions
Many people cannot give up on their addictions like smoking, drinking, and drugs. This is due to the lack of mental discipline required to overcome these habits. As per a study, meditation can help break your dependencies and help increase your self-control and awareness. For example, one research found that meditation can help reduce alcohol cravings and consumption after three months of practicing.
Similarly, meditation can also help reduce binge eating. Although not highly harmful than other forms of addiction, binge eating can cause serious problems if not controlled. Meditation can act as an intervention for binge eating, emotional eating and help with weight loss.
Reduces anxiety
Meditation helps relax the mind, which can reduce stress levels. This eventually leads to reduced anxiety. One research found that meditation can help reduce anxiety in people with the highest levels. Similarly, other forms of mindfulness activities like yoga, too, can reduce stress.
Numerous other studies prove meditation can help reduce anxiety. Thus, if you are one of those who suffer from it, you should definitely practice meditation.
Increases attention
Meditation can help increase the strength and endurance of your attention. For instance, one study found that brief daily meditation can enhance concentration, memory, and emotional regulation. This result is achieved with just thirteen minutes of daily meditation.
Similarly, another study has shown that meditation can, in fact, reverse patterns associated with reduced attention, such as worrying, overthinking, and mind wandering.
Additionally, simply listening to a meditation tape can increase attention and accuracy while completing a task.
Generates kindness
Meditation helps increase the positive feelings, ensuring a calm, relaxed state of mind. This can lead to people developing kindness towards themselves and others. A study conducted on college students found that students practicing meditation had a better understanding of others and were more compassionate and kind.
Meditation is an activity that you can do easily anytime, anywhere. It doesn’t even require any additional equipment or membership to a gym or other clubs. There are a variety of meditation courses that are available for free on the internet. Similarly, there are also dedicated support groups and paid sessions that can help you with meditation.
And we have seen that it is proven that meditation can help improve your mental and physical health. There’s no reason not to try meditation.
