Meditation

A meditation practice introduces consciousness to life, teaching the meditator to actively choose how to respond to situations, instead of doing what they always do. Meditation has been used for centuries to relax, develop love, compassion, generosity, and forgiveness.

Medical research studies show that meditation can offer relief from anxiety and depression.   This ancient practice encourages the mediator to control their thoughts and center towards positive outcomes.  It helps calm the mind and offer space to let go of ongoing fears. When added to a busy and stressful life, it can create peace and health.  Often practitioners find that once they start with meditation they gravitate towards yoga and other practices that further the journey of body and mind.

 

History & Origin

Meditation originated in early Indian civilizations where it was called Dhyana.  Later presences in Taoist China and Buddhist India have also been documented. Dhyana’s influence changed the meditation practices in Buddhism that later spread across China, Japan and other countries. In Islamic areas, meditation is linked with Sufism and derived from the concept where breathing controls are practiced along with the repetition of holy words.

 

Impact of Meditation on Brain Activities

By giving the brain an opportunity to relax through meditation, it can provide clearer thought processes, increased creativity, and lower levels of stress.   Additionally it can:

• Increase focus, concentration, and control
• Resolve phobias and fears,
• Open and creative thinking
• Stabilize emotions
• Increase productivity
• Reduce the aggression or anger responses
• Solve complex problems efficiently
• Reduce dependence on medications for balance.

 

Long Term Benefits

With the continuous practice of meditation, participants often experience the following long term benefits:

• Improvements in blood flow, and a lower heart rate
• Increased stamina and oxygen consumption
• Decreased the blood lactate which can reduce anxiety
• Increase the level of muscle relaxation
• Lower blood pressure
• Reduce cholesterol levels and minimize cardiovascular disease
• Better flow of air in the lungs, helping them to function effectively.
• Relax nervous system
• Decrease aging effects on the skin
• Optimal performance in sports or other high stress other activities

At InnerFit we are pleased to offer both personal guided meditation sessions as well as meditation classes.   Please contact us for more information on designing a meditation program to help accomplish your goals.