I’ve been practicing meditation since I was young but it was only late 2014 that I truly was able to grasp the importance of meditation in my life. Meditation is for everyone and is different for everyone. There is no right or wrong way of doing it and mediation can help you increase your focus and reduce stress levels.

Meditation improves emotional wellness

10 minutes of meditation per day can help you control stress levels, decrease anxiety, improve cardiovascular health and achieve relaxation. When our bodies are exposed to stress, we respond with a “fight” response which causes the hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine to be released from our adrenal glands resulting in an increase in blood pressure. Meditation on a daily basis allows people to take charge of their own nervous system and emotions to achieve a state of relaxation which can lead to a reduction of lifestyle stress.

Meditation improves physical wellness

Aside from emotional benefits, meditation has been shown to provide a host of physical benefits to its practitioners. Not only has meditation been shown to improve blood pressure, heart and energy levels, meditation has also been shown to improve immune function as well. One study published in 2008 in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine showed that 40 to 60 high blood pressure patients who started meditation could stop taking their blood pressure medication.

So, why meditate?

Meditation allows us to focus, organise our thoughts and be mindful. In doing this myself, I’ve become less stressed and less anxious. I feel grateful to say that since meditation, I’ve had more space for relaxation and I’ve improved my focus and concentration.

How to get started

This list continues to be what works for me, and is only a guide. Everyone will experience various stages and different effects. Some people may notice changes such as sleeping better or just feeling more themselves.

1. Use an app, like Headspace or Calm.
2. Do it every morning for 10 minutes.
3. Create a personal meditation space or find a quiet space.
4. Notice the ways that meditation is making a difference in your life - if you’ve become happier, calmer, etc.
5. Let go of any pressure and practice mindfulness.
6. If you’re interested in learning more about mediation, join a meetup group!

What are your thoughts on meditation? If you’re still skeptical about the benefits of meditation, check out this Lifehacker post “What Happens to the Brain When You Meditation” written by Belle Cooper.