“You have a treasure within you that is infinitely greater than anything the world can offer.”
– Eckhart Tolle
Did you know, according to Psychology Today, “When researchers examined the lifespan of long-time TM practitioners they were 23 percent less likely to die, 30 percent less likely to die of cardiovascular disease and 49 percent less likely to die of cancer when compared to a control group.” TM stands for Transcendental Meditation… we talk about what that is in today’s post!
Ommmm
For the better part of my life, I thought meditation was a bit woo-woo.
I thought it was just for people who liked to play pretend with their mind and imagine that closing their eyes and breathing deep had some sort of existential impact.
But life has a way of showing you your own folly.
(If you pay attention)
It took me a while to experience the benefits of meditation — such as a calmer mind and better control over my impulses. But once I saw them, I couldn’t unsee them.
In fact, here’s what the science says about meditation…
- Reduces Stress
- Manages Anxiety & Depression
- Lowers Blood Pressure
- Strengthens Immune System
- Improves Memory
- Regulates Mood
- Increases Self-Awareness
- Helps With Addiction
- Improves Sleep
Still, a lot of people misunderstand meditation.
As I used to, they think the goal is just to be silent and quiet your mind… but that’s not necessarily the case.
The ultimate goal is to understand your mind better so you can manage your mind better.
Here are some different types of meditation that can help with that…
Mindfulness Meditation: This involves paying close attention to your thoughts as they pass through your mind. You don’t judge them or get involved with them; you simply observe. This helps you to identify patterns and triggers in your thought processes, which can help you manage stress, anxiety, and other negative emotions more effectively.
Loving-Kindness Meditation: Also known as Metta meditation, this practice involves directing positive energy and goodwill towards yourself and others. It can help you develop an attitude of compassion and love, both for yourself and for those around you.
Transcendental Meditation: This is a form of meditation where you silently repeat a mantra to yourself. This can help you focus your mind and find a sense of peace and stillness.
Body Scan or Progressive Relaxation: This involves focusing on different parts of your body, acknowledging any sensations you feel without judgment. This can help you to connect more deeply with your physical presence and to recognize when stress or other negative emotions are affecting you physically.
Breath Awareness Meditation: This involves focusing on your breath, inhaling and exhaling slowly and deliberately. This can help you focus your mind, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation.
Remember, the goal of meditation is not to ’empty’ your mind but to become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations.
By doing this, you can start to understand how these internal processes affect your behavior, emotions, and overall well being.
Give it a try and see what happens. You might be surprised (as I was) 🙂
Video Of The Week: Universe Size Comparison | Cosmic Eye (Original HD)
This Week’s Riddle
Here’s this week’s riddle — the answer is at the bottom of the email!
You measure my life in hours and I serve you by expiring. I’m quick when I’m thin and slow when I’m fat. The wind is my enemy.
This Week’s Journaling Prompt
Take some time to think through the following journaling prompt.
Why is stillness and quietness so difficult for you?
This Week’s Challenge
Set a goal to meditate for 5 minutes every day and see how it feels. If you stick with it, I think you’ll be surprised at the benefits it has on your mental health. 🙂
Riddle Answer: A candle.