If you are depressed, you are living in the past. If you are anxious, you are living in the future. If you are at peace, you are living in the present.
- Lao Tzu
Meditation
Many clients come to me curious about meditation or mindfulness, but many do not really understand what it is, or how it can help them. There are numerous meditation techniques, including:
- concentrating on the breath
- pranayama techniques
- mindfulness and observing thoughts and sensations
- walking meditation
- repeating a mantra
- focusing on a spiritual connection
People often say: “I can’t meditate. I’ve tried. I can’t stay that focused.” I respond by telling people, meditation is like training a puppy. It takes time, patience, and compassion. You sit, and breathe...and then your mind goes to lunch. You come back to the quiet, and then you think about what you’re going to do after work. You come back to your breath...and then you think about your family. And then you come back to your breath….
The ability to be in the present moment is a major component of mental wellness.
- Abraham Maslow, Ph.D.
Living in the present is not an easy job.
But, meditation can be very useful, emotionally and physically. Some studies have shown the following benefits:
- lower blood pressure
- improved blood circulation
- lower heart rate
- less perspiration
- slower respiratory rate
- less anxiety
- lower blood cortisol levels
- more feelings of well-being
- less stress
- deeper relaxation
Meditation may be a useful technique for you: for stress reduction, to help with physical challenges, or for coping with strong emotional reactions.contact Starla today