It is true that we live in very stressful times. The pandemic, health condition, uncertainty about the future, fear of unpredictability are integral parts of the reality in which we live and generators of stress and constant anxiety. We are not robots, and our emotional reserves are dwindling. We have come to the point where we want something seemingly simple, but at the same time so difficult to achieve – peace of mind. Inner calm is the state in which we want to live at least periodically.
My patients often complain about their emotional state, noting that it is more and more difficult for them to find a balance between the outer life and the life they live in the depths of their souls.
In this article, I would like to share with you what I have recommended to my patients regarding their concern. The state of continuous agitation and anxiety is known to me not only from hearsay. I personally have lived it many times. In search of the right solution for me, I discovered the practice of mindfulness. Have you heard about it? Or maybe you already practice it?
In its simplest sense, mindfulness refers to secular meditation – the ability to calm down and immerse yourself in the moment, without incense sticks, lotus position and recordings of Tibetan throat singing. Take away all the useless and leave functional practice that will help you feel better, understand your long-term goals, and protect yourself from toxic emotions.
In the first instance, I want to tell you about the benefits of practicing mindfulness. Why? Because that's human nature. First of all, we need to find a compelling reason to take action. And these are the reasons:
It stimulates creativity and reduces depression.
Brain waves are created by electronic impulses between neurons. Among activated brain waves, alpha waves are associated with creativity and higher imagination. These waves occur when we achieve a state of mindfulness, for example through meditation or "daydreaming."
It helps slow down aging.
Regular meditation can be effective in reversing the effects of aging due to its positive effects on the hippocampus. Research shows that people who practice meditation regularly have lower levels of lipid peroxide, a hormone known to accelerate the effects of aging.
It improves sleep quality.
The practice of meditation helps to eliminate the effects of insomnia, because during meditation the mind becomes attached to the natural state of awareness and is no longer disturbed by external circumstances.
- It improves breathing.
One of the fundamental benefits of breathing is increased awareness and focus on breathing. In times of stress, panic and anxiety, breathing tends to become shallow and fast. Sometimes we even forget to breathe for a few moments. Thus, meditation helps to reduce stress and promotes careful breathing.
- It helps improve health and immunity.
High levels of daily stress leads to dry skin, acne, hair loss, etc. This is because the constant secretion of cortisol causes other nutrients such as oxygen to be diverted. Experts say the general benefits of meditation lead to the elimination of toxins and thus help the body achieve a natural glow.