If you asked someone if they knew what meditation was they would almost certainly say yes. But if you asked someone if they actually practised mediation on a daily basis – they would almost certainly say no. Most people are under the misconception that meditation involves locking yourself away in a room and thoughtlessly staring at a wall for 5 minutes a day. Perhaps this misunderstanding is the central reason as to why people are ‘too busy’ to meditate or don’t see how it can actually help.
So here is a list of reasons why you should practice mediation daily:
- It reduces stress
Both mental and physical stress can cause an increased level in Cortisol – the stress hormone. Too much cortisol can cause health risks such as heart attacks and strokes, as well as mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression. An eight-week study showed that meditation significantly reduced the inflammatory response responsible for the health risks above.
- It can help with addiction
A growing number of studies have shown how meditation can help people recover from addiction, given its effects on the ‘self-control’ regions of the brain. A particular study showed that smokers who practiced mindfulness were more likely to have given up smoking compared to those who don’t.
- It improves concentration and attention span
The practice of meditation involves a strong focus of attention on one particular object. It is therefore not surprising that studies have seen a significant improvement in cognitive skills
- It reduces social anxiety
Meditation has been shown to give people more power over negative self-beliefs, helping instead to foster self-compassion and self-esteem.
- Meditation can be practiced anywhere at anytime
Meditation can be incorporated into your daily routine anywhere and at any time – you can never be too busy to find 5 minutes to meditate! Although it’s ideal to be in a peaceful space, you can even meditate whilst walking to work or campus. Depending on your busy schedule, mediation is best done in the morning or at night – but the most important thing is making it a consistent daily habit.
No matter how pressed you are for time with the busy aspects of daily life, taking 5 minutes a day to meditate will actually reduce your stress and anxiety and make you more productive, more efficient, and happier!