dreamstime_xxl_189396973.jpg

5 Ways Mindfulness Meditation is Good for Your Health

Mindfulness meditation is a practice that teaches you to slow down your thoughts and focus your attention on the present moment. It has been found to be an effective tool for relieving stress and boosting overall happiness. It is also very simple to practice: take a seat, pay attention to your breath, and when your attention wanders, return. Keep reading to learn more about the physical and psychological benefits of mindfulness meditation.

1. Improves mental health

Stress reduction is the most common reason why people try meditation. Research has shown that meditation can reduce anxiety symptoms in people with generalized anxiety disorder. In addition, mindfulness meditation can promote emotional health by improving self-image and cultivating a more positive outlook on life.

2. Reduces risk of heart disease

Meditation calms our bodies’ “fight-or-flight’ responses. When you practice a daily mindfulness meditation routine, you lower your heart rate and blood pressure, which may lower your risk of heart disease.

3. Decreases cognitive decline

Practicing mindfulness meditation for ten minutes a day may improve some aspects of cognition, including attention span and working memory. In addition to fighting normal age-related memory loss, meditation can also improve memory in patients with dementia.

4. Improves immune function

Stress and anxiety can suppress your immune system. Ultimately, meditation is one of the best things you can do to stay healthy. By taking wellness breaks and slowing down each day, you can improve your body’s ability to fight infection.

5. Improves psychological experience of pain

Mindfulness may improve the psychological experience of pain by decreasing repetitive thinking, increasing acceptance of unpleasant sensations, enhancing self-compassion, and inducing relaxation.

What is the best way to explore mindfulness?

Here are some ways you can practice mindfulness on a daily basis:

  • Pay attention: take a moment to experience your environment with all four senses–touch, sound, sight, smell, and taste

  • Live in the moment: be open and accepting to finding joy in simple pleasures

  • Accept yourself: practice self-compassion and self-love

  • Focus on your breathing: when you have negative thoughts, sit down, take a deep breath, and close your eyes, focusing on the gentle inhale and exhale of your breath

Here are some structured mindfulness exercises:

  • Body scan meditation: lie on your back and focus your attention slowly and deliberately on each part of your body

  • SItting meditation: sit comfortably with your back straight and breathe through your nose, focusing on your breath moving in and out of your body

  • Walking meditation: find a quiet place and walk slowly, focusing on the sensations of standing and the subtle movements that keep your balance

We are here to help you live a healthier, more balanced life.

Our knowledgeable staff has a combined experience of 100 years of pharmacy practice to help you achieve your health and wellness goals . If you would like to schedule a free consultation, please click here.