The benefits of meditation on the nervous system are numerous and can have a profound impact on overall health and well-being. When we meditate, we are able to activate the body's relaxation response, which helps to counteract the effects of stress on the nervous system. This leads to a reduction in anxiety, improved mood, and a greater sense of calm, focus, intuition, and clarity.
One of the key ways in which meditation benefits the nervous system is by reducing the body's stress response. When we experience stress, whether it be from work, relationships, or other factors, our body goes into fight-or-flight mode. This is a natural response designed to help us survive in perceived dangerous situations. However, when this stress response is activated too often or for prolonged periods of time, it can have negative effects on our overall health. That is why I enjoy doing yoga on a regular basis. It is a form of meditation and a healthy escape from the stress of our everyday life.
Meditation helps to activate the body's relaxation response, which is the opposite of the stress response. When we engage in deep breathing, focus on the present moment, letting our thoughts pass through our mind, we can easily switch off the stress response and activate the relaxation response. This has been shown to lower blood pressure, decrease heart rate, and reduce levels of stress hormones in the body.
In addition to reducing the body's stress response, meditation also has a positive effect on the brain and nervous system. Research has shown that regular meditation practice can increase the thickness of the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for decision-making, self-awareness, and emotional regulation. This can lead to improved cognitive function and a greater ability to manage emotions and make wise choices. That is precisely why I love to do yoga and to pray/meditate on a daily basis.
In addition, meditation has been found to increase levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps to calm the nervous system. Higher levels of GABA have been associated with a reduction in anxiety and improved mood. In fact, the effects of meditation is a holistic approach to treating anxiety and depression. And as I always say, drinking alcohol leads to anxiety and depression. So that is the reason that I eliminated alcohol from my life completely in 1997.
Yoga and meditation give us a sense of inner peace and well-being. When we meditate, we are able to let go of the constant stream of thoughts and worries that often consume our minds. I have learned that the best thing to do while meditating is to let the thoughts pass through our mind, instead of dwelling on them. This allows us to experience a state of deep relaxation and connection with ourselves and the present moment. And as Eckart Tolle taught me in, The Power of Now, being present is the key to being happy as well. This feeling of peace and well-being can have a lasting effect on our overall mood and outlook on life.
Additionally, meditation can help to improve our ability to focus and concentrate.
In a world filled with distractions and constant stimulation, our attention spans can often suffer. However, when we practice meditation, we are training our minds to stay present and focused. This can be particularly beneficial for those who struggle with ADHD or other attention disorders.
Lastly, meditation is an important part of living a healthier lifestyle because of its ability to reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a number of health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. By reducing inflammation, meditation can help to prevent and manage these conditions and promote overall health and well-being.
In conclusion, the benefits of meditation on the nervous system are abundant and can have a powerful impact on our physical and mental health. By reducing the body's stress response, improving brain function, and promoting a sense of peace and well-being, meditation can help us to live a healthier and happier life. It is the perfect practice to adopt and do on a regular basis, in between your bi-weekly or monthly massages. Since massage is the ultimate form of relaxation and meditation, I suggest that everyone incorporates it into their busy lifestyles. Doing massage, and committing to a regular meditation and yoga practice in our daily lives are simple and effective ways to support our overall well-being and enhance our quality of life. Check out a relaxing massage with me today. www.OrganicGoddessMassage.com
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