Meditation is no longer just for monks. Science has proven what yogis have known for centuries: Meditation heals. Here are the top 10 health benefits of adding mindfulness to your daily routine.
1. Reduces Stress
Meditation lowers cortisol levels, the body's stress hormone.
2. Controls Anxiety
Regular practice reduces symptoms of anxiety disorders, including phobias and social anxiety.
3. Promotes Emotional Health
It can lead to an improved self-image and a more positive outlook on life.
4. Enhances Self-Awareness
Meditation helps you develop a stronger understanding of yourself.
5. Lengthens Attention Span
Focused attention meditation is like weight lifting for your attention span.
6. May Reduce Age-Related Memory Loss
Improvements in attention and clarity of thinking may help keep your mind young.
7. Can Generate Kindness
Metta, or loving-kindness meditation, increases positivity and empathy toward others.
8. May Reduce Addictions
The mental discipline you can develop through meditation may help you break dependencies.
9. Improves Sleep
Meditation helps you relax your body and release tension, helping you fall asleep faster.
10. Helps Control Pain
Meditation can diminish the perception of pain in the brain.