As humans, we all get stressed from time to time. Though, it’s important to know how to combat the tense feelings life invites so we can live our happiest, healthiest, and most fulfilling lives. One method is mindfulness mediation.
What is Mindfulness Meditation?
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Therapy is a form of meditation, also known as mindfulness meditation. Mindfulness meditation is scientifically proven to improve the wellness of the practitioner. It enhances multiple dimensions of wellness including physical, cognitive, and emotional.
According to VeryWellMind.com, “mindfulness meditation is a mental training practice that teaches you to slow down racing thoughts, let go of negativity, and calm both your mind and body. It combines meditation with the practice of mindfulness, which can be defined as a mental state that involves being fully focused on ‘the now’ so you can acknowledge and accept your thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment.”
What are the Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation?
Physical wellness is improved by lowering blood pressure and regulating heart rate. Meditation improves both the quality and the amount of sleep (link sleep blog), as well as increasing energy levels. It has been proven to reduce chronic pain and lower the risk of heart disease.
Cognitive wellness is enhanced by meditation as it boosts working memory capacity, as well as general cognitive function. Increased focus and attention span are obtained from regular meditation.
Emotional wellness is positively affected by mindful meditation. Mindfulness improves our mental stability which in turn reduces feelings of depression, decreases levels of anxiety, and lowers stress. This practice can also be seen as a coping mechanism.
How to Practice Mindfulness Meditation
The trick to mindfulness meditation is to slow down your body and thoughts, and focus on the present. For those just starting off, set aside an amount of time each day dedicated to just being. Find a quiet, peaceful space, close your eyes, and simply breathe. Let any intrusive thought escape your mind and focus on your breathing patterns. Deep breaths that expand your belly are best.
You can also focus on being present through your daily activities. Instead of working out to your favorite television show or music artist, simply focus your mind on your movements, such as your feet hitting the ground. Ditch the radio while driving. Instead, focus on how hard you’re gripping the steering wheel and just relax. Enjoy your commute, rather than letting your to-do list clutter your brain.
Who says you have to meditate alone? Moorings Park at Grey Oaks offers Mindful Moments: A Mindfulness Meditation each month which focuses on elevating cognitive, emotional, and spiritual wellness. After all, at Moorings Park, our goal is to provide each of our members with life-enriching activities that elevate their health and happiness.
To learn more about Moorings Park Communities’ wellness and cognitive team, our luxury residences and how we’re delivering the Fountain of Youth, please visit MooringsPark.org or call 239-643-9111.
