Meditation. When many people think of this word, they are likely to be skeptical and have difficulty believing that the age-old art can derive many mental and physical benefits. Studies have shown that this practice can lower stress, anxiety, and blood pressure and strengthen the immune system. However, cultural and social stereotypes may keep this effective and free resource underutilized.

Despite what many believe, meditation is not only a religious practice; it has a wide variety of applications that can also benefit the body. Meditation practices range from simple breathing techniques to advanced visualization or mantra-based techniques.

Can Meditation Relieve Stress?

Stress and anxiety are two inevitable occurrences that many of us suffer from at one point or another throughout life. It is well known both stress and anxiety can lead to mental and physical health complications, ranging from high blood pressure to clinical depression. While medical research has not drawn a definitive correlation between meditation and improved health, studies have shown a strong cause-and-effect relationship.

According to WebMD, studies show that individuals who habitually meditate have lower blood pressure and stronger immune systems. Doctors attribute this to the stress reduction aspect of the art. Dr. Charles L. Raisin, M.D. of Emory School of Medicine, conducted a study that indicated a few minutes of consistent meditation over six weeks improved physical and emotional health for participants.

The overwhelming result was reduced stress, a known factor in improving immune systems and overall health. Another study by the University of Wisconsin revealed “higher electrical activity in the left frontal lobe of the brain, an area that tends to be more active in optimistic people, after eight weeks of meditation training.” Aside from health improvements, meditation even led to higher concentration levels in daily life.

Improve Your Daily Life With Meditation

If stress or anxiety is taking a toll on your life, meditation is a free and easy way to reduce these ailments while improving cognitive abilities at the same time. Studies make a strong argument that people can improve their daily lives and health by meditating. A simple internet search will return nearly all the information on this topic someone would need to train their mind in meditation.