Priyal Dholakia
Our ancient scriptures have enshrined the significance of meditation for centuries. In recent times, the modern world has also been getting acquainted with its benefits. If practised the right way on a regular basis, meditation can be no less than a miracle for us. Many people use meditation to relax, reduce stress, and improve their well-being. But did you know that just twenty minutes of daily meditation can change your brain in six months? Continue reading to learn more.
The science behind meditation
Let us look at the science behind meditation before we get into the benefits. When you meditate, you activate the prefrontal cortex of your brain. The prefrontal cortex is in charge of decision-making, attention, and focus. This brain region is also linked to empathy and compassion.
Meditation also reduces amygdala activity, which handles the fight-or-flight response in your brain. This means that meditating improves your ability to control your emotions. It also helps you respond to stress in a more productive manner.
Meditation also increases activity in the hippocampus. The hippocampal area regulates the learning and memory functions in your brain. This means that regular meditation can help you learn and memorize information better.
Now that we have covered the basics of meditation science, let us learn more about its benefits.
Improved focus and concentration– Improved focus and concentration are two of the best advantages of daily meditation. Regular meditation allows you to focus better for longer periods. This is especially useful if you have a job that requires a lot of mental focus. Or, if you are a student studying for exams.
Reduced stress and anxiety– Many people suffer from stress and anxiety, but regular meditation can help. When you meditate, you activate your body’s parasympathetic nervous system. This helps to relax and reduce stress and anxiety. According to research, regular meditation lowers cortisol levels, i.e., the stress hormone.
Improved emotional well-being – Regular meditation can improve your emotional well-being while reducing stress and anxiety. It can even help you feel more connected to others and uplift your mood.
Better sleep– Regular meditation may be beneficial if you have trouble sleeping. When you meditate, you help your body relax and prepare for sleep. According to research, regular meditation can improve your sleep quality. It also helps you fall asleep faster.
Increased self-awareness– Regular meditation can also improve your self-awareness. Self-awareness is the ability to be present in the moment and understand one’s thoughts and feelings. Meditation makes you more aware of your thoughts and emotions. It can help you understand yourself and your reactions to various situations.
How do I start meditating?
Now that you are aware of the many benefits of daily meditation, you may be wondering how to begin. Here is how you can get started:
Find a quiet place with minimal disturbance. Sit in a comfortable position with your back straight and your feet flat on the floor. Set a 20-minute timer. Focus on your breathing and close your eyes. Take note of how the air flows in and out of your body. If your mind wanders, bring it back to your breath. When the timer goes off, open your eyes and take a few deep breaths before standing up.
It is critical to remember that meditation requires time and patience to see results. If you are new to meditation, begin with a few minutes per day, after which you may increase your meditation time.
There are also many types of meditation to choose from, so it is critical to find one that suits you. Some popular ones include mindfulness meditation, body scan meditation, etc. You can also find guided meditations online or through meditation apps.
Making meditation a part of your daily routine is extremely beneficial. Try meditating at the same time every day. If possible, make it the first thing in the morning or before bed. This can help you form a habit so that you can make meditation a regular part of your life.
Daily meditation can have a significant impact on your brain and overall well-being. Only 20 minutes of meditation a day can work wonders for you. You can reap its benefits and transform your brain in as little as six months. So, make sure to start today by incorporating meditation into your daily routine.
