One of the most wonderful things about meditation is that you can experience many of its benefits in the very first minute.
It’s not something that you have to practice for weeks upon weeks to notice any changes, but if you’re able to practice regularly for a month or so, research has found that it actually changes brain patterns that are likely to create a shift in your outlook toward life – for the better..
Here’s what you’ll reap immediately by giving it a try.
Stress relief. Meditation is a great way to reduce stress. Not only does it give you time to rest your mind and body, it directly impacts your nervous system by decreasing your body’s production of stress-related hormones like cortisol.
Less anxiety. A 2009 study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that meditation decreased anxiety and increased hope in patients. This ancient practice helps you to feel immediately satisfied in the moment, melting anxiety away.
Better posture. After meditating in a position in which you actively sit up straight, it’s likely to prevent you from slouching throughout the rest of the day by making you more aware of your posture.
You’ll be more aware of what you’re eating. As meditation helps you to remain in the moment, you’re likely to pay attention to each bite, noticing a food’s flavors and aromas, and even experiencing enhanced taste and smell.
You’ll stop worrying about your to-do list. When you meditate, your brain gets a break from all that thinking about what you have to do and how and when you’ll do it.
Pain reduction. Research has found that practicing meditation can reduce chronic pain, including migraines, back pain and tension headaches.
Decreases in blood pressure. Some people experience the immediate benefit of lower blood pressure when they meditate, which also helps to support heart health.
Bring emotions into balance. When you feel the joy of meditation, emotions like greed, jealousy and anger magically seem to drift away.
If you haven’t tried meditation yet, just give it a few minutes – you’re likely to be pleasantly surprised at the amazing changes you’ll feel, immediately!
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://bigthink.com/ideafeed/meditations-immediate-benefits
http://www.american.edu/cas/psychology/clinical-research/upload/article-Meditation-Tanner-Haaga-2.pdf
http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2FBF00845519?LI=true#page-1
http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-16388/9-things-youll-notice-after-meditating-for-just-1-minute.html
http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-8171/5-benefits-of-a-10-minute-meditation-practice.html
