Five Benefits of Daily Meditation – Psychological and Emotional Benefits
February 25, 2015
Most people don’t know how to, or have perhaps forgotten what it really feels like to relax! This is because we live in a society of over stimulation and many of us have our Mudula-Oblangata (the fight or flight part of our brains) stuck in overdrive. We may overreact to the simplest of things. In fact, this is the subject of my presentation, “How to Become the Positive Change You Wish to See in Your Life!” So how can we cope?
Daily meditation gives us a direct experience of what it feels like to be totally relaxed, both physically and emotionally. It helps us turn off that fight or flight response. This form of relaxation is automatic and cumulative, resulting in a calmer demeanor during our daily activities and leads to more balanced emotions. (See Five Benefits of Daily Meditation – Physical Benefits)
Studies show that stress is very damaging and affects our psychological as well as physical health. Meditation can help. Over the past 40 years, more than 350 published research studies have documented the positive effects of the TM technique. Research findings include:
- 40-55% reduction in symptoms of PTSD and depression
- 42% decrease in insomnia
- 30% improvement in satisfaction with the quality of life
- 25% reduction in levels of plasma cortisol, the stress hormone
The emotional benefits of meditation can include:
Gaining a new perspective on stressful situations
- Building skills to manage your stress
- Increasing self-awareness
- Focusing on the present
- Reducing negative emotions
In addition, by turning inward we have an opportunity to observe not just our physical bodies, but also our mental and emotional states as well. We can connect with a deep wisdom and light within.
Overcome anxiety and gain strength and resilience from within.
When we meditate, anxiety is transcended as the mind accesses inner reserves of energy, creativity and intelligence. One comes out of meditation feeling refreshed, rejuvenated. Worries are less. Mind and emotions are clearer and we feel more at ease. Life itself is more fulfilling.
As you may know, because of growing up in an abusive and violent household, my life was filled with stress and anxiety, fear and depression. When I learned to meditate 40 years ago, after the first session, I went to visit my sister and she immediately wanted to know what I had been doing. She noticed that I seemed so much more relaxed, not my usual nervous, uptight, depressed self. This was only the first day of my mediation experience!