Prolonged states of stress cause damage to every part of the body. Meditation is an antidote to stress because it effects the body in the exact opposite way that stress does. It restores the body to a calm state, helping the body to repair itself, and preventing new damage resulting from the physical effects of stress.
When practicing meditation, heart rate and breathing slow down, blood pressure normalizes, and the body uses oxygen more efficiently and perspires less. The adrenal glands produce less cortisol, our mind ages at a slower rate and our immune function improves. Our mind also clears and our energy and creativity increases. People who meditate regularly find it easier to give up smoking, drinking and drugs.
For meditation to be effective, it is necessary to have at least 15 to 20 distraction-free minutes to spend per session; longer meditation sessions are not recommended for beginners. It is helpful to have silence and privacy, but more experienced meditators can practice meditation anywhere.
Some writers, including some healthcare professionals, suggest that meditation can be learned without a teacher, for example from books or CDs. Others recommend starting any meditation technique that can be found in the media. Our mind and body are very important, however, and should not be influenced by anybody who is not a professional teacher of meditation.
The meditation technique is a simple, natural technique that is practiced twice a day, sitting comfortably with eyes closed. The technique allows the mind and body to experience a unique state of deep rest. This deep state of rest allows the body to throw off deeply rooted and accumulated stress, reducing anxiety, depression, worry, insomnia and fatigue in a completely natural way. Most importantly, unlike other techniques, this form of meditation does not require concentration and contemplation making it simple and effortless.
Such meditation can also bring us spiritual development naturally because, in the most settled state of the mind, we can effortlessly tune in to the laws of nature. Many people experience a more stable state of mind and high spirits after the practice of meditation. How quickly this is experienced depends on the state of the nervous system.
Also, please remember that natural meditation is not only for monks or lonely people. It is for people who wish to establish and maintain a string connection with the world of activity, to have better relationships with other people and themselves.
Disclaimer
The information in this article should not be considered as medical advice. It is not meant to treat, diagnose or cure any ailment, or prescribe any medication. Always check with your physician before taking any products or following any advice you have read.