The practice of meditation is thousands of years old, with origins beginning in India and the Far East. The term meditation is a derivative from meditatum, a Latin word that means ‘to ponder.’
Although it was initially a religious and spiritual practice, meditation can be for anyone in all walks of life. It is particularly beneficial for healing and bringing peace of mind and clarity.
Healing oneself is the first step to being able to help others to heal. For many, developing a meditation practice can be an integral part of that healing journey.
For parents with children suffering from mental health problems or substance abuse issues, meditation can be particularly beneficial, bringing tranquility and a sense of calm during challenging times.
The Benefits Of Meditation
Meditation is a mind-body practice that enables a person to find serenity and relaxation and to help them focus on the triggers that may lead to problems such as stress, anxiety, or depression. While meditation can not solve those issues, it can help us think more clearly and show us the light at the end of the tunnel.
Feelings of stress and being overwhelmed are normal reactions to challenges or threats identified by our central nervous system. Simple things like running late for work to more far-reaching situations that we perceive to endanger our health (or the health of loved ones) can cause stress. Under normal circumstances, our bodys’ metabolism returns to normal after a stressful episode has abated. However, if stressful situations continue, it can result in physical, mental, or emotional strain or tension. One way to alleviate mental stress is through meditation.
Here are some of the benefits of meditation:
- Look at stressful situations differently and gain new perspectives.
- Build skills to manage your stress and reduce anxiety and depression.
- Raise your self-awareness and improving mindfulness.
- Allow us to focus on the present.
- Can banish negative emotions.
- Provide you with quality time on your own.
- Increase imagination and creativity.
- Help to increase patience and tolerance.
- Help manage chronic pain.
- Improve sleep patterns.
- May reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Anyone Can Practice Meditation
There are also many myths and misconceptions about meditation: it is too difficult, time-consuming, and requires a great deal of concentration. The truth is, meditation comes in many different forms and can be practiced almost anywhere, for as little as five minute intervals at various times throughout the day.
Meditation is inclusive to everyone, and practice can take place anytime or anywhere, including:
- The local park or forest trail when out walking or hiking.
- Riding on the bus or as a passenger in a car.
- On your lunch break, coffee break, or a quiet space at work.
Meditation For Children
Meditation can help us achieve peace of mind and add focus to our lives. It has also proven to be of considerable benefit to children experiencing mental health issues. Studies have shown that meditation has positive outcomes for children diagnosed with PTSD, autism, depression, and anxiety disorders. Exercising the mind and body can be helpful for children struggling to cope with everyday stressors and the challenges of life.
For parents who already enjoy healing through meditation, practicing with their children can also be a good bonding exercise for bringing families closer together. Meditation is a simple act of self-care with incredible health rewards that can benefit you and your children for many years to come.
Additional sources:
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF00845519?LI=true#page-1
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/410453
https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/use-meditation-children-mental-health-issues
