Meditation began as a spiritual practice for those striving to achieve enlightenment, inner peace and unity. It is a tremendously powerful form of self-discipline that results in absolute mastery of one's mental, emotional and physical aspects.
These days, few take time to think about meditation or exploring the world of spiritual enlightenment. But making time for this within a busy lifestyle pays incalculable dividends. Meditation helps an individual attain a life of peace in what seems like an unstable world. Meditation creates a greater simplicity and gives meaning to life. Meditation and yoga are both ways by which anyone can attain spiritual awareness. The key factor in the search for spiritual enlightenment is learning how to calm the mind and be still. Meditation is a critical factor on the journey to spiritual enlightenment. Practicing regular meditation brings calmness. Meditation gives one the key to master his or her mind and the power to overcome any tendency to become a slave to his or her thoughts.
An individual's interpersonal relationships improve when he or she begins to touch upon life's spiritual realms. Meditation can improve a person's mental and physical comfort. Contrary to common belief, one need not take time apart from work or other activity to practice meditation; being aware and in the moment, whatever one is doing, is meditation in itself.
Some of the benefits of meditation are:
€ Reduces stress and tension
€ Improves the immune system
€ Builds self-confidence
€ Enhances energy and strength
€ Lowers blood pressure
€ Sharpens the mind by gaining focus
€ Expands the mind though relaxation
€ Improves emotional stability
€ Increases concentration and strengthens the mind
€ Decreases any tension-related pain, such as tension headaches, ulcers, insomnia, muscle and joint problems
Other, perhaps even more striking benefits of meditation are those which take place in the mind. These can be at least equally as important as the benefits to one's physical well-being. The psychological benefits of meditation include improved creativity, learning ability and memory. Studies also show meditation creates an increase in overall happiness and emotional stability, while feelings of depression, anxiety and irritability tend to decrease.
Regularly practiced, the benefits of meditation will promote a sense of calm and control within you. You'll feel far more relaxed and happy. Your ability to concentrate will be greater. You'll feel more peaceful about everything, and you won't become stressed about things. One of meditation's greatest benefits is that you learn to €go with the flow€; things that once irritated you become simply insignificant.