Asking “Why Meditation Matters?” is a deceptively simple question. Upon closer inspection, however, an individual may learn that meditation – though not intended to be cumbersome or difficult – actually takes some practice to master.

Meditation comes in many forms: walking meditation, breathing meditation, sitting meditation, standing meditation . . . but most types of meditation share the same goal: To focus an individual’s mind, reduce stress, and strengthen focus. Some other common benefits of meditation include:

• Confidence and self-control
• Inner certainty
• Ability to work and focus
• Relief from insomnia, high blood pressure
• Better personal relationships

Additionally, how a person meditates depends on the goals of the individual and the specific type of meditation that he or she sets for themselves. Some meditation may occur at home, while other meditations may occur in a group or during a class. Surprisingly, too, meditation can be while a person waits.

“Combat the tedium of waiting in line with a short meditation,” writes author Christina Rodenbeck. “Part of just ‘being’ is refraining from judging others. Think about it and you will realize that wherever you are, whatever you are doing, you spend a certain amount of energy assessing your surroundings, whether it involves the people, the sounds, and the objects and smells.”

Another way to put it, according to author Tessa Watt, is: “Instead of ‘reacting’ automatically, we can start to ‘respond’ more mindfully—less destructively, and more skillfully.”

Although an ancient practice, meditation, arguably, remains more relevant than ever. Many people are busy, stressed, and depressed. Although not a panacea, meditation can be helpful in combating the aforementioned problems. Many, many studies have been conducted that explore the physical and mental benefits of meditation.

Another reason why meditation matters is because of its ability to help individuals become more mindful. Although sometimes one may conflate “meditation” and “mindfulness,” they are not exactly the same thing. That said, however, it can be said that meditation is a practice and mindfulness is one of the outcomes.

To conclude, meditation can offer many benefits for those who are wiling to give it a try. A person’s physical and mental health as well as their overall wellbeing, can improve from meditation.

Ohm.

References:
Rodenbeck, C. (2016). Meditation for everyday living. Bounty Books, New York, NY.
Watt, T. (2012). Mindfulness. MJF Books, New York, NY.