The Benefits Of Meditation And Mindfulness Training

By Jerry Nelson


Most everyone at one time or another has heard of being in the present moment or living in the now. Most often, this type of practice refers to Mindfulness Training. For, the practice is the psychological aspect of focusing on activities and actions in the present.

Most often, individuals whom wish to attain a mindful state in the moment use meditation as a tool to do so. For, regardless of a meditation schedule, individuals can practice meditation at any given time or place. Whereas, the concept of mindfulness is actually based on ancient Zen Buddhist and Tibetan meditation.

Whether used to treat anxiety, reduce stress or treat alcohol and drug addiction, the practice has often proved successful. In addition, some schools, hospitals, prisons, senior and veterans centers have also incorporated the practice into activities and medical appointments. Whether activities are focused on special needs children, athletic performance, weight management or healthy aging, practicing mindfulness in these and other areas can often be beneficial.

Clinical trials and studies have both shown mental and physical benefits of the practice in healthy adults, children and those whom are ill or injured. In addition, research studies have continuously shown positive results when it comes to the relationship between psychological health and mindfulness. One of the most interesting aspects of mindfulness is that the practice has been able to calm psychiatric disorders, including that of psychosis, which had previously been non-receptive to other forms of treatment.

Mindfulness is a practice which has also shown promise in eliminating other mental disorders through the elimination of rumination and worry. In addition, the development of conditions such as ADD, ODD, ADHD and other behavioral based disorders have been known to be halted when diagnosed early. While this is the case, individuals in these studies agreed to practice meditation and mindfulness on a regular basis and attend follow up sessions.

To get the most out of a meditative session, it is best to sit or lie down in a quiet room. Whether sitting in a chair with back support or sitting cross-legged, most individuals feel this is the best position for meditation. Whereas, there are a number of different methods individuals can use during the session which can help create a sense of mindfulness, these include breathing techniques, body scanning and mental exercises.

When in tune with breathing patterns, an individual can often focus more clearly on the present moment. Whereas, when using body scanning techniques, individuals are working in the moment though paying attention to sensations in different parts of the body. While these are often the most common, others focus on sounds, sensations, thoughts, feelings and actions during a session to help focus attention.

It is often recommended that newcomers to mindfulness and meditation begin with sessions of ten minutes or less per day. While this is the case, there are different types of meditation in which individuals attempt to clear the mind, contemplate and reflect on specific situations. Whereas, others prefer to sit outside in nature such as sitting by or in a creek, river or stream while allowing the sound of the running water to wash away any negative thoughts of experiences.




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