Meditation is a centuries old practice that is experiencing a renewed interest. In our chaotic lives, people are finding that meditation can help them relax and let go of the stress they feel. But in addition to helping to relieve stress, meditation can heal. That is right. You can actually help heal your body through meditation.

Meditation is the act of total body relaxation. It calms the mind and body and allows you to step back from the outside world and release the stress.  It is wonderfully refreshing and is a good thing to practice after a long day at work. Just spend about 15 minutes in quiet meditation and you will feel like a new person!

The health benefits of meditation are numerous. In addition to relieving stress, it can help lower your heart rate and blood pressure. This makes it a perfect thing to do after a particularly stressful day.  However, this practice can go even deeper and open up your mind so you can heal and recharge.  Here is a list of a few of the benefits you can receive from meditation.

Increased Mental Awareness– Because this practice relaxes your mind, you actually become more aware. You will find a renewed creativity and clearness of thought. It is good for creative people such as writers and designers to take a meditation break during the day. They will emerge with renewed creativity.

Freedom from Addictions– Many addiction treatment centers teach their patients to use meditation to help them overcome cravings. By using this practice addicts and alcoholics can find an inner peace that can help them break free from the powerful pull of addiction.

Increases the Power of Positive Thinking– when you focus on peace and total relaxation, you are more receptive to positive affirmations. In turn, these affirmations can help you become more self confident and sure of yourself.

Increases Spirituality– Many religions encourage meditation to increase spirituality. When you clear your mind you are more receptive to spiritual promptings. In addition, you become in touch with your own spirit and learn to have self respect.

Increases Mental Health- In addition to calming the body and spirit, meditation can help us conquer many health issues such as headaches and panic attacks.  Many times these ailments are the result of stress in our lives and meditation is a great stress reducer.

If you still aren't convinced that it is for you, try it and you will see. Use this basic meditation exercise.  Sit or lie down in a quiet, dim room. Empty your mind of all thoughts and just concentrate on deep breathing. Become focused on your breathing – don't let thoughts of work interfere.  You will find yourself entering a deep state of relaxation. In fact, don't be surprised if you fall asleep! That is okay – your body probably needs the rest.

The power of meditation isn't mysterious or strange. It is very real and beneficial in so many ways. There are many different ways to meditate and you don't have to follow a set program. The basic concept is to relax your mind and body, reconnect with your spirit and find peace.