Meditation Information

What is meditation?

Meditation is the practice of the mind and helps you make sure that your mind is synchronised with the rest of the body, the surroundings of the body, and the spirit. There are a multitude of processes which it consists of but it is ultimately very simple to follow. Meditation has been in existence since ancient times and many prayers and rituals include meditation as an important part of them.

History of Meditation

The art of meditation has been a part of numerous cultures and religions with the oldest references to the act being found in the Hindu Vedas. The practice became more popular and gained importance in the states of China as well. Pali Canon regards the act of meditating as a spiritual exercise and a step towards the salvation humans seek.

Meditation was not only limited to Hinduism and Buddhism but also found its place in Islam. The practice of Dhikr in the religion involves the repetition of the 99 names of god. This practice has been in existence since the ninth century. In the twelfth century, the practice of Sufism came into being and included several meditation techniques which were specific to each chant.

Christianity also included meditation sans the chanting and incorporation of additional physical actions or any kind of posture. The practice has been a part of many other religions like Jainism, Sikhism, and Judaism as well.

Benefits of Meditation

The act of meditating has several benefits associated with it. These advantages have been scientifically proven and experienced by many who practice it on a regular basis. What are the benefits?

Meditation causes happiness – it has been scientifically proven that a person who meditates frequently is happier than an average person because they have lower levels of anxiety, depression, and stress. Meditation also increases the cultivation and growth of positive emotions in the mind which causes the person to feel much happier and livelier.

Meditation improves the brain – your brain is deeply affected by the practice of meditation and in good ways. Meditation increases the amount of gray matter in your brain which is a major component of the central nervous system. Not only this, meditation also enhances the ability of the brain to pay attention with enhanced focus, and allows the person to regulate their emotions better.

Meditation improves overall health – with regular meditation, you can enhance the immunity of your body. In other words, your body's immune system will function better through the practice of meditation. It has also been found that meditation decreases pain and enhances the positive feelings in the body.

Further Information

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meditation