We are indeed faced with many new challenges these days. Learning to cope with all of these unsolicited changes in our lives and their domino consequences is of paramount importance to our emotional and physical health. The greatest threat to our well-being is not the turmoil itself, but rather our thoughts about it.
Coming to terms with turmoil leads to discovery. Such challenges can be an exercise in personal growth and well-being. “It is in the turmoil of chaos, we discover what, if anything, we are.” (Orson Scott Card)
Neuro-scientific research shows that people who meditate feel more positive about life than those who have not developed a daily practice. Meditators are less apt to worry and experience fewer negative emotions, have more control over their feelings and can rebound faster when dealing with life’s emotional and physical challenges. Studies indicate a daily practice can create stronger immune systems and the benefits of meditation to our health transpire at a cellular level.
Because Mindfulness meditation has been proven to reduce the cortisol levels in our body, it acts to alleviate symptoms related to stress which can eventually lead to post-traumatic stress disorder, irritable bowel syndrome, and fibromyalgia, skin conditions, hypertension, insomnia, weight gain and other physical detriments affecting our health.
Now, more than ever before, we need to care enough about ourselves- to be nice to ourselves-which often more difficult than being kind to others. One of the best ways you can serve yourself and others during these trying times is to at least investigate Mindfulness.
It is with a daily practice of Mindfulness Meditation, we can overcome the residual effects of stress, anxiety, worry, self-doubt, depression, frustration, that may creep into our moment by moment existence. Even at a bare minimum of 5 to 10 minutes daily, we can circumvent placing our bodies and minds at such dis-ease.
“When you commune with your ever-present inner calm, you are released from the madness and pain of all outer turmoil.” ― Bryant McGill