Benefits of meditation

Many people who meditate regularly may know the benefits of meditation as far as their spiritual well-being is concerned. People commonly use their time to meditate to help them stay calm and focused and to promote a feeling of relaxation. However, there are many health benefits of meditation that may go unrecognized.

The general affect of this practice on the human body is beneficial to the individual. One of the most outstanding benefits of meditation is relaxation. Studies show that stress and anxiety can lead to health problems. If an individual takes time to meditate on a regular basis he will feel relaxed and calm.

The benefits of meditation involve lower levels of blood lactate which is connected with the reduction of the number of panic attacks in the individual. People who suffer from panic attacks can reap the benefits of meditation that promote relaxation as well as chemical balances that help regulate the nervous system and reduce stress.

People experiencing great periods of stress including life changing episodes like the loss of a loved one or a divorce can use meditative practices to help cope with their distress.
Some attribute this to one of the benefits of meditation that involves an increase of serotonin production in the brain. Elevated serotonin levels are known to help elevate mood. Too little serotonin in a person’s system can lead to conditions like depression, insomnia and obesity.

Meditative practices are known to slow the individual’s heart rate while increasing blood flow. These are two of the benefits of meditation that can help a person bring his blood pressure rate back to normal with repeated practice. The increase in blood flow along with the slower heart rate serves to lower blood pressure.

Researchers also suggest that some of the benefits of meditation include an individual’s ability to fend off illnesses including cancer. These studies recognize that the meditative process produces cells that the body uses to kill bacteria, viruses and even cancer cells. These benefits of mediation often go unnoticed by the general public but they are quite important.

I know the benefits of meditation first hand because I started engaging in the process while trying to recuperate from a car accident. I suffered from severe lower back pain and muscle spasms. These symptoms were accompanied by debilitating headaches as well as weight gain and depression.

After a few months of following meditative routines each and every day I made a full recovery. I also notice that I have an easier time getting through the cold and flu season if I meditate on a regular basis. My experience may not be scientific proof of the benefits of meditation but it is enough for me to continue the practice.