Meditation

Meditation and the benefits of achieving an inner calm

Stress is everywhere!

Remember too that most stress in our lives today is mental or emotional. It only occasionally relates to the physical type that our adrenals prepare us for in 'fight or flight' syndrome. However, as our body does not differentiate, our mental stress often remains with no outlet and some doctors estimate that as high as 50-80% of physical illness is stress related. This is because the hormones released during stress put the body in a tense 'responsive' state. When this happens over and over again the body can remain in this state, eventually becoming worn down.

Meditation is rejuvenation

Meditation provides a way to centre the mind, stopping the constant mental dialogue with a single focus. It will give your brain space to rest, repair and grow. The overall benefits reach far beyond the brief time you set aside to meditate. You develop a growing inner ability to induce calm during stress, keeping the mind healthy. A healthy mind is a powerful ally in healing the body. The words meditation and medicine share the same latin root 'medicus' meaning 'to cure' and very originally 'to measure'. All have some aim to restore 'right inward measure'.

Some guidelines

If you have tried meditation, and are unable to stop the constant stream of thoughts in your head, don’t give up! You can acknowledge they are there but imagine yourself pushing each one outward to make a clearing. You could try concentrating on your breathing, or a visual object such as a candle flame to help focus. A guided meditation can also help focus your thoughts to one point. Even if you are not able to keep thoughts away, you are still giving yourself space to rest and rejuvenate. Remember that no matter how long it takes in learning to reach a quiet place at will, it is not time wasted. Each meditation takes you a little closer towards this goal.

Weekly guided meditations are run by Sharon Allison at Oak Practice
Please contact us or see our diary page for details