Meditation is medicine. It’s an ancient practice that modern science has proven to increase gray matter in the brain, establish new neural pathways, and can even help the body and mind deal with issues that plague us. It can be great to treat overthinking, sleep, energy, and motivational issues. Cultivating mindfulness can get us to the point where we don’t have to feel controlled by our emotions, but rather see our emotions as a guide.

Mindful magazine offers a rich mindful meditation resource for free at their website. Below are some of their suggestions:

How to meditate

“How do you learn to meditate? In mindfulness meditation, we’re learning how to pay attention to the breath as it goes in and out, and notice when the mind wanders from this task. This practice of returning to the breath builds the muscles of attention and mindfulness.”

Practicing meditation is not something that can be learned overnight. Like riding a bicycle, it is a skill that takes time. While meditating, it is normal for the mind to wander. We can use our breath as an anchor to bring ourselves back to the here and now. By paying attention to our breath as thoughts arise, we can learn how to return and be in the present moment.

Why meditate?

“While meditation isn’t a cure-all, it can certainly provide some much-needed space in your life. Sometimes, that’s all we need to make better choices for ourselves, our families, and our communities. And the most important tools you can bring with you to your meditation practice are a little patience, some kindness for yourself, and a comfortable place to sit.”

By practicing meditation, we train our minds to view ourselves and the world in a new light. Practicing meditation can have long lasting benefits.

5 reasons to meditate

Connect with your body
Reduce stress
Improve emotional regulation
Improve memory and mental clarity
Reduce daydreaming / circling thoughts (ruminations)

Want to learn how to meditate and be more mindful? MWCA has two upcoming group classes that can help you cultivate mindful awareness through in-class and at-home exercises, educational presentation and discussion around our nervous systems and guided meditation.