Meditation

Definition

Meditation is a practice where an individual uses techniques such as mindfulness, or focusing the mind on a particular object, thought, or activity to train attention and awareness, achieving a mentally clear and emotionally calm and stable state.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Meditation is a mind and body practice that has a long history of use for increasing calmness and physical relaxation, improving psychological balance, coping with illness, and enhancing overall well-being. It involves methods such as focused attention, quiet location, a comfortable posture, and open attitude towards distractions to focus attention or increase awareness of the present moment.

Benefits

• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Promotes emotional health
• Enhances self-awareness
• Lengthens attention span
• May reduce age-related memory loss
• Can generate kindness
• May help fight addictions
• Improves sleep
• Helps control pain
• Can decrease blood pressure

Examples

• Mindfulness meditation
• Transcendental meditation
• Guided meditation
• Zen meditation
• Tai Chi

Additional Information

• Effects: Meditation affects the body and mind by reducing levels of stress hormones, slowing breathing rate, and improving cognitive functions. It activates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping the body to rest and recover.

Related Terms

• Mindfulness
• Breathing exercises
• Yoga
• Stress management
• Relaxation techniques

References

• Meditation: In Depth - National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
• Mindfulness meditation improves cognition: Evidence of brief mental training