While mindfulness has its roots in Buddhist meditation, it is now widely accepted as a stress management technique due to the many positive effects it has on the mind and body. Mindfulness is used in a variety of settings including schools, prisons, hospitals, veteran programs, and beyond.
Studies have shown that practicing mindfulness, even for just a few weeks, can bring a variety of physical, psychological, and social benefits. Below are 5 reasons to incorporate mindfulness into your life.
1. Benefits our minds: Mindfulness increases positive emotions while reducing negative emotions and stress.
2. Positively changes our brains: Research has found that it increases density of gray matter in brain regions linked to learning, memory, emotion regulation, and empathy.
3. Helps regulate emotions. Those that practice mindfulness experience a decrease in emotional reactivity and an increase in cognitive focus.
4. Heightens ability to focus. Research suggest that mindfulness helps us tune out distractions and improves our memory and attention skills. It also improves our ability to recall information.
5. Increases relationship satisfaction. Research suggests mindfulness training makes couples more satisfied with their relationship, makes each partner feel more optimistic and relaxed, and makes them feel more accepting of and closer to one another.
The Meditation Tree is located in Los Angeles and provides exclusively online (ZOOM) classes utilizing slides, lecture and personal attention to help you learn the various facets of a Mindfulness Meditation practice. Having the guidance of an experienced teacher is the best way to understand and develop an effective practice. Both private and group classes are available online. More details are available at www.themeditationtree.com.
There are many possible benefits of mindfulness including lowering stress, improving emotional regulation, boosting cognitive abilities, and strengthening relationships. Research has also shown that mindfulness can lead to changes in the structure and function of the brain. If you set a goal to become more mindful, it can quickly become part of your daily routine. Consider giving it a try, and enjoy the long-lasting positive effects of mindfulness!