Meditation Benefits

Part of the ancient tradition of Buddhists and Tibetan monks, meditation is increasingly becoming a component of modern science and health and well-being regimens for millions. The Meditation Society of America defines meditation as "�a process that leads to a state of consciousness that brings serenity, clarity, and bliss" (What p. 1). One of the principle aims of meditation is to raise consciousness in the meditating individual, in order for connection of body and mind to the ultimate connectedness of all things in the universe to occur. Long shunned by the health professions as an ancient practice with little therapeutic value, modern science is rapidly growing to accept meditation for a number of proven health benefits. Debra Rubin notes that recent findings have shown that "�the regular practice of meditation changes the brain, in ways that foster a more positive emotional response to things" (p. 26).

This research will discuss a few different types of meditation and practice, including techniques and purposes of each. A following section will discuss a number of benefits that accrue from practicing meditation, including some significant new research findings that verify its beneficial properties. A conclusion will address the significance of meditation in contemporary society.

There are literally hundreds if not thousands of different types of meditation and practice techniques, from food meditations in

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at can be known about the object of their focus. If the individual focuses on peace, then they may think of everything that has ever been associated with peace in their life and everything that has ever been associated with disrupting peace in their life. In this deeper form of meditation, eventually the practitioner would connect the object of focus (i.e. peace) to "everything in the universe, because everything is in some way connected with peace" (Two p. 1). One we rid ourselves of the notion that our bodies or selves are different, we will be more enlightened, happier, and at one with everything in the universe. Benefits of Meditation Ever since scientists first began studying the practical health benefits of meditation in the 1970s, they recognized its capacity to decrease heart-rate, perspiration, and other stress-related symptoms in those practicing it. Today, scientists focus on the long-term benefits of meditation as well as its short-term impact. Richard Davidson is a neuroscientist who led studies conducted at the University of Wisconsin on meditation and its impact on neurology. Initial studies on Tibetan monks, who are considered the masters of meditation, revealed that certain areas of the brain are stre

Category: Psychology - M