I was inspired to create the Essential Being Meditations for anyone who was looking to start a mediation practice, or who has one, but doesn't always have the time to take more than 5 - 10 minutes a day to fit meditation into their schedule. Below, I've added information about what mediation is and how it can benefit you. Namaste, ~Lisa "Life isn't as serious as the mind makes it out to be." — Eckhart Tolle, Contemporary Spiritual Teacher Although meditation is a seemingly daunting idea to practice and master it is truly one of the most rewarding and life changing activities that anyone can explore and ultimately use to expand their life experience. Below you will find the definition of meditation, a discussion of the many benefits of using meditation in your everyday life and then a description of a few different meditation techniques. Meditation – Definition What it isn’t… It’s not a religion It’s doesn’t require special skills or talents or equipment It doesn’t require a lot of time each day It doesn’t make your problems go away You don’t have to quit wanting things or always think positive It’s not self-centered to meditate; you’ll just get to know yourself better What it is… Meditation – Has been around for thousands of years Meditation and medicine come from the same Sanskrit root word meaning: to take the measure of; and to care for Definition To ponder, to contemplate, being in the moment, focusing the mind and going beyond it How does it work? Recent scientific studies have proven that meditation can bring about significant physiological changes in the brain that translates into improved health, mood and behavior. In 2010 a Harvard University and Massachusetts General study concluded that after an eight-week period meditators showed growth in the hippocampus, where memory and learning happen, and shrinkage in the amygdala, where stress levels are measured. Quieting our minds allows us to transcend the reptilian brian and tap into the prefrontal cortex – where we experience joy, creativity, innovation, love and compassion for others. Technically speaking, meditation decreases stress-induced cortisol secretion that allows for the elevation of BDNF, brain-derived neurotrophic factor that facilitates neurogenesis and ultimately increases brain gray matter density – which is responsible for high-level information processing. Benefits of Meditation – Physical, Psychological & Spiritual Prevention – Decreases risk factors for: Heart disease Stroke High blood pressure Obesity Healing – Helps the body and mind to heal naturally by increasing serotonin levels and reducing blood lactate levels Enhances the immune system Slows the aging process Decreases pain levels in the body Lessens depression, headaches and insomnia Improves breathing function with increased lung and heart efficiency Reduces anxiety attacks Clarity - Practiced regularly – achieve a higher state of consciousness Scientifically proven positive psychological changes occur to the brain Gain control over a hyperactive state of mind Fewer moments of sluggishness, drowsiness and haziness Increased levels of concentration Energy – Increased levels of energy, strength and vitality Dramatically builds self confidence and self esteem Improves decision-making and problem solving Helps resolve phobias and fears Peace – Achieve a sense of inner peace, happiness and creativity Helps to develop intuition You become a more compassionate human being, especially toward yourself Types of Practices Concentration – Focus on an object, your breath, a mantra, prayers, visualization Contemplation – Being aware of thoughts or images, being mindful Expressive – Walking, Dance, Chanting, Yoga, Running, Showering Who Practices Began as Spiritual Practice – Christian, Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic, Taoist 1950’s introduced as a practice for stress reduction, relaxation and self- improvement Over 20 million US adults meditate – per the most recent census statistics How to get started Make a commitment to yourself Choose a place where you won't be disturbed and you feel safe What to wear - anything comfortable Consistent time Posture – legs, back, arms/hands, head, eyes, jaw – be comfortable Always remember, you can start over, your next breath, your next session or even tomorrow Practice mini moments of mindfulness throughout the day Keep a journal Guided Meditation Listen to a CD or click here Relax and go within The more comfortable you are, the deeper you can go Silent Meditation Many, many different techniques Focus on your breath Release and repeat