Meditation

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Meditation is a self-directed practice for relaxing the body and calming the

mind. Most meditative techniques have come to the West from Eastern

practices but now can be found in all cultures of the world. During the past 15

years, it has been explored as a way of reducing stress on both mind and

body. Some studies have found that regular meditation reduces healthcare

use; increases longevity and quality of life; reduces chronic pain; reduces

anxiety; reduces high blood pressure; reduces serum cholesterol level;

reduces post-traumatic stress; reduces blood pressure; and lowers blood

cortisol levels initially brought on by stress. Here is a simple meditation

routine to try at home:

Sit comfortably with spine straight, feet flat on floor, arms loose with palms

facing up. Close your eyes and focus on your breathing pattern. Inhale

through your nose for a slow count of four then exhale through your nose for

the same count. On inhale, your abdomen should rise gently, then your chest.

Visualize your breath moving through your body, gently pushing away any

intruding thought. Try to do 15 inhales-exhales.