Feelings such as anxiety, stress and exhaustion often manifest themselves physically, causing your muscles to feel tense or sore. Alternative medicinal practices like meditation and yoga focus on the connection between the mind and the body and work to balance them with deep breathing and quieting your thoughts. According to MayoClinic.com, utilizing these methods can help calm both your body and mind and enhance your overall sense of well-being.
Significance
According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, the practice of balancing the mind to treat illnesses in the body dates back to the beginning of the first millennium, when it was used in both traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. In the 21st century, these methods continue to be prevalent in meditation and yoga, practices that require concentrated breathing, banishing scattered thoughts and focusing your attention on the present, all of which can enhance your overall mental and physical health.
Benefits
The benefits of meditation and yoga often last long after your session is complete. According to MayoClinic.com, meditating can help you lower your stress levels, gain new perspectives, increase your self-awareness, allow you to focus on the present and get rid of negative thoughts and emotions. It may also help with anxiety, asthma, cancer, depression, fatigue, sleep disorders and other health problems.
Types
There are multiple types of meditation, and you can practice them either on your own or in a guided group class. One example is mantra meditation, for which you repeat one calming word while sitting still and breathing deeply. Many types of yoga exist as well, and each includes components of meditation while linking breath with the physical movements known as asanas. The intensity of the movements will depend on the level of the class and your physical abilities. Discuss which type is best for you with a licensed instructor or health care provider before beginning your practice.
Considerations
Though yoga and meditation may benefit a variety of health conditions, they are not intended to replace more traditional methods of treatment. Do not stop taking your medication or begin any physically demanding practices without first asking your doctor if you are healthy enough to do so. Also keep in mind that learning how to meditate and quiet the mind may take time. If you find yourself getting frustrated, try playing quiet music or changing your location. Not everyone will like every type of meditation or yoga. Keep trying different methods until you find the one that works for you and leaves your mind and body feeling the most balanced.
