I used to imagine meditation as a bearded old man in a flowing white robe, sitting cross-legged atop a mountain and chanting, “Oooohhhmmmm.” Luckily, I learned that meditation can be for everybody, regardless of age or attire. It is a powerful tool for your mind, body and spirit.
Measurable biological changes happen when you meditate. It increases the neuroplasticity in the brain (remember learning that in the Intro page in your SelfCare for HealthCare™ guidebook?) Meditation helps the immune system, decreases the “fight or flight” stress response, and improves blood flow and digestion. It helps manage pain, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Meditation can help everyone.
While Buddhists are a familiar image of meditation, people of various faiths and even nonreligious employ the practice. Meditation is frequently mentioned in the Bible. Psalm 19:14 says, “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord.”
Some people like to sit in the typical cross-legged position, and others meditate while gardening, walking, or simple being still. Just sitting quietly and thinking of the beauty that is in front of you, knowing there is something bigger than yourself, that creates a stillness. It allows you to think about how your Creator has a plan for you, is involved with you, there is no need to be afraid.
To me, meditation and prayer are synonymous; they interweave with each other. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still and know that I am God.”
Be still. Know.
