Mindful Meditation

Mindful meditation, sometimes referred to as mindfulness meditation, is a type of meditation that focuses on living in the present moment, or a way of being, but not a technique itself.

Being mindful is described as being actively attentive or deliberately keeping something in mind.

The purpose of mindful meditation is to become conscious and alert as to what is going on in the present moment or to have a peaceful awareness of your body and feelings. It is not a time to focus on the past or think about the future.

Make note of every thought as it comes and goes regardless of what emotion it stirs within. You may have thoughts of a worry or a fear, or of hopes and dreams. Don’t ignore the thoughts or feelings or try to stifle them but rather simply notice and always stay in the present. A book such as The Silva Method: Tapping the Secrets of Your Mind for Total Self-mastery may be helpful for learning specific techniques.

Many meditations will focus on the breath. However with a mindfulness meditation, it is more common to be mindful and observant of everything that comes to our attention, as opposed to intentionally focusing on any one thing.

Research has shown that meditation helps to boost mood and immunity, alleviate chronic pain, anxiety, stress and improve heart health. In fact, any condition that is caused or worsened by stress can be eased through meditation.

The relaxation that is associated with meditation helps decrease metabolism, lowers the blood pressure and improves the heart rate. Muscle tension and tightness are also released with meditation.

There is evidence that people who meditate experience long-lasting changes that affect their attention, memory and learning.

Learning to meditate is not difficult to become skilled at but will take practice and discipline in order reach a relaxed state quickly and a deepening state of awareness. Practice a minimum of once daily and it is most desirable if you can do it more frequently throughout the day.

I was first introduced to the Silva method a number of years ago. Originally developed by Jose Silva more than 40 years ago, the Silva method teaches you to become more in tune with yourself and your surroundings.

According to their website, “The Silva Method is designed to elevate the creative powers of your mind by the use of visualization and imagination, positive thinking and meditation.” Learn more about the Silva method with Jose Silva's book: The Silva Method: Tapping the Secrets of Your Mind for Total Self-mastery.

Whether you are considering mindful meditation for pain management or to gain more clarity and awareness of your self, all research indicates that all forms of meditation can be a benefit to your health.

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