There are many more people turning to meditation today than there have been in the past. Back in the 60’s and 70’s, people that meditated were known as free spirits or hippies! Today there is documented proof that there are many benefits to regular meditation. As a result, there are many more people using meditation to reduce their stress and help them relax and focus.

Not only can meditation reduce stress and help us relax; according to an article published in the May 5, 2011 issue of MIT (Minnesota Institute of Technology), it can also help us deal with chronic pain. Studies mentioned in the article stated that regular meditation can help relieve sufferers of chronic pain by controlling brain waves called alpha rhythms. This was achieved after only an eight week period!

Some of the other benefits of meditating on a daily basis include:

• Reduced anxiety attacks
• Increased Energy so that you can start each day with enthusiasm
• Helps Reduce Heart Disease by helping to keep your blood pressure normal
• Aids in the Control of Chronic Pain, including back and joint problems
• Helps to keep Blood Pressure Normal
• Helps with Weight Loss
• Helps to Build Self Confidence
• Increases exercise tolerance
• Helps to control chronic diseases like allergies and arthritis
• Reduces Pre-menstrual Syndrome symptoms
• Helps shorten post-operative healing times
• Enhances your immune system resulting in fewer colds and flus
• Helps you control your own thoughts
• Helps you focus & concentrate
• Increases creativity
• Helps in quitting smoking, alcohol addiction

If you meditate daily, I’m sure that you will begin to feel calmer and in control. Your ability to concentrate will be far greater. You won’t feel stressed about things and you’ll feel more peaceful and relaxed. You’ll be able to enjoy life and things that used to irritate you, like the person in the express checkout line with one more product than is allowed, will no longer be as irritating. These are only some of the benefits of meditating. There are hundreds of reasons why you should practise this on a regular basis.

The Best Part? Meditation is FREE! You don’t need any special equipment, and although it does take practice, it’s really not that hard to learn. It doesn’t take up a lot of time, 10 to 20 minutes a day is all you need. And keep in mind that meditation has NO negative side effects unlike prescription drugs or some natural remedies.

Given that there really isn't anything negative about meditation, but everything points to it being beneficial to you, are you asking yourself why you’re not fitting a daily session into your schedule? If not, you should be!