Mental Health and Meditation

Meditation can often be seen as an intimidating practice, but it's a great mind-body medicine that has been used for centuries. There are many different types of meditation (breath, guided imagery, moving, etc.) the most familiar being mindfulness. This is "the awareness that emerges through paying attention on purpose, in the present moment." (Martin et al., 2022). Meditation has been proven to reduce symptoms in stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as improve overall emotional well-being.

Why Meditation?

Research has shown that meditation can help you become centered. It helps create a feeling of tranquility. This can include a sense of peace, balance, and calming effect.

Not only does meditation "wipe the slate clean" by reducing information overload in the moment, but it can also improve mood after the fact.

Benefits of Meditation

1

Reduces stress and depression

2

Relaxes the body & mind in the present moment

3

Management and reduction of anxiety

4

Improves overall concentration

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Helps manage symptoms of chronic conditions

(Ex. high BP, asthma, sleep , etc.)

6

Increases self awareness

Meditation improves many aspects of life. As studies show: Mindfulness meditation training reduces stress, regulates emotions, enhances self-acceptance and pursuit of life goals, promotes inner growth, and establishes good relationships with others is one of the potential mechanisms for enhancing individual subjective well-being and psychological well- being." (Liu & Lin, 2019)

Ways to Meditate

1 / Yoga or Tai Chi

These are both forms of moving meditation. For some, it is easier to relax & quiet the mind doing gentle movements. Getting into a flow state during either of these can be a great form of meditation.

2 / Breath work

Breath meditation is one of the simplest forms. It creates focus on the process of breathing in order to calm the nerves. Deep breathing also has many health benefits.

3 / Imagery

Guided imagery meditation often involves another person. Normally a health professional who takes you through a mental visual journey, using memories & mental images.

St. Martin, M. W., Vidic, Z., & Oxhandler, R. (2022). Exploring the impact of a mindfulness meditation class on

college student stress levels and quality of life. Journal of American College Health, ahead-of-print(-), 1-7. doi:10.1080/07448481.2022.2133962

Liu, W., & Lin, J. (2019). The role of meditation in college students' neuroticism and mental health. Translational

Neuroscience, 10(1), 112-117. doi:10.1515/tnsci-2019-0019