9 Ways Meditation Could Change Your Life
Meditation was developed as an ancient Eastern practice, yet it can transform your fast-paced “modern life.” Since 500 B.C., during time of Buddha, who is considered “one of history’s major proponents of meditation,” (meditationcenter.com) this practice has spread and western studies have shown substantial physiological and psychological benefits. Meditation encourages a relaxed state, with a focus on deep breathing and clearing your mind of the chatter that may snowball on stressful and busy days.
According to Mayo Clinic meditation may help manage symptoms related to:
1- Anxiety and Depression
2- Cancer
3- Heart Disease
4- High Blood Pressure
5- Pain
6- Sleep Disorders
Other testimonials from practicing meditators show an increase in:
7- Connection to self and others
8- Creative thought
9- Inner Peace and Vitality
During this uneasy time, we can reach to practices like meditation to ease our stress and build our immunity. Meditation can be any length of time. It can be flexible to body position and geographic location. It is free. Simply schedule it into your day.
There are great apps like Insight Timer and Calm, that you can download to your phone to guide you through a variety of meditations.
You can learn a variety of meditation practices in a trusting environment with amazing meditation leaders by attending Above + Beyond Cancer’s Sitting Meditation Class on Tuesday nights from 7:30–8:30 pm at the Friends Meeting House, 4211 Grand Ave. Des Moines, IA. This class is free and open to the public, including cancer survivors, and caregivers and is offered in partnership with the Des Moines Meditation Group.
Our Mindfulness Cafe program is offered virtually via zoom on Fridays from 8:00–8:45 am. Check the website calendar for links and specific dates. All are welcome and encouraged to join!
For more information contact mary@aboveandbeyondcancer.org about how to get involved with support from Above + Beyond Cancer.
Namaste-
Mary Van Heukelom, Program Director and Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer for Above + Beyond Cancer
