IF YOU COULD:

If you found something that was scientifically proven to accomplish the following:

1.     Reduce stress

2.     Control anxiety

3.     Promote emotional health

4.     Enhance self-awareness

5.     Lengthen attention span

6.     Can generate kindness

7.     May help fight addictions

8.     Improve sleep

9.     Help control pain

10.  Decrease blood pressure

11.  Improve patience

12.  Relaxes your body

 Would you do it?

 This phenomenal practice is Meditation. It is the habitual process of training your mind to focus and achieve each of the elements above. Meditation is something everyone can do to improve their mental, physical and emotional health. There’s a great variety of styles, and you can do it anywhere, without special equipment or memberships.

 So, despite all of the benefits above, what are the excuses?

·      My Mind Keeps Wandering. Write down what it wandered to and gently return to focus.

·      Emptying my mind lets the devil in. 1. You are not emptying your mind - you are focusing your mind – focus on scripture.

·      I can’t achieve a state of perfect stillness. Few can. You can’t achieve big muscles the first time you go to the gym.

·      Don’t have Time. Review the benefits above and see if how you are using your time now provides similar benefit.

·      A Lack of Patience. Focus on what perfect patience would look/feel like.

·      Can’t Visualize. Close your eyes and imagine  lemon on a cutting board. You just visualized.

·      Keep Nodding Off. There are seven types of rest and then sleep. Sounds like you need rest.

·      Fear of the Unknown. 38 million people are practicing meditation regularly. Few side effects.

 So, how do you succeed?

• Consistency is Key: Nothing this good comes immediately. Meditate regularly, even if it's just for a short time.

• Be Patient: Deep meditation takes time and practice. 

• Don't get discouraged if your mind wanders.

• Experiment: Try different techniques to find what works best for you. There is a plethora of styles online.

• Avoid Distractions: Turn off your phone and other electronic devices although there are vibrational sounds and music that can aid.

• Relax Your Body: Pay attention to any tension in your body and consciously release it.

 Remember, the goal of meditation is not to empty your mind but to learn to observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment. With consistent practice, you can develop a deeper connection with yourself