Staying Mindful Through Meditation

Practicing meditation offers various benefits, such as lowered stress and anxiety. The internet offers easy access to start meditation.

Haley Aitken

Meditating can people relax and take a deep breath when needed. It may also help prevent stress and anxiety.

Meditation is the act of deeply focusing for a period of time in order to relieve stress and practice concentration. Meditation is practiced in various religions such as Buddhism, but still offers potential benefits that may be helpful for anyone no matter their religion.

Meditation is known for possibly reducing stress. According to PubMed Central, a database from the National Institutes of Health, meditation moderately decreases psychological stress. Junior Ngoc Tran, who learned about meditation through her Buddhist religion, meditates when she feels stressed out about school. 

“Meditating has really helped me calm down and take a breath,” Tran said. “I just need to stop thinking and have time for myself.”

If someone wants to start practicing meditation, it may be easier to try guided meditations, which is when a narrator guides participants in a meditation session. Tran uses Headspace and Youper, two mindfulness apps, to help her meditate for five to ten minutes when necessary. People can also access guided meditations on Youtube and Spotify. 

Meditation advances emotional health, which can assist with promoting a positive mindset. In another study conducted by PubMed Central, it was found that depression decreased in around 4,600 adults when they meditated. Sophomore Paytin Rasmussen has practiced meditation for around a year after her doctors recommended it. 

“Since I started meditating, I’ve noticed a boost in my mood,” Rasmussen said. 

Meditation may also be used for medical purposes, as Rasmussen has experienced.

“[Meditation] helps with my auto immune deficiencies,” Rasmussen said. “My overall health has been shifted from bad to a lot better.” 

Despite the various health advantages, a small percentage of people meditate, according to an Instagram poll. Out of 63 participants, only nine of them, practiced meditation. 

Individuals who practice meditation may experience reduced stress, a more positive mood and medical advantages. With the efficiency of guided meditations offered online, meditation is more accessible than ever and may be a valuable way to relieve stress.