Meditation “mindfulness ” Or Mindfulness
This term has been defined in different ways in the writings dealing with this theme, but all definitions more or less agree on two aspects:
Meditate
Mindfulness meditation should not be confused with meditation related to religious practices. What is the difference ?
Meditation related to Buddhism and other religions requires concentration on one’s breathing and has to do with a mantra that is repeated over and over in order to achieve some type of spiritual enlightenment.
In contrast, mindfulness mental exercise requires being attentive and lucid. You have to adopt an uncritical posture with the objective of being the most aware of your thoughts to avoid feeling fogged by them, and in this way, to be able to better maneuver them.
It takes effort but is worth it
To achieve a state of mindfulness, it is important to take the time to train your mind. Many people take classes to learn techniques related to mindfulness.
Typically, classes consist of several group sessions, averaging two hours, over 8 weeks.
It is not a magic wand that works immediately, but the more you force yourself to reach it, the more you will be able to perceive the good results.
The reason some people spend a lot of time on this skill is because it has a positive effect on hypertension, heart disease, and chronic pain.
It also increases your concentration and helps overcome depression, anxiety and addictions.
Evidence
When we see all the benefits of mindfulness meditation, we may think it is too good to be true.
Is there really any evidence that it works? Well yes !
According to the website bemindful.co.uk, several clinical studies have produced the following results: 70% reduction in anxiety and a gradual reduction in anxiety for up to 3 years after taking these courses.
There has also been a decrease in doctor visits and an increase in disease-fighting antibodies.
Other studies have shown that people get better quality sleep and have noticed noticeable improvements in conditions like fibromyalgia and psoriasis.
Dr. Timothy A. Pychyl, who conducted a study on the effects of mindfulness says the practice can help ward off procrastination.
Professor Mark Milliams from the University of Oxford explains (in a video from the bemindful.co.uk website) how mindfulness meditation helps control stress and thus makes us feel less tired, overworked or irritable. .
Williams is exhibiting something very surprising. When we are under constant pressure, to run to do a thousand and one things, we experience the same emotional response as if we were running away from a predator.
It sabotages our ability to focus and get on with our tasks.
He also says that mindfulness helps us appreciate the things we are doing and find peace in this hectic world.
In this way, we get better concentration and better memory.
Image of Hugh Bell
