Meditation: Benefits and Practices

This article was excerpted from this website:
http://www.alt-healthsearch.com/articles/view/meditation_benefits_and_practices/


"Meditation can be defined as an uninterrupted and intense contemplation or concentration on a specific subject or on nothing at all. The focus may be internal or external. The length of time spent meditating matters less than the control of breathing and, perhaps, the physical position one chooses. Some believe that meditation is the basis of spirituality, self knowledge, and wisdom, but many have very different ideas of not only the practice of meditation but its purpose, as well.

Benefits
No matter the definition, it is undeniable that meditation combats the stress of a very fast paced world. Learning to breath peacefully through meditation will not only allow you to relax but will also increase your mental clarity, focus, and awareness when you practice regularly.
Physiologically, meditation effects the body in many ways including:
+ Improves immune function + Slows rapid pulse + Slows rate of metabolism + Lowers blood pressure + Lowers risk of heart failure, attack, and disease
There are a variety of methods to choose in meditation technique, but all of them reduce stress and create positive physiological effects."

Read the rest of this article here:
http://www.alt-healthsearch.com/articles/view/meditation_benefits_and_practices/

Many of my patients report feeling as though they have entered a meditative state during acupuncture treatments. And, personally, I have experienced this! Acupuncture patients often naturally regulate their breathing. The movement of energy throughout the body becomes regulated through acupuncture point stimulation and the softened, regulated breath. During acupuncture, the body also releases endorphins and enkephalins-hormones which makes us feel good and relaxed. If you are feeling stressed take some time for an acupuncture visit. It works.

Posted by Juliette Aiyana, L.Ac.
www.amazinghealing.com/N-laughter.php