Your Brain and Body on Meditation

With so much bombarding our brains right now, I'm sure that finding time to relax is at the bottom of your to-do list! However, studies are showing if indeed a 5-30 minute mediation can be carved into your schedule, not only will your focus improve and your mood shift in a positive way, your body's defense (the immune system) will strengthen. When we engage in meditation, areas of the brain such as the prefrontal cortex, the right anterior insula, and right hippocampus are stimulated. These areas of the brain are the command center for our immune system, therefore when positively stimulated, our immune system strengthens. Additionally, meditation increases the CD-4 cells, which are the helper cells of the immune system. The CD-4 cells relay signals to other cells throughout the body, prompting cells to destroy infections.

Are you ready to strengthen your mind and body??

Let the meditation begin:

1. Sit in a comfortable position, back long and shoulders supported.

2. Begin to breathe in, preferably through the nostrils. Feel your belly rise, ribs expand and a slight movement in your collarbones and shoulders.

3. As your breathing pattern steadies, shift your awareness to the movement of your breath. Focus on the air flowing in and out of your nostrils or the lifting and falling of your belly. Select which focus resonates best for you.

4. Maintain your focus on the your breathing. If your mind begins to wander, bring your attention back to your breath. Do this as many times as you need.

5. Begin with 5 minutes daily and slowly increase the duration, until you can sit for 30 minutes daily.

This is something new for you so be patient and kind with yourself. Remember, there is no such thing as good or bad meditation. Your brain and body will thank you for any amount of meditation you give itl!!

Stay Well,

Erin