I’m at my most favorite place to meditate! On the balcony overlooking the waters of Cancun. 

There are many ways to meditate, including focusing on a mantra or word like peace or love, or putting your attention on your breath as you breathe in and out.  There are also walking meditations, mindfulness meditations, prayerful meditations and recorded guided meditations.     

When first learning to meditate you may find peace and tranquility. Yet, if you are like most people, you may have runaway thoughts and feel fidgety.  Learning a form of meditation is worth the effort.  The journal Psychiatry Research, published a recent study on Neuroimaging, from Massachusetts General Hospital.  The results showed meditation-produced changes over time in the brain’s grey matter.  Studies have shown that those who meditate almost 30 minutes a day on average, for eight weeks, have measurable changes in brain regions associated with their memory, sense of self, empathy, and stress response.   

With practice, meditation can provide a sense of peacefulness and stillness.  It can increase creativity, wisdom, and awareness.  Other benefits documented by research include: stress reduction, improved sleep, reduced pain levels, lowered blood pressure, decreased anxiety and depression, and even improved relationships and job performance.   

Find a meditation that works for you.   Learn more by reading about meditation, taking a class or talking with people who meditate regularly.  Or just start on your own by sitting quietly for 5-10 minutes and gradually build up to 20-30 minutes. 

Love, Health & Happiness,

Phyllis