Dixya Poudel

In several high schools in the United States, students who misconduct are taught mindfulness practices. Those students who are in detention are introduced to meditation, mindfulness and yoga. And it has had extraordinary results as detention has halved and students are calmer, happier and more focused.

There was a point in world history when meditation, yoga and mindfulness were typically carried out through Asian nations. Now people all over the world are aware of such techniques which have gained tremendous momentum. As more and more people practice meditation and mindfulness along with yoga they find themselves grounded and composed.

Meditation is the practice of deep breathing with a focus on each breath and an awareness of the innermost thoughts. Further, mindfulness is a deep awareness of here and now. When combined together mindfulness and meditation becomes mindfulness meditation and is a powerful tool to gain mastery over one’s thoughts, emotions and feelings. It is about focusing on the inhalation and exhalation of breath while observing the thoughts swirling in the mind.

And it is known to increase feel-good hormones such as serotonin. As seen through the high schools in the US, students benefit greatly from mindfulness meditation. It enables them to excel at school while also improving their relationships, sleep patterns and mental health. Meditation is an age-old art that has multiple benefits. It doesn’t require much-the individuals primarily have to focus on their breathing. And it is proven to decrease stress levels. Today doctors prescribe mindfulness meditation along with yoga to lower stress levels to those susceptible.

As the world tends to focus outwardly, people are mostly consumed in a competitive job market. While they can’t avoid their responsibilities, they can instead channel their inner calm to take over the world. It is said that most of our battles are internal which is where meditation and mindfulness come in. Regular application of mindfulness meditation creates a sanctuary in our own minds. Once we learn to master fears, anxiety and worries, we are better able to confront lives’ difficulties.

If you are a novice at meditation, you might find the buzz around it quite daunting. However, it isn’t too intricate. Just carve out a space to meditate for at least ten minutes a day at first and gradually increase the time span. Settle in a comfortable space away from distractions, interruptions and clamor. Once settled, close your eyes and take deep breaths. Focus your mind in each inhalation and exhalation of breath. If your mind tends to wander, allow it but be aware of your thoughts and emotions. With each breath you will find yourself calmer. Mindfulness factors in by making us aware of the present and once we become deft in it, we will constantly live in the present.

Through meditation and mindfulness that are now scientifically proven to benefit our well-being, we can find inner happiness, peace and harmony. Today, there are apps and Zoom meetings where meditation is taught and is widely accessible through the internet. A few moments of deep breathing can have lasting impact on the overall mental health. Therefore, let’s not hesitate to create a space in our life where we take time to practice meditation and mindfulness. It will eventually echo on our lives with growth, joy and abundance.