Few people would dispute that we are living through a high-stress time, and that can take a toll. We are built to adapt to change. The body has a ‘stress response system’ by which we manage our energy to respond to demands. But when demands are too much, the system can become overloaded, which can cause widespread damage to emotional, physical, and social health.
Managing how we respond to demands and taking some simple steps to care for our ‘stress-response’ system can be wonderfully helpful. Regular exercise, connecting with friends, setting aside time to recreate, and kindling positive thoughts and emotions, are all proven to be effective in building resilience and preventing ill effects from stress overload. Another tool that can help is taking time, even a few minutes a day, to practice meditation and or relaxation.
Meditation can bring about a foundation of calm from which we can better respond to the change and demands we face during stressful times. It builds our reserves, helps us relax, and improves our ability to cope. In the long run it improves both mood and health.
Types of meditation can be practiced just about anywhere and even during busy times. While there are many ways to meditate, common characteristics of most meditation include a focused attention, relaxed breathing, and an open non-judgmental attitude toward self. There is no one right way to meditate, but experimenting with different ways of relaxing, and practicing what seems to fit best, is a good start. Here is a link to more information that can help you get started or inspire you to recommit to practice.
I’m sure there are many meditators out there in the EX Community and I would invite others to comment on their method and experience?
Michael V. Burke, Ed.D
Program Director and NDC Counselor/ CTTS
