A little nag about the benefits of meditation!
Those of you who have read my blogs or have had personal answers from me will know how often I mention the word ‘relaxation’. I do feel I sometimes sound like a nag but relaxation is so, so important in the menopause. We know that adrenal stress, physical stress and emotional stress can all impact and worsen menopausal symptoms, but most women in this busy world want a quick and easy fix.
Having to take 30 minutes out of an already jam-packed day can seem impossible: where DO you fit it in? I find that for me an evening relaxation or meditation fits best into my schedule. I do it after my meal and chores but before settling down for the night. It relaxes me, allows me to let go of the tensions of the day, gives me inspiration and aids a good night’s sleep.
Imagine my surprise and glee to read that the effects of relaxation/meditation on health have been researched: I was right!! Researchers found that meditation/relaxation supports immune function, alleviates insomnia, relieves depression and can help to reduce blood pressure. And… very importantly for menopausal women, it reduces cortisol, which is known as a stress hormone. Great stuff for just 30 minutes a day!
For those of you who think this is too difficult to do, please think again, it really is easy and the benefits are so great. All you need is 30 minutes a day; some place where you can be undisturbed; and some relaxation/meditation music. You can order lovely CDs/downloads for practically nothing from Amazon, and you can either use relaxation music or guided meditations. For those of you who have not done this before the guided ones are the best as they help to stop your mind wandering over to worries or stresses. And that’s it! Do let me know how you get on.
If you wish to read more of this study please see “Meditation boosts genes that promote good health” Andy Coghlan, New Scientist, 5/2/13, newscientist.com
