Wednesday, June 5, 2019

The Benefits Of Mindfulness Training

By Jerry Nelson


Most people have heard the term living in the now or living in the present moment. In most cases, this refers to the concept of Mindfulness Training. For, mindfulness is the psychological process which focuses on bringing attention to actions and experiences going on in the current moment in time.

Most often, individuals whom wish to attain a mindful state in the moment use meditation as a tool to do so. For, regardless of a meditation schedule, individuals can practice meditation at any given time or place. Whereas, the concept of mindfulness is actually based on ancient Zen Buddhist and Tibetan meditation.

In the 1970s, a group of clinical psychologists started using the practice to treat psychological conditions such as anxiety, depression, stress, alcohol and drug addiction. As a result, a number of senior citizen centers, veterans halls, prisons, hospitals and schools now incorporate meditation into exercise and other routines. Whether part of an ongoing monthly calendar event or, a special event, these meditative sessions have shown promise when it comes to weight management, athletic performance, healthy aging and other areas.

Clinical trials and studies have both shown mental and physical benefits of the practice in healthy adults, children and those whom are ill or injured. In addition, research studies have continuously shown positive results when it comes to the relationship between psychological health and mindfulness. One of the most interesting aspects of mindfulness is that the practice has been able to calm psychiatric disorders, including that of psychosis, which had previously been non-receptive to other forms of treatment.

The practice has also proved beneficial in eliminating a number of other mental disorders through the elimination of worry and rumination. In addition, the practice has shown the potential to halt the development of ADHD, ADD, ODD and other behavioral oriented mental health issues. As such, a number of studies and trials related to these areas are now underway at different clinics, hospitals and universities around the world.

In order to get the most out of meditation, individuals must learn the skill of focusing only on activities and actions in the present moment. During the process, body scanning, breathing techniques and refocusing attention when drifting toward distractions or thoughts can often be helpful in reaching a mindful state. By locating a quiet setting, then sitting cross-legged on a floor, or sitting up straight in a chair with back support while repeating I am, on the inhale and relaxed on the exhale, individuals may find it easier to monitor breathing during meditative sessions.

By simply becoming aware of breathing patterns and rhythms, one is often placed into the present moment. Whereas, if using body scan techniques, meditation is focused on different areas of the body while noticing sensations in each area. Other techniques involve focusing on actions, feelings, thoughts, sensations and sounds which are present in the moment.

When it comes to length of meditative sessions or sitting in a mindful state, most do so for anywhere from ten to thirty minutes, with some sitting much longer periods. Generally, individuals whom sit for longer than thirty minutes are well seasoned at the practice and do so to clear the mind rather than work on achieving a mindful state. For, individuals whom can sit for an hour or more are most likely going to have a clear path to living in the present moment.




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