Meditation is a simple, low-cost way to lower stress and support health. It requires no special training and can be practiced by people in any faith tradition. Both seniors and their caregivers can use this valuable tool to improve their emotional and physical well-being.

Emotional Benefits

People who meditate regularly report feeling calmer, more focused, and happier. They experience less depression and anxiety, and they manage their anger better. Meditation decreases the “fight or flight” stress response, allowing us to relax deeply even in the middle of a stressful day.

Physical Benefits

The benefits of meditation extend to physical health, too. Meditation can lower blood pressure, boost the immune system, improve sleep, and decrease pain. It may even help reduce mental decline. A recent UCLA study showed that adults aged 24 through 77 who meditated regularly lost less “gray matter” than those who didn’t meditate. This study doesn’t prove a direct link between meditation and brain health, but it’s a promising start.

How to Meditate

Meditation is easy to learn and takes only a few minutes. To begin, find a quiet spot without distractions. Sit with your back straight and both feet on the floor. Breathe deeply. Focus your mind by counting breaths from one to four, and then back to one. Start with brief sessions, working up to twenty or thirty minutes if you can. Even short meditation sessions can make a big difference in physical and emotional health.

At Best Care, we’re here to support you and your loved one in maintaining optimum health. Contact us to learn more about meditation, or for help with any of your loved one’s health care needs.