Tag Archives: Meditation

December 6, 2021

BOOST YOUR HAPPINESS HORMONES.

Think nice thoughts…

Oxytocin is a hormone that makes us feel bonded and trusting, but also helps in the release of mood-boosting chemical messengers, dopamine and serotonin – and you can think your way to greater levels of both.

When researchers in Japan measured oxytocin in people practising the Arigato Zen form of meditation (which involves chanting the Japanese for ‘thank you’), they found it rose by 36% on average.

Another form of meditation called Loving Kindness meditation, where you wish wellness and happiness on people you like and even those you don’t, also raised levels.

Practising kindness on a regular basis produces direct physiological changes in the brain and body in these areas. The part of the brain that controls it just starts to grow.

October 4, 2019

THE STRESS EFFECT.

It’s no secret that stress is bad for your health. Long-term exposure to anxiety is linked to increased risk of heart attack, stroke and other conditions.

But new research shows negative emotions may alter your bodies immune response, leading to increased inflammation.

The results showed that those who experienced negative moods several times a day, for extended periods of time, tended to have higher levels of inflammation in their blood. 

It is hoped that further research may lead to psychosocial interventions to break the cycle that can lead to chronic inflammation and disease.

Meanwhile, hit that yoga class or meditation session.

April 24, 2014

TOO BUSY TO MEDITATE?

Mediation

Try these three easy mindfulness exercises that fit seamlessly into a hectic day.

At work
Pause between your tasks, taking 15 seconds to a couple of minutes to sit comfortably, breather deeply and observe how your body feels. It’s a simple way to refresh your mind.

At home
Pay attention as you brush your teeth or take a shower. Focus on the feeling of brushing each tooth or the sensation of the warm water on your skin, rather than simply going through the same old motions.

Out and about
Walk with purpose and attention, noticing the environment around you, the fall of your feet on the ground and your thoughts as you stride.