How can We stay Calmer and Happier in a time of Adversity? (Part two)

Last week, I talked about our ability to control our response to stress, (stress response) by using our thoughts and rational mind to control our emotions.

This week, I am going to talk about one of the most important practices that we can do to reduce our stress and that is MEDITATION AND MINDFULNESS.

Studies on meditation and mindfulness have showed that we can increase activity in regions of the brain that are associated with happiness and calmness. These changes have been shown in FMRI in the brains of individuals a few weeks after meditation and mindfulness practices. These individuals become increasingly happier and calmer after a few weeks of mindfulness practices.

MEDITATION

Meditating for 10-20 minutes daily can keep us more peaceful during the day. Meditation has different techniques and types. But we do not need to make it complex, therefore increasing our resistance to doing it at all. We can simply sit in a quiet place and not think about our daily life. If a thought comes to our mind, gently without any concern just let it go away. With focusing on our breathing, we can control our mind better.

MINDFULNESS

What are mindfulness practices?

Most of the time, we are living in the past or the future and this is one of the main causes of stress in our lives. Mindfulness training teaches us to be more mindful to our surroundings. We should focus on self-awareness and be present in the moment. For instance, when we eat breakfast, we should focus on our food and enjoy our food, not checking our email or doing other work. Be aware, where you are.

Mindfulness not only makes us happier and calmer, it also makes us smarter, helps us make better decisions and become more productive.

For better mental, emotional and physical health, we need to make meditation and mindfulness practices a part of our daily schedule.  Mindfulness training changes the brain, if we do it regularly. We become happier, calmer and clearer.

Coming next week more things that we can do to become happier and calmer.

Dr. M. Rashidi