Meditation has been practiced for thousands of years and is known to provide numerous benefits to those who regularly practice it. It is a technique that involves training the mind to focus on the present moment, letting go of distractions, and developing a sense of inner peace. The practice of meditation has gained increasing popularity in recent times, with many people turning to it for its benefits in reducing stress and improving overall well-being.
One of the most significant benefits of meditation is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. When we meditate, we allow our mind to rest and become calm. This, in turn, reduces the levels of stress hormones in our body, such as cortisol, which can be harmful in high amounts. A study conducted by Harvard Medical School found that meditation can lower blood pressure, decrease anxiety, and even help alleviate symptoms of depression.
In my own experience, I have found that meditation has been incredibly helpful in reducing stress levels. Whenever I feel overwhelmed or anxious, I take a few moments to meditate, and I am amazed at how much more relaxed I feel afterwards. I also find that regular meditation practice helps me to stay focused and alert, even during busy and stressful times.
Another benefit of meditation is that it can help us to develop a greater sense of compassion and empathy towards others. By focusing on our breath and quieting our mind, we become more aware of our thoughts and emotions. This heightened awareness can help us to develop a greater understanding of others’ feelings and experiences, allowing us to become more compassionate and empathetic individuals.
I recall an anecdote of a friend of mine who is a regular practitioner of meditation. She once shared with me how her practice has helped her to be more understanding and accepting of her colleagues at work. She used to feel frustrated and irritated by their behavior, but through her meditation practice, she was able to let go of those negative feelings and approach her colleagues with greater compassion and empathy. This change in attitude had a positive impact on her relationships with her colleagues, making her workplace a more positive and supportive environment.
Meditation can also improve our overall well-being, both physically and mentally. It has been found to enhance our immune system, promote better sleep, and increase our sense of overall happiness and well-being. When we meditate, we are taking time to focus on our inner selves, which can lead to a greater sense of clarity and purpose in our lives.
A story comes to mind of a woman who was struggling with chronic pain and fatigue. She had tried many different treatments, but nothing seemed to work. It wasn’t until she began a daily meditation practice that she started to notice a significant improvement in her symptoms. She found that meditation helped her to become more aware of her body’s needs and to take better care of herself. She also noticed that her mind was more clear and focused, allowing her to better manage her pain and fatigue.
Meditation is the perfect adjunct to the use of psychedelics for all the reasons listed above. It allows you to access consciousness on a much deeper level and open oneself up to the feeling of unity with all living things. Meditating before a journey, using meditative breathing during a journey, and reflecting after in a meditative state, should all be part of your personal psychedelic care. You’ll find that it enhances the benefits of using psychedelics and sustains your emotional, mental and spiritual well-being.
