How Meditation Heals September 4, 2013
Posted by nrhatch in Life Balance, Meditation, Mindfulness.comments closed
Meditation is calming, soothing, and healing.
The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) controls release of adrenaline during times of stress . . . real or imagined. Due to ubiquitous stress in daily life, the adrenal gland works overtime, resulting in chronic stress overload which weakens the immune system, increases pain, and prevents or slows healing.
The parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) controls the relaxation response, which improves mood and quality of life, speeds healing, and helps to relieve pain.
Meditation can be seen as a key to help us switch off the overworked SNS and tap into the relaxation response of the PNS.
As we engage in mindful breathing (taking slow, deep, controlled breaths), we counter the stress response and release endorphins. Outside the brain, the adrenal gland quiets down as the relaxation response fires up.
The overall effect of meditation is a shift from stress mode to relaxation mode, which enhances the body’s ability to heal.
Aah . . . that’s better!
Related post: 5 Myths About Meditation (Find Your Middle Ground)
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