Meditation

The last couple of days I have discussed how routines and patterns of thinking can create structures in the brain and body that support those patterns and routines.  Most people live their lives day in and day out this way.  Then I suggested that if you have negative patterns of thinking like excessive worrying, you should look into meditating. You should look into meditating anyway, because the practice of meditating carries with it many benefits.  I mentioned how it strengthens the frontal lobe, which serves as the conductor of the brains orchestra.  This can increase your ability to focus, eliminating all distractions until your mind is attentive on one subject.  Who wouldn't want greater skill with that? You also learn how to step outside of yourself and witness your thoughts, with the goal of becoming more familiar with them, cultivating the ability to recognize patterns within your thinking. You can also condition your mind and body to achieve greater levels of relaxation.  This skill really pays off when you are under stress, some people just can't let it go. There are studies that show meditation reduces the stress hormone cortisol, which for some people is produced chronically and leads to many physical problems and illness. You are essentially training the mind.  It works just like exercising a muscle.  With daily practice, you eventually become very strong, mentally and emotionally.