According to the American Heart Association, practicing meditation and mindfulness may help you manage your stress and high blood pressure, sleep better, feel more balanced and connected, and even lower your risk of heart disease.
Some studies have linked meditation to healthier arteries and improved blood flow to the heart. Additional studies are needed to better understand the association between meditation and cardiovascular health, but experts agree that this practice can be good for your heart. There are many kinds of meditation. Some of the popular types are:
- Heartfulness meditation is a heart-based meditation that fosters peace, balance and overall well-being.
- Mindfulness meditation may use an object of focus such as a ringing bell, a chant, touching beads or gazing at an object.
- Transcendental meditation allows your mind to focus inward while staying alert to other thoughts and sensations.
- Other styles of meditation include: compassion, insight, mantra, Zen and others.
Try different types of meditation to figure out which one you enjoy most. The key is to focus on your breathing so your mind doesn't wander. If it does wander, slowly bring it back to your breathing. Slowly lengthen the amount of time you are able to remain focused. Meditation is not a substitute for medication or medical treatment, but it can be a way for you to take charge of your health.