From stress reduction to improved attention and memory, meditation is a practice that yields a large number of health benefits. Mediation has slowly been gaining in popularity in recent years, garnering a number of scientific studies to determine the specific effects the practice has on the body. It has been found that meditation and other forms of relaxation and mindfulness not only change the immediate state of mind, but also alter the actual structure of the brain.
Before diving into the details, it is important to outline exactly what meditation means. The practice can present itself in many forms, often times different for different people. Mindfulness meditation or focused attention is the most widely practiced form. During the course of the meditation session, practitioners focus on one thought and one thought alone. If a “stray” thought develops, it must be recognized quickly and then brought back to their original focus of attention.
