Benefits of meditation are much more than simply connecting with infinite

This article takes a short look at history then seeks to define some of the more modernly accepted benefits of meditation. The earliest known records of meditation come from around 1500 BCE and was found in writing from the Hindu traditions of Vedantism. Sometime between 6 BCE and 5 BCE, other forms of meditation developed in Taoist China and Buddhist India. (source: History of Meditation)

It is generally accepted that the original purpose of meditation was to help one connect with the infinite, usually accepted as the god worshiped by the group participating. As the number of people using the tools grew and its infamy spread westward, people found it could be used to relieve various type of problems and help a person live a life more closely integrated with with the natural rhythms of our world and universe.

There is a tremendously long list of benefits of meditation which have been researched and proven to improve these conditions when used regularly. You can find a list of some of the favorite benefits at Holistic Humanity.

Three of the benefits many people seek via meditation are: Decreases depression, calms anxiety and improves attention.

People with empathetic tendencies and those who truly love their fellow companions on this earth often find it hard to not be depressed. Everyday we hear about more violence, death and abuse at the hands of others. In many countries, there are no leaders to have faith in or trust to do what is right for everyone and the world and it has become obvious that religious extremist are alive and well in many religions, not just those usually labeled as terrorist. This alone has led to a tremendous increase in depression. Throw in a minor but expensive health problem, a sick parent or any one of hundreds of other possible problems and it's easy to see why depression has become such a major problem.

Recent research has found a connection between anxiety and minor brain injuries. Even a mild concussion can cause long term increases in anxiety and many times these minor injuries cause Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, often characterized with a tremendous increase in anxiety. Simply, basic meditation for just a few minutes a day can help to ease the anxiety and allow people to lead a much happier and calmer life.

The inability to concentrate and being unable to pay attention for more than a few seconds has also become rampant in our society. It's causes can range from any of the above listed causes, to chemicals in our food and environment and sensitivities to various foods. Just a few minutes of meditation each day can begin to relieve concentration problems in a short period of time.

How to meditate

1. Sit in a comfortable position. You can lie down if you are not worried about going to sleep, but sitting usually does best for beginners.
2. Close your eyes.
3. Allow your concentration to slowly move to your breathing. There is no need to breathe deeply. Simply allow your breath to flow in and out in a normal manner.
4. Now allow your concentration to flow to your body. Feel and see your body as it gently moves with each inhale and exhale. Don’t try to force anything to happen, simply continue to feel and watch your body as you breathe in and out normally.
   (source: Holistic Humanity)

Try the above simple technique for 3 to 5 minutes every day for 1 month. Then let me know if you received any benefits of meditation. You will probably be surprised how much it will help you.