Slow, repetitive movements, such as through yoga and tai chi, that focus on your breath can be equally effective in relaxing your mind and body. Meditation does not always involve quietly sitting still. The goal is to release your thoughts and maintain or refocus your attention on that point, preventing your mind from wandering. The purpose is to simply be aware of how you are feeling, not to become absorbed.Ĭoncentrative fixates on a particular point, whether it is a word, breath, or object. This technique specifically focuses on your breath and observes thoughts as they drift through your mind. Increase focus and learning concentrationīuild stronger immune system and greater physical/psychological resilienceĪlthough all forms of meditation aim for a similar goal, certain types are more productive for different people. Researchers at the Columbia University Medical Center claim meditating can change the structure and function of the brain through relaxation, which can: Meditation can help pull you away from the never-ending “what could’ve been” and “what ifs.” If ignored, the emotions can grow overwhelming. The former can cause sadness and depression, and the latter can produce stress and anxiety. For students, these thoughts regularly stem from two cases: dwelling in the past or worrying about the future. Our minds are lost in thought 47 percent of the time, according to researchers at Harvard University.

Focused meditation