Meditation is a simple practice that anyone can practice, at nearly any time. Some benefits include reduction of stress, an increased level of calmness and clarity, and an overall sense of happiness. It has been used for thousands of years to help develop awareness and appreciation for the present moment.
The increasing popularity of this ancient practice likely has a lot to do with the growing number of stresses and anxieties we are all experiencing, and our seniors face a unique set of struggles from transitions such as the loss of friends and loved ones, chronic pain and disease, empty nest, and retirement blues.
Mindfulness and meditation can be great skills for anyone to develop but can especially be beneficial for seniors. Some of the incredible benefits are:
- Relieve Stress: Many seniors experience chronic stress, which can lead to other serious health conditions like heart disease and hypertension. As you grow more comfortable with your practice, you’ll be more equipped to handle stressful or difficult situations without having strong reactions. Meditation, along with breathing exercises, help lower heart rate, release tension, and calm the nervous system.
- Improve Cognition: It’s been found that older adults experience cognitive decline for several reasons, including medications, illness, depression, and much more. Meditation and mindfulness have been shown to have positive effects on memory, orientation, language, and attention, especially in adults over age 60.
- Manage Moods and Emotions: Seniors are experiencing changes like never before, and with that comes a range of emotions to handle. With just one ten-minute meditation session, many seniors find themselves feeling deeper gratitude, a sense of grounding, and a stronger ability to cope with life’s challenges. Meditation encourages you to be present in the moment, without thinking of the past or worrying about the future, which helps bring feelings of fulfilment and inner peace.
It does not need to be difficult to begin meditating today. Just give yourself a little time, and space to get started.
- You can meditate anywhere at any time, but you should try and find a quiet space free from distractions.
- Get into a comfortable seat. Keeping an upright posture will help keep your mind and energy focused, but if find your body tires easily like this, you can try laying down or sitting in a comfortable chair.
- To get comfortable with the practice, it can be great to try a guided meditation to help you become familiar with the process. There are countless meditations available on YouTube or Spotify, as well as apps like Headspace, Calm, and Insight Timer.
- Notice how your mind, body and breath are affected, and be kind to your mind. It’s normal for your mind to get lost in thought, but it’s best to accept these thoughts and move on.
- Finally, when you’re ready, take a moment and appreciate how you feel, your thoughts and your emotions. Be compassionate to yourself.
It can take time to be comfortable with these practices. We’re used to having so much go on at once, that focusing just on the current moment can be difficult. Everyone’s experience is going to be different, and it’s important to just let yourself feel.
If you or someone in your family are facing aging challenges, or are interested in learning more about meditation, mindfulness, and other wellness practices, please give us a call at 850-894-6720 or email us at info@gcmsolutions.net to learn how a care manager can help support and uplift you through this process. We’ll be happy to assist!
