Do you often feel there just aren't enough hours in the day? Running from meeting to meeting, and no matter how efficient your planning skills, you feel as if you are perpetually playing catch-up. Mindfulness meditation can help. It optimizes the body's relaxation response and allows you to decelerate the incessant thoughts and stress hormones that swirl through your brain and body when you are feeling overwhelmed. It helps you stay in the present moment and take notice of your thoughts and actions by taking a step back, focusing on the breath, and mindfully observing what is happening in the here and now. Even fifteen minutes a day can work wonders.
Over the past few decades, researchers have backed up what we knew must be true: that mindfulness meditation can boost your health and contribute to longevity. Still not convinced? Read on, for scientific proof.
1. Better concentration.
Researchers have discovered that the human mind tends to wander for approximately half of your waking hours. By design, mindfulness anchors your attention in the present moment. One particular workplace study by Case Western Reserve University confirmed that mindfulness improves three qualities of attention -- stability, control and efficiency. It is well known that many forward-thinking organizations such as Google and Aetna have implemented mindfulness training into their corporate culture and are reaping the benefits of employees who are more focused and productive.