Mediation is good for seniors since it helps in improving your ability to focus. Researches even suggest that it delays early onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease as meditation stimulates the mind. Aside from that, meditation is a good destressor which can help seniors prevent anxiety and depression from happening. However, meditation is not without myths and unfortunately, some seniors cringe away from meditation because of the idea it connotes. Below are the top 5 meditation myths and the truth behind them:
MYTH 1: Meditation and relaxation are the same. They are two different things. When you relax, you don’t necessarily-or automatically- meditate—you simply let go. Letting go is just the first step in meditation. In order to achieve a higher state of mind, which is meditation, you need to have a relax body and a calm mind.
MYTH 2: Meditation is supernatural mumbo-jumbo. There is nothing supernatural about meditation. Although it may sound like it, seniors should not be intimidated by the idea it connotes as meditation can really help you in taking things in a “mind-over-matter” manner. Take note of the word “mind”, since it is your own mind power you are harnessing.
MYTH 3: Meditation is only for the religious kind. Just because Buddhist monks meditate, it doesn’t mean the practice of meditation is strictly religious. In fact, meditation concerns your body and mind, no religion involve. Most common meditation practices don’t include any religious references however, some may have, in aid of achieving higher state of mind.
MYTH 4: Meditation is running away from your problems. Not so, in fact it is quite the opposite. Meditation helps you focus on what’s happening now thus enabling you to face your challenges without feeling the stress of it or allowing the stress of it to affect you. Again, meditation is having a sound mind, and in order to have a sound mind, there should be nothing to bother you. Running away from your problem, on the other hand, is not necessarily solving it since it will still be there when you come back. Meditation will only help you deal with it.
MYTH 5: Meditation is the quickest way to solve your problems. It may be, but not very soon. Remember that meditation takes practice and a different mindset. You should embrace the practice of meditation knowing that you are interested in exploring a different state of mind—different from what you are used to. Your ability to focus and divert energies are only a plus.
