Meditate to Manage Stress

Taking 10 or 20 minutes a day to be still—in a comfortable position, in a quiet place that is free of distractions, where you can focus your attention on your breath—is the practice of meditation. 

Psychological benefits:

• Reduction of anxiety, depression
• Improved concentration
• Improved ability to cope with stressful situations
• Reduced pain

Physical benefits:

• Lowered blood pressure
• Boosted immune system
• Increased activity in regions of the left frontal lobe of your brain (an area that tends to be more active in optimistic people)

Meditation is a method to relax ourselves and free ourselves from anxiety and fear. If we learn to stay in the moment, then we tend to not reflect on the past (which can cause depression) or focus on the future (which can cause anxiety). It’s free and may help lower stress, improve your mood, and increase your ability to react calmly in stressful situations. Try it!

Need more than mediation to handle your stress? Reach out to a counselor through the Life Assistance Program (LAP). It’s available to you and your family, completely confidential, and free!