Although associated with Buddhism and other faith traditions, meditation is universal. And anyone can do it. And it’s free! You can’t say that about most things these days. Many images arise with meditation: “clearing the thoughts” in your head, trying to attain “higher state” or chanting “Om” several times. Meditation can be transforming with practice but, simply, meditation is paying attention on purpose.

That may sound easy but consider how many times during the day we try to “multi-task” thinking we are being productive. In actuality, the brain can only focus on one task at a time. The brain stops one task, so it can perform another. What usually happens is that we do several tasks with less attention to each one; instead of performing one task well with our full attention.

Most people that tell me that they do not have time to stop and sit quietly for thirty minutes or even ten minutes. Their schedules are too busy. Certainly, how are you possibly going to get everything done? It is a valid question and perhaps, I suggest, that is the very reason to take the time to meditate for your health.

With the current level of medical diagnostic testing, research has demonstrated that meditation for a short time daily can have profound affects on your health and well being. There are positive changes in your immune system, GI system, stress level, central nervous system, endocrine system, cardiovascular system and musculoskeletal system. It is a “self –regulatory practice” that can promote your own health and well being.

Mindfulness encompasses meditation and refers to being attentive to each moment without judgement. When someone is talking to you, giving that individual your full attention instead of thinking of the other place you would rather be. In practice, it is challenging because we are always rushing off to the next activity. Our society does not reward us for stopping and taking a moment to breathe. We are pushed to be more productive, move faster and jump higher. So, returning to the question of getting everything done in the day- maybe, we adjust our expectations a bit. Maybe, we recognize the valuable areas in our lives, cut out a couple activities and give ourselves more “down” time without feeling guilty. Knowing that special moment with your friend or child in this beautiful county will pass unnoticed if we don’t give it our full attention.