The December 2013 issue of Real Simple magazine (page 148) cites a study published in June 2013 in "Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience" - which, according to the Real Simple article, "reported that the practice [of meditation] can reduce anxiety levels by up to 22 percent. Research has also suggested that meditating can actually form new and permanent neural connections in the brain." "The amazing thing? All you need is five minutes a day."
While it is not clear whether the participants in the study meditated only 5 minutes a day, practicing for 5 minutes would certainly be a great start. And I know from personal experience that that little bit of time can really make a difference.
Here is a link to a shorter version of the article, along with tips for your 5 minute meditation practice:
http://www.realsimple.com/health/mind-mood/how-meditate-00100000115508/index.html
About Me
- Cheryl
- I aim to live – and help others to live – what I call a “winged life.” A life of freedom and joy, a life of one’s own choosing. For me, regular periods of retreat and reflection are essential to maintaining my inner reserves so that I can “put myself out there” in a bold way. Every day we are barraged by demands for our attention, from family, friends, colleagues, marketers and the media. I have found that taking regular One Hour Retreats has helped me to “keep to my attention on my intention” amidst the chaos of daily life, reduced my stress level, and increased my zest for life.