Today is World Meditation Day, which is the perfect time to learn the health benefits of this helpful practice. Meditation is a technique that anyone can do to relax the body and calm the mind. Many people who meditate find a quiet, comfortable place to sit so they can focus on their breathing. Some people choose to focus on a word or sound. If sitting quietly is not for you, you can choose activities that allow you to focus on your breath like yoga, tai chi or walking.

What are the benefits of meditation? For one thing, it can help improve your emotional and mental health. Controlling your attention while you meditate can help you feel more relaxed and at peace. You may also feel more awake and be more purposeful with your actions.

Meditation can be used alongside conventional treatments to help with many conditions. Through a regular meditation practice, you might be able to lower your blood pressure, decrease pain, improve immune system function and improve your mood and brain function. You will see the best results if you can devote 10-20 minutes each day to meditation.

Not sure how to get started? There are lots of books and videos available through the library or on streaming services to help guide you. You can even download an app. Here are some tips to help you:

• Choose a quiet place with few distractions.
• Sit on the floor or in a chair.
• Take a breath and be aware of how your breath feels as it enters and leaves your body through your mouth and nose.
• Feel your belly rise and fall as you breathe.
• If a thought pops into your head, don’t fight it. Just take note of the thought and let it go.
• As your meditation session ends, use the last one to two minutes to become aware of your surroundings. Get up from your seat slowly.

You may need to experiment before you find the routine that works for you, but the benefits down the road will be worth it. This time is a gift for you, so take the time to find what works best!