Meditation ~ Nourish Your Brain. Though the concept originates in ancient Buddhist, Hindu and Chinese traditions, when it comes to experimental psychology, mindfulness is less about spirituality and more about concentration: the ability to quiet your mind, focus your attention on the present, and dismiss any distractions that come your way.

I've seen articles and such about the benefits of meditation, and I only have one question: Really? I am an analyst so I pretty much see black and white and very little gray. I'm pretty skeptical. Is there some actual science behind meditation benefits? So what do I do? I research! I am an analyst remember? Ha!

What is Meditation?

Meditation is about training your brain to concentrate and focus better. As professor David Levy describes it to USA Today, meditation is just another exercise: Meditation is a lot like doing reps at a gym. It strengthens your attention.

That's it. You don't need to buy yoga pants (you should though, they are beyond comfy), burn incense, smoke patchouli or even sit a particular way. The purpose of meditation is to train your brain just like you do the everything else. In this case, that means concentrating and focusing on one thing in your brain for a little while.

Though the concept originates in ancient Buddhist, Hindu and Chinese traditions, when it comes to experimental psychology, mindfulness is less about spirituality and more about concentration: the ability to quiet your mind, focus your attention on the present, and dismiss any distractions that come your way.

So, if you're struggling with concentration and focus, it's thought that meditation is one simple way to train yourself to get better at it. All it really takes is the ability to intentionally not think about anything for a little while. Sounds easy, right? It's not, my mind wanders.

The Benefits of Meditation

Is Meditation Really Beneficial, or Is It a Hoax?
It's long been thought that meditation plays some role in concentration and focus, but only recently have we started to see studies that actually reflect the common wisdom.

For example, one study from the University of Washington showed that meditation can increase productivity and help you focus, another study published in Brain Research Bulletin suggests meditation can decrease stress, and another by the University of Massachusetts Medical School has shown meditation can boost your overall brain power in a number of ways. It appears as though even short stints of meditation have a positive effect on the brain's ability to concentrate. That in turn makes it easier to focus, retain memories, and be more productive. I have to say just clearing my mind for a few minutes in the middle of a busy day is so refreshing.

How do I Meditate?
Sit with your back straight enough that your breathing is comfortable and not restricted from sitting—on a chair or a cushion on the floor—and set a timer for your chosen duration. Once you start the timer, close your eyes, relax, and don't move except to breathe, until the timer goes off. Focus on your breath going in and out. Every time you have a thought or an urge, notice it and bring yourself back to your breath. I have found some meditation music helps me clear my mind as well. My favorite Essential oil blends to help me achieve a deep meditation are:

 Botanical Delights Unwind Your Mind Relaxation Butter - deeply balancing giving you the ability to release all of the unwanted thoughts and emotional drains of every day life. Feel some inner peace. 

Botanical Delights Yoga & Meditation Balm - easy to carry in your bag. Great for Yoga and meditation of course. This is good anytime you need to take it down a notch.

Botanical Delights Meditate My Soul - this was my original blend that convinced me that the use of essential oils could really assist me on my meditation journey. I have a very wandering mind. I am a multitasker big time!

Take a few minutes every day to just relax, clear your mind, and concentrate on your breathing. Don't let anything else in. This is your time. It's simple, doesn't take up that much of your day, and has been shown to have substantial benefits.