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The Benefits of Meditation
 We've all heard of meditation and some of you may have even tried it. What are the benefits to meditation? Why do some swear by it? What might you gain from it? For most of us, the change of seasons brings about change of lifestyle, so it may the perfect time to try it out.
At its core meditation is a sort of self-relaxation technique that probably first saw use in Asia thousands of years ago.
As the people of those times found benefits to meditating, the practice continued. Although meditation may have taken on some style or method changes throughout the years, it is still the same act, capable of unlocking same great benefits.
When someone meditates they first choose a relaxing, tranquil setting. From here, they get into a physical position of comfort, usually seated. Next, the deep, mind and body release takes place as the practitioner slips into a deeper place of self-relaxation. This can be done in order to gain perspective on life issues, or simply to attain a deep state of peace.
The benefits of meditation are great. There is a reason people have practiced this art for thousands of years. And today, science and study are now proving it. We now know, with scientific certainty, the benefits of meditation to include:
Increased Pain Resilience
Studies have compared those in pain practicing meditation, versus those in pain who did not. Meditation has shown an ability to help stave off some of pain's capacities for intensity and regularity.
Better Sleep
Those who meditate with any regularity are shown to display much better sleep patterns. Sleep is deeper, more restful, and less interrupted. Subsequently a more refreshed, post-sleep state is often experienced.
Lower Blood Sugar
Lower blood sugar and improved insulin management are some very surprising yet, delightfully positive benefits to meditation. After many weeks of meditation, participant tests consistently proved this amazing result.
Increased Empathy
Another great benefit to meditation is the increased empathy practitioners often become naturally capable of. This is with regard to themselves, as well as others. A greater awareness and stability of mind are thought to be the chief invoking factors.
Reduced Anxiety and Depression
Very much related to increased empathy, regular meditation almost always reduces the symptoms and suffering of anxiety and depression alike. During meditation, the release of certain feel-good compounds is thought to have some behind-the-scenes involvement in this particular benefit.
Circulatory and Heart Benefits
Study after study, the results have confirmed that meditation can do wonders for the heart and circulatory system. Significantly reduced heart attack risks, heart disease risks, and blood pressure are the natural results of regular meditation. This is well proven.
Stronger Immune System
A stronger immune system is another studied benefit to meditation. Groups having meditated as part of a regular routine showed much better resistance to cold and flu infections. This was found to be because of increased antibody production - a result of regular meditation.
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Nutrition Tips
from Lauren, our Dietitian
 Stay Hydrated! Most people confuse thirst with hunger, tune in to your mind-body connection and try drinking a glass of water before grabbing a snack, and wait 15 minutes before eating something, if you still want to.
- Be sure to drink a minimum of 8-10 8oz glasses of water a day. Increase daily hydration with sweat loss.
- Drink one glass of water before each meal to increase satiety and prevent overeating.
- Avoid sugar-sweetened beverages - stick with water, club soda, coffee or tea.
Beverage Recipes: Fruit-infused Water
Grab your favorite on-the-go water bottle, pitcher or Mason jar. Choose your favorite fruit, veggie or herbs to make a great substitute for your sugar-sweetened beverage.
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 Fill the bottom half of your water bottle or pitcher with fresh fruit (sliced, diced or muddled), veggie or herb. Use a wooden spoon to mash or muddle combination. - Fill the rest of the container with ice and water (substitute club soda for a fizzy alternate).
- Store in the refrigerator for 2-24 hours for maximum flavor.
Try these combinations:
- Cucumber and fresh mint
- Strawberry and peach
- Blackberry or raspberry and sage
- Watermelon, pineapple, and orange
- Orange, cucumber, lemon and lime
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