Editor’s note: the following is from the Okanagan Meditation & Oneness Blessing Circle Meet-up Group.
Life is busy and stress is a natural part of our lives but it doesn’t have to lead to illness.
Learn to manage your stress in a healthy way and respond to life’s challenges with meditation.
Meditation is a way to train the mind and bring awareness to the present moment. Without awareness the mind has free reign to drain your energy through worrying about the future or obsessing about the past. This leaves us in a constant state of stress and anxiety, which left unmanaged leads to disease and illness.
Breathing is not only the gift of life but breathing with awareness is one of the most powerful tools we have as human beings to master the mind. It allows us to respond with wisdom to life’s challenges instead of constantly habitually reacting. With practice we use the breath as a way to slow down in times of challenge and make thoughtful decisions and not act on the heat of our emotions.
Meditation allows you to experience more of your natural state free from the busyness of the mind where you naturally feel more peaceful, relaxed and in a state of well-being.
Studies have shown that meditation is also helpful in reducing blood pressure, lowering cholesterol, improving concentration, creativity and productivity as well as experiencing more restful sleep. These are just some of the numerous benefits of incorporating a meditation practice as part of your daily routine.
Meditation is for anyone who desires to experience more happiness, peace and harmony in their lives. The Vernon library has partnered with the Okanagan Oneness Blessing Community to offer weekly group meditation evenings each Tuesday at the library. All are welcome to join and no previous meditation experience is necessary.
The group meets Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the library, 2800-30th Ave., either in the meeting room on the main floor near the circulation desk or in the community room on the upper floor. For more information, contact Candice at candice.tasker@yahoo.com
