Did you know that dedicating just five minutes a day to meditation can have a significant impact on your overall health? We sat down with integrative physician, Dr. Sonya Doherty of NourishMD, to delve into the scientific aspects of how meditation can enhance our well-being.

Understanding the Power of Meditation:

Dr. Doherty explains that when we engage in meditation, we consciously choose to focus our attention on the present moment. This simple act allows us to quiet the incessant chatter of our minds, alleviating concerns about the past and future.

Countering Chronic Stress:

Chronic stress has been identified as a contributing factor to numerous health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, anxiety, and depression. Dr. Doherty highlights that our bodies produce excess cortisol when under chronic stress, leading to inflammation. Fortunately, meditation effectively lowers cortisol levels, reducing inflammation and promoting the body’s natural healing processes.

Alleviating Physical Pain:

Dr. Doherty recommends incorporating regular meditation into the treatment plan for individuals dealing with chronic pain. Research has shown that even just 20 minutes of daily meditation over eight weeks resulted in a significant reduction in pain intensity compared to those who did not meditate.

Enhancing Heart Health:

High blood pressure poses a significant risk factor for heart disease. Dr. Doherty explains that meditation has demonstrated its ability to lower blood pressure. In a study, participants who practiced meditation for 30 minutes a day over eight weeks experienced notable decreases in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels.

By devoting a mere five minutes each day to meditation, you can unlock a myriad of health benefits that positively impact your physical and mental well-being. Discover the transformative potential of this simple yet powerful practice.