Is it worth it to you to increase your brain performance?

For those of you who are regular meditators then you already know that meditation increases your sense of well being and calmness.

For those of you who think it’s a New Age hokey practice where you try to make your mind blank while focusing on a burning candle, scientists have a surprise for you. Research has confirmed positive changes to both the brain and the body due to the practice of meditation.

lowers blood pressure
enhances immune system
reduces stress, tension and anxiety
modifies negative emotions and moods
increases ability to relax
activates healing
improves quality of sleep
provides greater clarity of thought
makes for better mental focus
expands length of attention

Here is a framework for understanding meditation

It’s an ancient practice associated with numerous religious practices throughout history (a contemporary Western comparison would be deep prayer or reverie)
Scientific research indicates it alters the brain’s physical structure and how it functions
Only you have control over your own brain activity, no one else
Increased meditation experience increases mental skills and abilities
It allows the brain to alter thinking, emotions and physical responses outside of direct thought
The overall effects are consistent across variations in mediation practice
Benefits can be quickly gained without long term training or long hours of meditation
There are audio/visual aids that can increase the meditative effect