Meditation – What is it?

Meditation is simply an art or science of creating harmony between your mind and body by focusing your attention inward on something that you can relate to, with closed eyes with preferably no physical movement. Some methods of meditation involves shifting of attention from one thing to another in a rhythmic flow, so that the mind can become so focused and engrossed, that the physical awareness disappears and eventually the mind becomes free of all thoughts and bliss is experienced. Meditation is believed to originate from ancient Vedas from Hindu religion. The goals of meditating can be different for different people.

Scientific Approach To Meditation -- Change in Brainwaves

Brain produces electrical activity known as brain waves, which keeps changing depending on what we do physically, or mentally.

During the state of meditating, a change in brainwaves takes place as the breathing becomes slower and rhythmic and the relaxation response of the body and mind increases.

Biofeedback or EEG machines can measure these electrical impulses in cycles per second or Hertz and scientists have identified four principle types of brainwaves. The most common types of brainwaves are

• Beta - 12 to 20 Hertz (Faster)

• Alpha - 8 to 12 Hertz (Slow)

• Theta - 4 to 8 Hertz (Slower)

• Delta - 1 to 4 Hertz (Slowest)

There are other brainwaves less researched like K-band and seldom our brain experiences  K-Band brainwave, but discussing that would be out of scope of this topic.

Hearing to slow rhythmic beat based sound, or metronome sound can also assist in inducing different brainwave patterns.

We in meditative state experience these various brainwaves generally in following stages.

Beta – Beginning of Meditation

Alpha – Initial state of meditation

Theta – Deep state of meditation

Delta – Intense and deepest state of meditation

Generally, beginners of mediation experience predominant alpha to theta and vices verse, while experienced meditation practitioner may experience alpha to theta, and then delta, and hover back again to theta.

Therefore from scientific perspective, the effect of meditation stimulates the secretion of hormones like

• DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) : This is a hormone produced by adrenal gland is believed to contribute toward our good health by reducing the production of restrictive hormone cortisol and adrenaline. DHEA contributes towards improving immunity by stimulating the growth of monocytes which are T cells and B cells. DHEA can help in treatment and prevention of cardiovascular problems like heart diseases, cancer, diabetes and other similar undesirable medical conditions. DHEA is also considered beneficial for controlling blood pressure, vision improvement and prevention of hearing loss.

• Melatonin : Doing meditation increases secretion of melatonin, produced by the pineal gland which is located at the center of the brain.

Spiritual or Religious Approach To Meditation – Self-Realization & Connection to Higher Self or God

Spiritually aware people may practice meditation for self realization, and for experiencing spiritual bliss. Ultimate spiritual for practicing meditation is to attain emancipation or freed from the cycle of birth and death, and to become one with God.

Meditation helps to maintain our inner balance and contributes positively towards our physical, mental and emotional health.

Benefits of meditation are numerous, and can help people to achieve, and succeed in their personal, professional and personal life.

Best of all meditation is free, and a natural way to restore your health without fear of any side effects unlike the risk associated with usage of medicine to cure yourself. The art and science of meditation can contribute towards making you healthy in holistic way.

Best of Luck on Your Eternal Journey of Meditation,

Keshav Jha