A HAPPIER 2024 in 20 minutes?

It might be hard to believe but 2024 is right around the corner…

Which mean you might be thinking about those New Year’s resolutions to help kickstart your body and/or mind.

Well, today I have something different for you to consider.

It’s not a restrictive diet… or a grueling exercise program…

But new science says this “resolution” can help you live a HAPPIER life in as little as 20 minutes a day!

New findings published in the journal PLos ONE say MEDITATION could lead to a happier life for seniors.

The study honed in on the benefits of a specially designed meditation program that consisted of tasks such as a weekly group session lasting two hours, daily 20-minute home practice, and a one-day retreat.

The found that folks who completed the this specific “course” (which lasted nine months) experienced:

• Improvements in well-being – particularly in areas of awareness, connection, and insight.
• And, a greater overall sense of calm, deep satisfaction, enhanced relationships, and a more positive outlook on the world.

We could all use that kind of outlook in our lives!

Now the meditation program in this study was very specific. However, the bigger takeaway here is that meditation can provide many benefits—steering you toward overall well-being and happiness this coming year.

Studies have also found that meditation can ease back pain, reduce inflammation, and help you sleep better (which is also good for the mind).

Here’s more good news…

The simple act of meditation doesn’t require complete silence or an extravagant ‘Zen-like’ retreat.

Simply turning off distractions, like your phone, TV, or the radio, and engaging in some deep-breathing for a few minutes each day is a great way to calm your mind and body.

There are also easy-to-use (and free) apps like Calm, which are designed to teach you how to reduce anxiety and stress, sleep better, and check in with your emotions.

We have no affiliation with Calm or it’s developers; it may prove to be a valuable tool for anyone looking to start meditation.

To reaching optimal health in the new year,

Cory Templeman
Senior Editor, eAlert

PS – Speaking of New Year’s resolutions, check out this afternoon’s eAlert on how ONE exercise can help increase your lifespan (and it can be done year round!).

Sources:

StudyFinds. “Meditation: Learning certain techniques helps older adults live happier lives.” https://studyfinds.org/meditation-older-adults-well-being/