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The 4 Pillars of Health

Fundamental Actions That Can Lead to a Better Life

By Dr. Thomas O. Goode

Both your body and mind require down time. Meditation is just that. It is the creation of a relaxed state and a quiet mind. During meditation the brain shifts from overdrive to calm. This reduces the level of cortisol in the body, thus minimizing stress. There are many ways to meditate. Not all involve the trance-like state often associated with the practice.

Meditation is personal. It is how you personally center yourself and quiet your mind. This can be achieved with prayer, repeating a positive phrase, watching the trees sway, observing your breathing or deliberately walking with peace in mind. Using your breath to center is called mindfulness meditation. During this practice, you sit quietly and focus on your breathing. As you do this, thoughts will drift in and out of your mind. If they distract you, just return to the focus of your breathing. Your mind will slow as you focus on this one function. With practice and patience, your body and mind will respond to the process. It will offer you a still and quiet state from which you can renew yourself to live with intention and express optimal health.

Dr. Thomas O. Goode is the co-founder of the International Breath Institute, which was created in 1991 to teach people how to enhance their health and prevent premature aging. He is also an inspirational speaker, workshop facilitator and author of seven books.