Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue are distressing disorders, characterized by pain, fatigue, and a multitude of other possible symptoms including depression and anxiety. Meditation has been shown to benefit people with Fibromyalgia (FM) and Chronic Fatigue syndrome (CFS) through calming the mind and easing the body.
What Are The Benefits Of Meditation?
Mental/Emotional Benefits:
> More even moods, fewer mood swings
> Releasing Depression
> Less anxiety
> Increased energy and vitality
> Improved memory and cognitive function
> A sense of peace and calm
> Less Stress
Physical benefits of Meditation:
> Lowered blood pressure
> Reduced heart rate
> More balanced nervous system
> Better Sleep
> May help balance the immune system to help the body resist disease and heal
> Less physical stress and a more balanced the autonomic nervous system (which is what governs the stress response in the body)
How Does Meditation Help People With FM and CFS?
Research has shown time and again that meditation can help people who suffer from chronic pain. It is also one of the most ancient, proven methods relieving stress.
Recently, meditation has been shown to reduce symptoms of FM and CFS. It is one of the most ancient systems for reducing stress, which is a key feature of these conditions. Stress exacerbates CFS and FM, as well as causing more of it, creating a vicious circle. Lowering stress in some way is important for sufferers, and meditation is free and doesn't require leaving the house or depending on others (unless you want to take a class, which is helpful, especially in the beginning). It also doesn't require special equipment or clothing, and there are no side effects.
Meditation has also been shown to improve sleep patterns and increase energy. Furthermore, research has continually shown that it reduces pain levels. It can enhance the body's ability to heal itself, and improve overall quality of life.
Physically, it can lower the level of cortisol in the body, which is a stress hormone. Mentally, it helps you to get your mind off of worries, pain, stress, and illness. It allows you to cultivate a focus on something completely unrelated to your life, your pain, or your illness.
Meditation is not a cure for FM or CFS; it is an ancient tool for relieving symptoms as well as taking control of your illness.
Author: Sheryl Walters, kinesiologist, nutritionist and holistic practitioner.
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