Why Meditation Makes You Happy

Many children learn (either consciously or subconsciously) that happiness is difficult to achieve. They also often learn that one can only be happy when a certain set of external circumstances are met (for example the approval of a friend or parent, or having a certain toy or other item).

For many people this same mindset carries over strongly into adulthood. Many adults only experience happiness if they own the most stuff, or have the latest ipod or iphone; or eat the right food; or live in the right house; or drive the right car; and so on.

The ironic thing is that, the more we strive to acquire the things that we think will make us happy, the more elusive happiness seems to be.

And that behavior continues into adulthood, only it is our boss that we are trying to please. Or our spouse. Or our now older parents. Either way, we are still seeking happiness in the wrong place - outside of ourselves.

In reality, once we acquire the new whatever, we look straight for the next thing to buy - because the last thing didn't really bring us happiness after all. So is there an alternative? A way that we can be happier and more fulfilled without buying into modern consumerism?

If the path to happiness is not outside us, then it MUST be inside. And the good news is - that it is! And not only that, it is accessible to everyone. So what is the path to true happiness? It is finding that quiet place within where you know that you are safe, and loved, and nurtured. No matter what is happening in the external world. No matter what you have or haven't acquired.

That is where meditation comes in.

Practicing meditation is easier than you think. You don't need any special equipment, clothes or music. All you need is you. One of the simplest forms is called "mindfulness meditation'. Essentially you sit or lie comfortably with your eyes closed and listen to the sounds around you. That's all there is to it. If you notice your mind starting to wander just gently redirect it back to the present. You only need to do this for five minutes daily.

What meditation does is to beneficially change your body's chemical soup and nervous impulses. The result is that both body and mind feels more relaxed. Your thoughts slow down, increased levels of joy-promoting neurotransmitters are released, and you become happy.

So what is happiness, anyway? One definition that I like is a "state of well-being characterized by emotions ranging from contentment to intense joy."

Meditation is a quick, cheap and easy way to boost your happiness level. It just takes a few minutes a day. You should try it - you'll be happy that you did!