Depression is a major global health issue that affects and estimated 280 million worldwide.
This mental health condition with people who don’t suffer from depression is a temporary bursts if they are presented with a difficult situation, such as the loss of a loved one. Afterwards, they are able to return to their happy state of mind.
However, when a person is depressed, they dwell on sad moments. Releasing them becomes increasingly difficult, and this can lead to major episodes of depression. While traditional treatmetns like medication and psychotherapy play a crucial role in managing depression, a growing body of research suggests that meditation can be a helpful tool in easing depressive symptoms.

What is Depression?
Depression is a pervasive mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness and a decreased interest in activities once enjoyed. Some common symptoms of depression include, chronic low mood, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness and in sever cases, suicidal thoughts.
Research has also proven that high levels of stress can lead to depression as well. It doesn’t matter if the stress is from a positive or negative situation either. For instance, an engaged woman might experience depression from the stress of planning a wedding that she is looking forward to. The overwhelming list of things to do piles on too much pressure, and it just becomes too much to bare. Some people have chemical imbalances in their bodies that can lead to depression too.
Depression can also cause physical discomfort, such as fatigue, headaches, or body aches. The severity and frequency of these symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. Some individuals may experience major depressive episodes sporadically, while others may grapple with chronic symptoms. Regardless of the type, depression can significantly impair one’s quality of life, making it essential to seek professional help and effective treatment strategies.

Understanding Meditation?
Meditation is the practice of sustained voluntary attention. The keywords here are sustained and voluntary. In meditation we are training our mind to focus and redirect thoughts.
The attention cultivated in meditation brings increased awareness of the present moment. The practitioner is encouraged to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgement or criticism.
Contrary to some misconceptions, meditation is not about clearing your mind or achieving a state of complete emptiness. Instead, it’s about developing an understanding of your thoughts and learning to manage them better.

How meditation helps manage depression
Meditation can be a valuable tool in managing depression for several reasons. Principally, it helps change the way you respond to negative thoughts, a common symptom of depression. Instead of getting consumed by negative thoughts, meditation teaches you to view these thoughts as passing events. You learn to observe them without judgment and let them go without influencing your mood or self-worth.
By training your mind to stay in the present moment instead of dwelling on past regrets or future anxieties, you can manage symptoms of depression more effectively. This increased awareness can also help you identify early signs of a depressive episode, enabling you to take proactive measures to manage your mental health.
Research at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center Stress Reduction Program, found that by combining meditation with psychotherapy, one can simultaneously develop ego strength as well as meaningful experiences of egolessness, even for trauma survivors.
In addition to its mental benefits, research demonstrates that meditation can have positive physical effects, especially in areas connected to depression. It is believed to reduce inflammation, stimulate the vagus nerve, and alter the brain’s shape and size, contributing to improved mood and an enhanced feeling of relaxation.

Meditation Practices for Depression
Various meditation practices have been shown to benefit people experiencing depression. Here are some that you might consider:
● Mindfulness meditation: This practice involves focusing on your present experience with a quality of curious awareness. It helps you notice patterns of rumination and overthinking, enabling you to respond better to them.
● Breathing meditation: Focusing on your breath can help steer your brain away from negative thoughts, improve oxygen intake, and lower cortisol levels.
● Loving-kindness meditation: This form of meditation requires you to focus on happy, loving thoughts about yourself and others. It trains your brain to respond differently to the stressors of depression and cultivates increased feelings of connection with others.
● Body scan meditation: This approach involves slowly bringing awareness to each body part, noticing any sensations and then consciously easing the muscles into relaxation.
● Walking meditation: Walking isn’t just good for your physical health — it’s great for your mental well-being too. Combining it with meditation can help you recognize and appreciate the smells, sights, and sounds of everything around you.
Starting Your Meditation Journey for Depression
Getting started with meditation can be a daunting task, but a few simple steps can set you on the right path. First, find a comfortable and quiet place where you can sit or lie down without distractions. Then, begin focusing on your breath, taking slow, deep breaths and paying attention to the sensations of inhaling and exhaling.
As you become more comfortable with the practice, you can start integrating other meditation techniques, such as body scans, loving-kindness meditation, or mindfulness meditation. Remember, consistency is key – even five minutes a day can make a difference.
While meditation can be a positive experience, it’s important to note that some people may experience adverse side effects, such as increased anxiety. Download our meditation playlist, it offers the various types of meditation and mindfulness practice to get you started.
You can also join our online support group.

Conclusion
Depression is a complex mental health condition that can significantly impact one’s quality of life. While traditional treatments like medication and psychotherapy are essential, incorporating meditation into your self-care regimen can offer additional benefits. From fostering mindfulness to stimulating physical changes in the brain, meditation can be a powerful tool in managing depression.
However, it’s crucial to remember that meditation is not a cure-all solution. It should ideally be used in conjunction with other treatments under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
If you’re struggling with depression, don’t hesitate to seek professional help and explore different treatment options. After all, everyone deserves a path to healing and overall wellbeing.