1. Time out

One of the top advantages of meditation is that it gives you time out from your busy life. We all need time for ourselves, and it's an investment in your health that you really must make. So dedicate a little time to meditation every day, and enjoy a break from all the stresses and worries of life.

2. Health Benefits

Meditation offers a brilliant boost to your health. It can help avoid or improve many conditions, ranging from high blood pressure to arthritis. Meditating can boost your immune system, lower your blood pressure, and even help your fertility. Isn't it worth trying, to see if it helps any medical problems you have?

3. Relaxation

Do you really know how to relax? That might seem like an odd question, but we're so used to being active that relaxing can be hard to do. Meditation helps you to do just that, not only in itself but also because you are taking time to do 'nothing.' We all need to stop and relax.

4. Better Sleep

Many of us suffer from sleep problems, ranging from waking too early to not being able to get to sleep in the first place. Meditation really does help with this - I tried it myself when I was experiencing poor sleep. Try a session in the morning, and just before you go to bed.

5. Stress Management

Are you suffering from the effects of stress? You really should try meditation - it's an excellent way of managing stress and its effects. Don't let stress take over; instead, take control and work on reducing the effect it has on you. You need to make the effort to care for your health.

6. Looking after Yourself

Most people don't spend nearly enough time looking after their own health and well-being. It should be such a fundamental aspect of our lives. Make meditation a regular part of your routine, and you'll soon see the benefits. Add it to a good diet, exercise and plenty of sleep.

7. Brain Power

According to researchers from the University of Oregon, meditation can give you a boost that lowers your chances of developing mental health problems. It also helps your concentration. Give your brain a gentle workout with meditation, and you'll reap the benefits.

8. Focus

Many people who practise meditation find that it helps them focus. So if you have trouble concentrating or getting work done, meditation may well be helpful to you. Part of the effect comes from dedicating time to your meditation practise, as well as from the meditation itself.

Meditation has been practised for thousands of years, so the benefits are well known. It's best to meditate for at least fifteen minutes twice a day, but any time you can put aside is well spent. The important thing is to make it a regular part of your daily routine. You won't gain anything from just an occasional session. If you meditate, what has it done for you?