Meditation Practice
Benefits of Breathing Meditation
Regular practice of breathing meditation can provide Black men with critical support for both mental and physical well-being. Given the unique stressors Black men face from systemic racism, discrimination, stereotyping, and other societal pressures, having accessible tools to induce relaxation is key. Breathing meditation serves as an ideal self-care ritual to counteract heightened stress responses and cultivate inner resilience.
Specifically, focused breathing techniques stimulate the vagus nerve which signals the body to relax. This lowers blood pressure, heart rate, and inflammation while calming emotional reactivity. Practicing even 5-10 minutes of deep breathing daily can dramatically improve anxiety, depression, anger issues, insomnia, and more. These are all relevant benefits as research shows Black men face barriers around mental health care access and stigma.
Reference
McGee, M. (2008, January). Meditation and psychiatry. Psychiatry (Edgmont (Pa.: Township).