Additionally, it is through the practice of meditation that we can obtain measureless meditative bliss, Dharma joy, and many other benefits:
Stress Relief
The stress of daily life comes from the scattered confusion within the mind and our mistaken understanding of the way things are. Meditation quiets the mind and stills our thoughts so that we can return to our intrinsic nature. This helps us to distinguish the correct view from the wrong ones, so that we can rectify our misapprehensions. By correcting our view, the stress of daily life can be dispelled as well.
Improved Health
The sutras say, “When the mind arises, all phenomena arise.” Modern medical science has proven that emotions like worry, greed, and anger play a large part in the illnesses of the human body. Meditation gives us a peaceful temperament, allows us to breathe calmly, and makes us feel refreshed. Meditation also enhances circulation and boosts metabolism. Not only does meditation make us healthier, it can relieve sickness and help us live longer.
Elevated Morality
In today’s society with its technological advances and material abundance, most people spend their days restlessly seeking sensual pleasures, fame, and power. In this way they cloud their minds and lose the sense of who they are. But by befriending meditation we can become our own masters and no longer be slaves to material things. Then we can elevate our own internal sense of morality, and transform our disposition.
Happiness
The Buddha once said, “Meditation enables us to abide in Dharma joy within the world.” Dharma joy is a wonderful kind of happiness that is produced from the tranquil mind. Such joy cannot be compared to the five desires of everyday existence: wealth, sex, fame, food, and sleep. All those who diligently practice sitting meditation can obtain bliss.