Can self-worth be improved? Or can ‘Self’ be improved? The answer is both no and yes. No, because our deeper self is always there, ever-changing yet perfect as it is. Yes, because we can always find ways to improve our understanding and relationship with this deeper, larger self. By improving the communication with our deeper self, we make it possible for it to express itself in a harmonious and joyful manner. Once we are connected to our deeper self (beyond the shallow labels of daily life, work titles, etc.), we become more grounded, rested, secured and confident, just like a tree with deeper roots invariably stands tall, confident and secure.
Meditation is a pretty effective way of fine-tuning relationship with one’s self and consequently improving self-esteem and self-worth. One recent research study published in Person Centered and Experimental Psychotherapies reports that a short training in mindfulness (90 minute session) had a significant effect “…on the self-reporting of self-esteem, mindful attention awareness and general anxiety disorder”.
Although traditional idea of self-esteem has been called into question by various scientific reports including Scientific American, because its emphasis on attempting to improve largely external (and therefore temporary and dependent on constant external gratification leading to addictive behavior) aspect of our daily life. Meditation, on the other hand, trains us to dip deeper into our being and become connected to the pristine awareness on which life is built. That often leads to happier, confident and secure living.
If you or someone you know feel challenged by these or other related psychological issues, learning the technique of mindfulness may be helpful. Research, so far, has been very supportive on the value of mindfulness as self-administered therapeutic technique with numerous side benefits.
