The three pillars of living healthily with diabetes are diet, exercise, and medication. These are frequently suggested as first-line treatments by healthcare professionals. 

However, there’s another tool that can help in diabetes management: Meditation.  

According to research, meditation can help people with diabetes by increasing self-awareness, regulating their emotions, and reducing stress. 

 You might also find it a little bit simpler to adopt all the lifestyle habits necessary for treating diabetes if you start meditating. 

So, what is meditation?  

Meditation is about developing self-awareness and a sound sense of perspective. Instead of trying to suppress your emotions or thoughts, you are working towards developing the ability to look at things without judgment.  

How does meditation benefit people with diabetes?  

• Regulates body systems that balance insulin production and, thereby, controls blood sugar levels 
• Reduces both mental and physical (bodily) stress 
• May help reduce the cell-damaging oxidative stress that your body experiences due to insulin resistance and high blood sugar levels 
• Enhances the performance of the immune system 
• Decreases inflammatory response 

Diabetes can impact several body parts, including feet, eyes, blood vessels, and the neural system. It can also cause chronic pain in these parts. 

While more research is needed, it is possible that meditation could help patients with diabetes feel lesser discomfort.  

You may use meditation in diabetes management in several different ways. There are many advantages to meditation, whether you want to be more aware of your eating habits or wish to reduce stress. 

However, before beginning, make sure to talk to your healthcare provider. 

Also, as you experiment with a meditation schedule that works best for you, be mindful and give yourself some time.