Written by Patrick Massey, M.D., Ph.D. Those who meditate 15 minutes per day generally have lower blood pressure, better sleep, improved health and a better quality of life than those who don’t meditate.
Is it possible to improve health through meditation? The answer is yes. A recent medical study, published in the June issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine, shows for the first time that meditation can improve a number of clinical parameters in patients with an established disease.
In the study, a form of meditation called transcendental meditation was evaluated for its effect on blood pressure, insulin resistance and the heart’s response to stress. Researchers found that the regular practice of transcendental meditation lowered blood pressure, improved insulin resistance and reduced heart rate more effectively then a simple health education program.
Transcendental meditation was first brought to the U.S. by the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. During transcendental meditation, it is believed that the mind and body become peaceful while at the same time maintaining a state of restful alertness.
A number of studies have shown meditation to have significant mental and physical benefits.
Some experts believe that meditation resets the level of responsiveness of the sympathetic as well as parasympathetic nervous system. In general, the sympathetic nervous sys-tem is involved with activities of action, and the parasympathetic nervous system is involved with activities of rest. Meditation may enhance the posi-tive effects of the parasympathetic nervous system and at the same time diminish the negative effects of the sympathetic nervous system.
In the recent study, researchers discovered that meditation also makes the body more responsive to insulin. This means that smaller amounts of insulin are needed to control blood sugar. This is important for non-insulin-dependent diabetics, as well as those with a condition known as metabolic syndrome.
Insulin resistance, obesity, elevated blood pressure and a pro-inflammatory state characterize a condition known as metabolic syndrome. These patients are at a significantly increased risk for heart disease as well as stroke.
The researchers wrote that the “chronic stress of…modern society” has an important role of the development of some diseases. They, and others, believe that the chronic, unrelenting stress in modern society has a direct and causal role in the development of high blood pressure, insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.
Everyone has the ability to meditate. You do not have to sit with your legs crossed in the lotus position and try to let your mind go blank. Meditation can be done at a desk, in the kitchen or even in bed before sleep. Some people reach a meditative state with relaxed physical activity such as walking, yoga, tai chi and various breathing exercises like qigong.
We know that those who meditate on a regular basis are able to handle stress better. They generally have lower blood pressure, better sleep, improved health and a better quality of life. Meditating 15 minutes per day is a good investment in your health.
Posted November 19, 2008.
