Meditation has been practised for thousands of years and has recently gained popularity in the Western world as a tool for promoting health and well-being. While some may view meditation sceptically, numerous studies have shown that it can profoundly impact physical and mental health. This article will explore the three main benefits of meditating for your health, supported by medical studies.
- Reduces Stress and Anxiety
One of meditation’s most widely recognised benefits is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. For example, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that mindfulness meditation can lead to a significant reduction in symptoms of anxiety and depression. Additionally, a meta-analysis of 47 studies found that meditation can lead to a moderate decrease in cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress.
Meditation has also been found to reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A study published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress found that veterans who practised Transcendental meditation for three months experienced significant reductions in symptoms of PTSD, as well as depression and anxiety.
- Lowers Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common health problem that can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Meditation has been shown to have a beneficial effect on blood pressure, even in individuals with hypertension.
A study published in the American Journal of Hypertension found that Transcendental Meditation can significantly reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Similarly, a meta-analysis of 19 studies found that meditation can dramatically lower blood pressure.
- Improves Cognitive Function
Meditation has also been found to positively impact cognitive function, including attention, memory, and executive function. For example, a study published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience found that participants who practised mindfulness meditation for just four days significantly improved working memory and executive function.
Additionally, meditation has been shown to be effective in reducing age-related cognitive decline. For example, a study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that participants who practised Kirtan Kriya meditation for 12 minutes a day for eight weeks experienced significant improvements in memory and cognitive function and reduced symptoms of depression.
Meditation has numerous health benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, lowering blood pressure, and improving cognitive function. These benefits are supported by multiple medical studies, indicating that meditation can be an effective tool for promoting overall health and well-being. If you want to incorporate meditation into your daily routine, consider speaking with a healthcare provider or a qualified meditation instructor to get started.
