The benefits of meditation have been studied and documented by over seven hundred scientific studies. Meditation is not a religion, it is simply a specific method of quiet reflection that produces changes in the brain that have a positive effect on the total health of the individual.
A twenty five year study of people who meditate conducted by the National Institute of Health, Office of Alternative Medicine resulted in the following specific health findings:
PMS symptoms decreased by 57%. Migraine headaches decreased. Anxiety and depression reduced significantly. Working people missed fewer days do to illness. Aids and Cancer patients experienced decreased symptoms. 75% of patients with insomnia were cured with the remaining 25% reporting significant improvement. Patients with chronic pain required an average of 36 % less treatment. Patients with high blood pressure recovered completely or improved.
The benefits of meditation are documented in study after study. Meditation achieves the following biological and behavioral changes:
Brain • Increases the functioning of the prefrontal cortex connections to the executive decision making portions of our brain. • Produces better reasoning abilities and decision making that plans for the long term • Increases memory and ability to concentrate and focus • Rigid thinking gives way to flexible creative problem-solving • Behavior shifts from being impulsive-reactive to proactive • Reduces the harmful effects of stress, fear and anger.
Total Health • Lowers blood pressure, pulse rate, cholesterol and atherosclerosis • Increases functioning of the immune system • Creates energy and vitality • Beneficial for eating and sleeping disorders • Builds self-confidence • Creates a positive attitude, happiness and fulfillment