Meditation extends lifespan

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

The first study of its kind reveals that transcendental meditation is linked to reduced mortality.
Transcendental meditation (TM) is a stress-reduction method based upon quiet contemplation and steady breathing. In the first trial of its impact on longevity, carried out in the USA, TM was compared to progressive relaxation and health education in a group of 202 men and women of average age 71 who had mildly elevated blood pressure. The group was followed for up to 18 years.

Compared to all the controls, those doing TM had a 23 per cent reduction in death rate from all causes, 30 per cent reduction in death from heart disease and a 49 per cent reduction in the rate of cancer death. It is thought that TM reduces blood pressure, stress hormones, and cholesterol levels, which may slow down the aging process.

Source
American Journal of Cardiology 2nd May 2005