From foodconsumer.org
Transcendental Meditation extends lifespan, Study
By Steven Yellin
May 3, 2005, 02:35
Transcendental Meditation (TM) technique, a non-drug relaxation or stress-reduction method, reduces death rates by 23% and extends lifespan in the elderly, according to a study published in the May 2, 2005 issue of American Journal of Cardiology.
Researchers evaluated 202 men and women aged at 71 on average with mildly elevated blood pressure. Participants were involved in the Transcendental Meditation program; behavioral techniques, such as mindfulness or progressive muscle relaxation; or health education for up to 18 years. Vital statistics were obtained from the National Death Index.
The study found that compared to combined controls, the TM group showed:
• 23% reduction in the rate of death from all causes
• 30% reduction in the rate of death from cardiovascular disease
• 49% reduction in the rate of death from cancer
Transcendental Meditation Reduces Risk Factors in Heart Disease
"Research has found the Transcendental Meditation program reduces risk factors in heart disease and other chronic disorders, such as high blood pressure, smoking, psychological stress, stress hormones, harmful cholesterol, and atherosclerosis," said Robert Schneider, M.D., FACC, principal author of the study and director of the Center of Natural Medicine and Prevention. "These reductions slow the aging process and promote the long-term reductions in death rates."
The study was conducted by researchers from Harvard, University of Iowa, Medical College of Georgia, West Oakland Health Center, and Maharishi University of Management.
Contact: Steven Yellin
syellin@mum.edu
641-470-1319
Center for Natural Medicine and Prevention
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