Live Longer With Transcendental Meditation

(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- A long-term study shows the Transcendental Meditation technique reduces death rates by 23 percent and extends lifespan.

The technique, founded by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, is a non-drug stress-reduction method. It is practiced for 15 to 20 minutes in the morning and evening and emphasizes an experience of "restful alertness."

In the study, 202 men and women, with an average age of 71, who had mildly elevated blood pressure were randomized. They either participated in the Transcendental Meditation program, performed behavioral techniques like mindfulness or progressive muscle relaxation, or received health education. They were tracked for 18 years, and vital statistics were obtained from the National Death Index.

Researchers from the Center of Natural Medicine and Prevention at Maharishi University of Management in Fairfield, Iowa, found compared to combined controls, the Transcendental Meditation group had a 23-percent reduction in deaths, a 30-percent reduction in the rate of death from heart disease, and a 49-percent reduction in the rate of death from cancer.

Researchers say, "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. These reductions slow the aging process and promote the long-term reductions in death rates."

This article was reported by Ivanhoe.com, who offers Medical Alerts by e-mail every day of the week. To subscribe, go to: http://www.ivanhoe.com/newsalert/.

SOURCE: The American Journal of Cardiology, 2005;95:1060-1064