Research involving Maharishi International University, the University of Siegen, and the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences highlights the benefits of long-term Transcendental Meditation on stress reduction and aging.
The study compared gene expression, cognitive function measured by EEG, and hormonal analysis between long-term TM practitioners and non-meditators.
TM practitioners showed reduced levels of the inflammation-associated gene SOCS3, which may indicate lower stress and healthier aging.
Older TM practitioners exhibited cognitive processing speeds similar to younger individuals, challenging expectations of age-related cognitive decline.
Participants practicing TM had lower cortisol to cortisone ratios, suggesting increased resilience to stress and potential for better stress management.
The research emphasizes the holistic benefits of long-term TM practice on both physical health and cognitive performance, supporting previous studies on meditation's health benefits.
Future studies aim to explore how meditation impacts energy metabolism and inflammation pathways, offering possibilities for refining stress and aging management approaches.
The findings suggest widespread adoption of meditation practices like TM could positively influence public health by enhancing resilience and combating modern stressors.
As evidence grows regarding the benefits of meditation, integrating these practices into healthcare programs may become more prevalent for promoting overall well-being.
This study contributes to a deeper understanding of how meditation practices, specifically TM, can have profound effects on both biological health and psychological well-being.