People who meditate regularly feel an enviable sense of calm. Neuroscientists have shown that by altering brain-wave patterns, the discipline purges negative thoughts. Experienced meditators are calmer in their response to daily stress and perform better at tasks that require focused attention. A handful of researchers think the same brain changes could even confer physical benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and preventing disease.

Scientists, as well as practiced meditators such as the Dalai Lama, also want to know how much meditation is needed to achieve these gains. What if 20 minutes, twice a day, were enough? A person could add that to his or her daily routine of 30 minutes on the treadmill and achieve physical and mental harmony.

This article was originally published with the title Science Probes Spirituality.

1 Comments

1. 1. hjsfba 08:36 PM 6/28/09

   Meditation induces the state of calm and eleminates the stress. This results in centered and peaceful mind and healthy body. Meditation also disrupts the cycle of 'chronically active stress response' and help establish a state of homeostasis. Free guided meditation can be tried at
   
   http://www.clicktomeditate.com
   
   For stress reduction following 'mindfulness meditation' can be tried:
   
   http://www.clicktomeditate.com/calm_awareness.html
   
   

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