It is estimated that up to 80% of all doctor visits are related to stress and its associated health problems.
Stress affects individuals in various ways, and its impact can manifest in numerous forms. For some, stress leads to disrupted sleep, while others may experience anxiety or depression. Stress can also contribute to physical ailments such as digestive issues, headaches, high blood pressure, asthma, or even lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms like excessive use of alcohol, cigarettes, or non-prescribed drugs.
The good news is that Transcendental Meditation has been shown to significantly improve these stress-related issues—without the negative side effects that often accompany pharmaceutical treatments.
Health insurance studies have found that long-term practitioners of Transcendental Meditation experience notably fewer health problems. They require 50% fewer hospital visits and doctor consultations compared to the general population.
Reducing Heart Attacks and Strokes
Heart disease and stroke are two of the leading causes of death, but regular practice of Transcendental Meditation can help reduce these risks. The thickening of artery walls (atherosclerosis), which leads to heart attacks and strokes, has been shown to decrease within 6-12 months of practicing TM—without any changes to diet or lifestyle.
TM also reduces all major risk factors associated with heart disease and stroke, including high blood pressure (hypertension), stress, smoking, unhealthy blood fats, and insulin resistance (a precursor to diabetes).
Remarkably, studies have demonstrated that TM can lower mild to moderate high blood pressure just as effectively as prescription medications—without the harmful side effects.
Recent research indicates that individuals with heart disease who practice TM experience a 50% reduction in heart attacks, strokes, and related deaths.
Slowing the Effects of Ageing
Interestingly, the benefits of Transcendental Meditation extend to slowing the typical effects of aging. Just as a traumatic experience can accelerate the appearance of aging, TM promotes changes that are the opposite—fostering greater vitality.
Practicing TM strengthens factors that contribute to longevity and overall health, such as cardiovascular health, work satisfaction, mental well-being, positive health habits, and cognitive function.
Studies on older adults have shown that those who practice Transcendental Meditation experience improvements in both mental and physical health, as well as enhanced cognitive abilities and overall well-being—contributing to greater longevity.
For more information on the health benefits of learning Transcendental Meditation at our Melbourne North TM centre, please visit our contact page.