A recent study suggests that long-term meditation might be a powerful way to ease stress and even slow down the aging process. Researchers from Maharishi International University, the University of Siegen, and the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences looked into transcendental meditation, a practice where folks silently repeat a mantra to reach a state of deep relaxation. Kenneth Walton, a senior researcher at MIU, shared with Fox News Digital that these findings back up other studies showing that transcendental meditation can undo or lessen the lasting impacts of stress.
The study involved two groups of participants: one group aged between 20 to 30 years and another group aged 55 to 72. Half of them practiced transcendental meditation while the other half did not. The researchers looked at the genes linked to inflammation and aging and found that those who meditated had lower levels of these genes.
Walton explained to Fox News that the reduction in age-related gene expression suggests that these meditation practices contribute to healthier aging and better stress management. The researchers also examined cognitive function using EEG tests, revealing that older folks who meditated processed information faster. They scored higher on the Brain Integration Scale, matching the performance of much younger non-meditators.
The study also looked at hair cortisol and cortisone, which are hormones indicating long-term stress. Meditators showed a lower cortisol-to-cortisone ratio, implying better stress resilience and overall health. However, Walton mentioned a limitation in the study: there wasn’t a placebo control group, and most participants lived in the same region.
Dave Asprey, a biohacker and author, believes meditation can indeed slow down aging. He described meditation as “weightlifting for the brain,” suggesting it enhances brain function by generating more electrical activity. Asprey emphasized that meditation could help with stress reduction and potentially slow dementia, echoing findings that meditation can outperform antidepressants in some cases.
Asprey highlighted that effective meditation starts with the body, not just the mind. He recommends beginners try a body scan technique, which involves focusing on different body parts while breathing deeply. This practice can help calm the nervous system and improve overall well-being.
The misconception that all meditation practices suit everyone is something Asprey warns against. He noted that not every meditation style is right for every individual. Different approaches might work for different people, and that’s perfectly okay. Asprey advised those starting meditation to communicate with their healthcare providers, especially if they’re on medication.
For those exploring meditation, Asprey’s insights underscore the diverse and personalized nature of the practice. By understanding these nuances, individuals can find the meditation style that best supports their health and lifestyle.
