New research suggests that Transcendental Meditation (TM) can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in Black adults at high risk. The study followed nearly 200 participants over 14 years, comparing the effects of practicing TM twice daily with attending regular health education sessions.
The results show that, after five years, the TM group had a 65% relative reduction in major cardiovascular events compared to the health education group. While this benefit persisted at the 10-year mark, the difference lost statistical significance after 14 years. Both groups experienced a slight improvement in carotid intima-media thickness, though no meaningful difference was seen between them.
Researchers noted that TM induces a deep physiological rest, enhances brain coherence, and reduces stress—factors known to impact heart health. “Our findings replicate and expand on previous NIH-funded research,” said lead author Dr. Robert Schneider. “Reducing stress through meditation delivers real, lasting benefits.”
The study focused on African American patients, a population that often faces structural barriers to accessing care. However, earlier research suggests TM offers similar cardiovascular benefits in white populations as well.
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