A randomized controlled trial on effects of the Transcendental Meditation program on blood pressure, psychological distress, and coping in young adults

Source: American Journal of Hypertension, December 2009

A study on the effects of Transcendental Meditation (TM) on the body found that the practice can positively impact the physical and psychological wellbeing of young adults. College students were randomly assigned to a TM group or a control group, and those in the TM group (a three-month program) experienced positive health outcomes.

The students who meditated saw decreases in their blood pressure associated with decreased psychological distress, and those at risk for hypertension developed better coping skills. Students in the control group saw no changes in physical and/or psychological health. The study suggests mind-body programs can reduce risk for future development of hypertension in young adults.