the aggregate opinion was that there is moderate evidence that meditation has been shown to improve anxiety. The difficulty with this analysis is that they were comparing different types of meditation and for various amounts of time. Individual studies of mindfulnessbased meditation, transcendental meditation, and Benson-Henry Relaxation Response meditationâall show successful results in reducing anxiety scores, reducing the number of panic attacks, and lowering blood pressure, heart rate, and pain scores. Meditation is one of several mindbody techniques that can improve the lives of those who experience anxiety. In my own life, weaning myself from caffeine, practicing yoga, and receiving reiki treatments also contributed to my healing. If you experience anxiety, consider what it is telling you about the choices you are making and consider exploring meditation or other mind-body techniques that might help you find your center. The impact of anxiety is a conversation we need to have more frequently with one another. If someone has anxiety, there has to be no shame in talking about it.
PiN K ⢠S UM M ER 2015
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