Meditation's impact on chronic illness.

Meditation, rooted in Buddhist psychology and also explained by Western theories such as Jungian psychology and the relaxation response, can reduce anxiety, pain, depression, and stress while enhancing mood and self-esteem. Clinical studies have examined meditation in populations with fibromyalgia, cancer, hypertension, and psoriasis. Although earlier research was small and lacked controls, the quality and quantity of valid studies are growing. Meditation can positively influence the experience of chronic illness and serve as a prevention strategy. Health professionals can encourage this self-care practice and teach simple mindfulness techniques in clinical settings.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Meditation is becoming widely popular as an adjunct to conventional medical therapies. This article reviews the literature regarding the experience of chronic illness, theories about meditation, and clinical effects of this self-care practice. Eastern theories of meditation include Buddhist psychology. The word Buddha means the awakened one, and Buddhist meditators have been called the first scientists, alluding to more than 2500 years of precise, detailed observation of inner experience. The knowledge that comprises Buddhist psychology was derived inductively from the historical figure's (Prince Siddhartha Gautama) diligent self-inquiry. Western theories of meditation include Jungian, Benson's relaxation response, and transpersonal psychology. Clinical effects of meditation impact a broad spectrum of physical and psychological symptoms and syndromes, including reduced anxiety, pain, and depression, enhanced mood and self-esteem, and decreased stress. Meditation has been studied in populations with fibromyalgia, cancer, hypertension, and psoriasis. While earlier studies were small and lacked experimental controls, the quality and quantity of valid research is growing. Meditation practice can positively influence the experience of chronic illness and can serve as a primary, secondary, and/or tertiary prevention strategy. Health professionals demonstrate commitment to holistic practice by asking patients about use of meditation, and can encourage this self-care activity. Simple techniques for mindfulness can be taught in the clinical setting. Living mindfully with chronic illness is a fruitful area for research, and it can be predicted that evidence will grow to support the role of consciousness in the human experience of disease.