Transcendental meditation is a practice designed to quiet the mind by doing such things as repeating a word or sound over and over.
Study participants who meditated for 20 minutes, twice a day, over a five-year period were 48 percent less likely to have a heart attack, stroke or die as compared to African American heart patients who did not meditate.
The non-meditating group attended a health education class. They were told to engage in heart-healthy behaviors at home for at least 20 minutes a day, such as exercising, preparing healthy meals or relaxing.
In the end, those who meditated also lowered their blood pressure, along with their levels of stress and anger.
Researchers say transcendental meditation appears to be a "technique that turns on the body's own pharmacy to repair and maintain itself."
While this study was looking at African Americans specifically, anyone can benefit.
Experts say that transcendental meditation may reduce heart disease risks in healthy people as well.
Study participants who meditated for 20 minutes, twice a day, over a five-year period were 48 percent less likely to have a heart attack, stroke or die as compared to African American heart patients who did not meditate.
The non-meditating group attended a health education class. They were told to engage in heart-healthy behaviors at home for at least 20 minutes a day, such as exercising, preparing healthy meals or relaxing.
In the end, those who meditated also lowered their blood pressure, along with their levels of stress and anger.
Researchers say transcendental meditation appears to be a "technique that turns on the body's own pharmacy to repair and maintain itself."
While this study was looking at African Americans specifically, anyone can benefit.
Experts say that transcendental meditation may reduce heart disease risks in healthy people as well.
