Meditation's impact on chronic illness.
Holistic nursing practice January 1, 2003 Ramita Bonadonna 146 citations
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.