The biological dimensions of transcendent states: A randomized controlled trial.
Front Psychol September 8, 2022 Dawson Church, Amy Yang, Jeffrey Fannin et al. 5 citations
A meditation workshop led to measurable biological and psychological improvements. Participants who attended a 4-day guided meditation showed a 49.5% median increase in salivary immunoglobulin-A, a marker of immune function, and brainwave changes indicating sustained stress reduction (increased delta waves, decreased high beta, faster alpha state acquisition). Psychological symptoms including anxiety, pain, and PTSD improved, and at six-month follow-up happiness and feelings of oneness increased while depressive symptoms decreased. Cortisol levels did not change. The findings suggest that meditation and transcendent states produce measurable biological and psychological health benefits.