10-year meta-analysis shows consistent and significant
effect
A quantitative meta-analysis was performed on 27 qualifying research studies done over a 10 year time period,
from 1997 through 2007. The studies focused on the physical component of meditation, which is called "the
relaxation response", the physical experience from meditation.
The results of the meta-analysis demonstrated consistent
and significant clinical effects of anxiety reduction with meditation. All types of patients achieved
effects, including individuals with psychological diagnoses and individuals with medical diagnoses, as well as healthy volunteers.
In addition, the effect was significant for both young and old study participants.
BMC Psychiatry, 2008
Authors: Gian Manoni, Francesco Pagnini, Gianluca Castelnuovo,
Enrico Molinari