Since scientific study of meditation began, many physiological, psychological and social benefits have been revealed.
Physiological studies show that meditation produces a very deep relaxation in the body while the mind stays alert. This relaxation helps the body repair its wear and tear, so many ailments are checked rather than allowed to aggravate, improving overall health. Meditation is not a substitute for medication, but it acts as a catalyst that improves the efficacy of medicine — and a healthier body helps the practitioner feel mentally better too.
The first system affected by meditation is the brain and nervous system. Repetition of the word of meditation reduces mental activity considerably, lowering the pressure on the brain and nervous system so they relax. Tensions, pressures and stresses operating on the nervous system are then released and flushed out, improving its functioning. Because the mind is closely linked to the brain and nervous system, the practitioner’s state of mind improves with it.
Gradually the practitioner shows less anger and irritability, more tolerance, greater acceptance of others’ views, more adaptability and flexibility, increased self-confidence and self-control, better self-management and a calmer, less agitated mind.
With improved mental faculties comes improved social behaviour. Meditation gradually reduces fundamental negative traits — pride and prejudice, excessive anger, desire, selfishness, arrogance, infatuation and jealousy — changing a person’s thinking and attitude towards family, friends, society and the world. The practitioner becomes more humane and socially responsible. Even one who does not contribute greatly to society will, by becoming a positive person, no longer be a drag or parasite on it — and that itself contributes to a better social order. If one person becomes better, some bad is reduced in the world. Meditation is therefore a tool to change society for the better and to bring back lost human values.
Regular practice of universal meditation results in
- A stable physiological base for controlling diabetes, blood pressure and heart problems, alongside medication
- Elimination of the tensions, pressures and stresses of day-to-day life
- Increased tolerance and reduced irritability
- Reduction of pain, sorrow, anger and frustration
- Elimination of perversions of mind and suicidal tendencies
- Increased calmness of mind (peace)
- Improved concentration, memory, grasping power and positive thinking
- Increased self-confidence and self-control
- Better physical health and a tension-free life
- Better social behaviour through greater stability, adaptability and flexibility
- Flushing out of the radio-frequency electromagnetic waves accumulated in the brain and body through use of cell phones, computers and other electronic devices