Great report from the power of meditation:
Some kind of meditative practice is found in all the world’s religions, says Shauna Shapiro of Santa Clara (Calif.) University, co-author with Linda Carlson of the new book “The Art and Science of Mindfulness”. Most include focusing attention and letting thoughts and emotions go by without judgment or becoming involved. Kabat-Zinn credits “a colossal shift in acceptance” to accelerating research on the benefits of meditation. Studies suggest the practice can ease pain, improve concentration and immune function, lower blood pressure, curb anxiety and insomnia, and possibly even help prevent depression. Newer research tools, such as high-tech brain scans, show how meditation might have diverse effects. – from Baxter