Abstract

There is growing attention to the health benefits of mind/body interventions, particularly relaxation and meditation. Biomedical research has provided undeniable evidence of the interconnectedness of the mind and body. The field of psychoneuroimmunology has defined the role of stress in reducing effectiveness of the immune system in combating infection and growth of malignant tumors. This article explains the development of meditation practice and explores the indications that the practice of meditation is effective reducing the harmful effects of stress. In addition, there are encouraging reports of studies citing the influence of melatonin on breast and prostate tumors. A preliminary study finds an association between meditation practice and levels of melatonin produced by the pineal gland.