Brain Function Increases With Transcendental Meditation in ADHD Students

Improved brain functioning and decreased symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder were observed in students practicing the Transcendental Meditation technique, a study found. "We chose the TM technique for this study because studies show that it increases brain function. We wanted to know if it would have a similar effect in the case of ADHD, and if it did, would that also improve the symptoms of ADHD," said principal investigator Sarina J. Grosswald, EdD, a George Washington University-trained cognitive learning specialist.

The Transcendental Meditation technique is an effortless, easy-to-learn practice, unique among categories of meditation. "TM does not require concentration, controlling the mind or disciplined focus-challenges for anyone with ADHD," Grosswald added.

There is substantial research showing the effectiveness of the TM technique for reducing stress and anxiety, and improving cognitive functioning among the general population.

"What's significant about these new findings," Grosswald said, "is that among children who have difficulty with focus and attention, we see the same results.

"The fact that these children are able to do TM, and do it easily, shows us that this technique may be particularly well-suited for children with ADHD," she added.

The study was published recently in Mind and Brain, The Journal of Psychiatry.

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Source-ANI