Alleviating Depression
In modern times, depression has reached epidemic proportions, especially among women, but Nurses suffer depression at twice the rate of the general population.
Many experts concur that stress is the main cause of the psycho-physiological imbalances that engender depression.
Today, in addition to demanding nursing jobs, female nurses are often additionally responsible for the majority of housework and childcare, making them more vulnerable to stress and depression.
For those seeking effective evidence-based natural alternatives to anti-depressants, both published research and anecdotal evidence on the Transcendental Meditation technique indicate significant promise.
Research finds 50% reduction in depression
Depressive symptoms decreased by almost 50% over a 12-month period among people practicing the Transcendental Meditation technique, compared to controls, according to a study by researchers at University of California Los Angeles. [1]
TM increases happiness and contentment
During the practice of the TM technique, experiences of expanding happiness, inner contentment and well-being take place as the mind settles within and stress and fatigue dissolve. With regular twice-daily meditation, this state becomes a pervasive feature of daily life. Additionally, depression is associated with low levels of serotonin; published research shows that the TM technique increases serotonin in subjects whose serotonin is too low.
“Severely depressed people often believe they will never feel better. Because the TM technique gives us a feeling of fulfillment and calmness, it also gives hope.”
Dr. Nancy Leibler
Author of Healing Depression the Mind-Body Way,
1 Transcendental Meditation, Reduced Symptoms of Depression Randomized Controlled Mind-Body Intervention Trials, Nidich, S., Toomey, M., Myers, H., Grandinetti, A., Rainforth, M., Salerno, J., Gaylord-King, C., Schneider, R. Maharishi University of Management, U.C.L.A., University of Hawaii 31st Annual Meeting of the Society of Behavioral Medicine, Seattle, Washington, April 9th, 2010.