Acute increases in night-time plasma melatonin levels following a period of meditation

Author(s): Armstrong, S. M., Norman, T. R., Sali, A.

Journal/Book: Biol Psychol. 2000; 53: PO Box 211, 1000 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands. Elsevier Science Bv. 69-78.

Abstract: To determine whether a period of meditation could influence melatonin levels, two groups of meditators were tested in a repeated measures design for changes in plasma melatonin levels at midnight. Experienced meditators practising either TM-Sidhi or another internationally well known form of yoga showed significantly higher plasma melatonin levels in the period immediately following meditation compared with the same period at the same time on a control night. It is concluded that meditation, at least in the two forms studied here, can affect plasma melatonin levels. It remains to be determined whether this is achieved through decreased hepatic metabolism of the hormone or via a direct effect on pineal physiology. Either way, facilitation of higher physiological melatonin levels at appropriate times of day might be one avenue through which the claimed health promoting effects of meditation occur.

Note: Article Tooley GA, Deakin Univ, Sch Psychol, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Vic 3125, AUSTRALIA

Keyword(s): circadian rhythms; meditation; melatonin; pineal; relaxation; TM-SIDHI PROGRAM; TRANSCENDENTAL-MEDITATION; PHYSICAL STRESS; PINEAL-GLAND; LIGHT; HUMANS; CORTICOSTERONE; SECRETION; RESPONSES; BEHAVIOR

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