Can meditation help boost your immune system? When creating a healthy arsenal to support your immune system and fight disease, I bet meditation isn’t the first thing that comes to mind! While it’s always important to consume as many immune-boosting, health-supporting foods, supplements, and healthy habits as possible, there are other lifestyles to focus on – like positive thinking and meditation!
Several studies have found that meditation can boost the immune system.
One such study found that 8 days of 10 hours of meditation supported the genetic activity of genes involved in the immune response. While this type of meditation is not easily replicated, researchers concluded that meditation (in no specifically designated form) may play an important role in improving a weakened immune system.
A systematic review of similar studies found that mindfulness meditation (a type of meditation focused on cultivating awareness of daily life) may support the immune system by improving markers of inflammation and cell-mediated immunity.
Meditation may support the immune system by reducing levels of stress hormones.
Constant stress eating can sabotage your immunity. Several studies have shown that practicing meditation can lower levels of cortisol, also known as the “stress hormone. For example, one study found that a four-day mindfulness meditation program reduced cortisol levels in participants’ blood.
Similarly, a review of studies found that meditation significantly reduced cortisol levels in people with stress.
Meditation may support various markers and genes to support the immune system. Extended relaxation keeps immunity in check; one of the easiest ways to reduce stress, no matter the time of day, is to meditate. Even 10 minutes a day is a great start!