Mindfulness Meditation Really Does Reduce Pain

A new study links mindfulness meditation to a reduction in physical pain intensity and unpleasantness.

A new study has found that mindfulness meditation can significantly reduce the intensity and unpleasantness of physical pain. The study, which was published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine, is the first to examine the effects of mindfulness meditation on pain in a randomized controlled trial.

The study included 240 participants with chronic pain. The participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: a mindfulness meditation group, a relaxation group, or a control group. The mindfulness meditation group was taught to practice mindfulness meditation for 30 minutes each day, while the relaxation group was taught to practice a relaxation technique called progressive muscle relaxation for 30 minutes each day. The control group did not receive any treatment.

The results of the study showed that the mindfulness meditation group experienced a significant reduction in pain intensity and unpleasantness compared to the relaxation group and the control group.

The mindfulness meditation group also experienced a significant improvement in their quality of life and their ability to function in daily activities.

The researchers believe that mindfulness meditation works to reduce pain by helping people to become more aware of their pain and to accept it. This can help people to reduce their resistance to pain, which can lead to a reduction in pain intensity and unpleasantness.

Mindfulness meditation is a simple and effective way to reduce pain and improve quality of life. It is a safe and inexpensive practice that can be easily learned and practiced by anyone.

Here are some tips for practicing mindfulness meditation:

• Find a quiet place to sit or lie down.
• Close your eyes and focus on your breath.
• Notice the rise and fall of your breath as you inhale and exhale.
• If your mind wanders, gently bring it back to your breath.
• Continue meditating for 30 minutes or longer.

You can also practice mindfulness meditation by focusing on other things, such as your body sensations, your thoughts, or your emotions. The key is to be present and aware of your experience without judgment.

If you are new to mindfulness meditation, you may want to start with a shorter practice time, such as 5 or 10 minutes. You can gradually increase the length of your practice time as you become more comfortable.

Mindfulness meditation is a powerful tool that can help you to reduce pain, improve your quality of life, and live a more mindful and fulfilling life.