Our blood contains several types of white blood cells that protect us under stress or infection. Normally, these cells increase when the body is under pressure—like a defense mode.
Interestingly, recreational runners who practiced Acem Meditation daily had lower baseline levels of certain white blood cells compared to similar runners who did not meditate.
Yet, after a tough half-marathon, their white blood cell count increased normally—just like non-meditators.
This suggests that meditation may lower the body’s baseline stress, while keeping its defense response fully intact.
Links
Learn more about research on nondirective meditation. Explore in-depth studies and summaries of research findings at: nondirectiveresearch.org
Research references
Solberg EE, Halvorsen R, Holen A. Effect of meditation on immune cells. Stress Medicine. 2000;16:185-90.