Meditation Increase Alertness

A study conducted by University of Kentucky researchers found that meditation might be as effective as sleep in raising a person's level of alertness, and members of the University say they agree with the finding.

According to a report of the study published in The New York Times, meditation might improve alertness and even serve as an equivalent of sleep.

The researchers, led by Prashant Kaul of the University of Kentucky, found that one area in which meditation is more effective than other methods is improving one's reaction time.

The study tested students before and after 40 minutes of meditation, napping or exercising or consuming caffeine.

Patricia Whelan, who teaches a non-credit meditation course at the College Avenue Gym, said she agreed with the study's results.

"Absolutely, I've noticed there's a correlation between meditating and one's level of alertness," she said.

"Meditation allows one to have more control over their thoughts," Whelan said, which leads to increased focus and alertness. "It also helps keep outside stimulants to a minimum, which also helps you stay more focused."

The study also reported that subjects who skipped a night of sleep and then took the test after meditation performed even better than their counterparts who had slept. This suggests meditation could be used as an alternative to sleep.

Rutgers College first-year student Brian Shlosberg said while he hasn't been sleeping any less since he began meditation, he has found it effective in curing mild insomnia. "I fall asleep so much more easily since I began," he said.

Shlosberg also said he experienced a higher level of alertness. "Ever since I began meditating, I have become more alert to otherwise forgettable things," he said.

Shlosberg said he views meditation as a type of medicine, and he believes it will be extremely helpful in his future.

"I feel meditation will cure any and all psychological or social problems I will face in the future," he said.

In addition to increased alertness and focus, Whelan said other benefits of meditation include reduced stress, a lower and more stable blood pressure and a decrease in brain wave patterns.

According to other studies, experienced meditators may be able to intervene before a fight or flight response takes over, and may even be able to redirect anxiety into more constructive or positive feelings. Studies also link meditation to increased activity in the left prefrontal cortex of the brain, which is associated with concentration, planning and positive feelings.