Study reveals gene expression changes with meditation

by Jill Sakai, Univ of Wisconsin, Dec. 4, 2013

Wisconsin, USA -- With evidence growing that meditation can have beneficial health effects, scientists have sought to understand how these practices physically affect the body.

Aversion, Attachment, and Addiction

by Elizabeth Critton, The Easier, Softer Way, Aug 18, 2013

Venice, California (USA) -- Recovering from drug addiction is often a difficult and painful process. We spend years of our lives running from every thought and emotion that arises. Intoxicants are the illusion of the perfect solution. We believe we have found the quieted and peaceful mind that we are looking for.

Taking a Zen Approach to Caregiving

By JUDITH GRAHAM, The New York Times, January 11, 2013

New York, USA -- You try to help your elderly father. Irritated and defensive, he snaps at you instead of going along with your suggestion. And you think “this is so unfair” and feel a rising tide of anger.

Application of Buddhist principles can help reduce stress and improve mental health

By Shelton Gunaratne, LankaWeb, January 31, 2013

Colombo, Sri Lanka -- With the rapid spread of Buddhism in the western United States, boosted by increased immigration from Asia, Americans should consider applying Buddhist principles to solve their everyday problems. Although Buddhism has two major sects - Theravada and Mahayana - both agree on the crux of Buddhist philosophy based on the Four Noble Truths (FNT), the Noble Eightfold Path (NEP), and the associated 12-factor formula of conditioned genesis (paticca samuppada).

Tales from a Buddhist meditation retreat

BY DHAMMARUCHI WILLIAM B. EDWARDS, MISSOURIAN READER, January 17, 2013

Reverend Dhammaruchi William B. Edwards is the founder of the Vipassana Buddhist Church/Center for Buddhist Development in Jefferson City.

Jefferson City, MO (USA) -- Meditation is the core teaching of the Buddha to address the Four Noble Truths of Suffering. There are two basic types of meditative practice in Buddhism: concentration meditation (Samatha) and mindfulness meditation (Vipassana).