Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness is a form of meditation. When performing mindfulness, people try to focus their whole attention on their thoughts and how their body is reacting in this present moment.
Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) is a program in which mindful meditation is performed to help patients manage severe pain and stress, both of which have a great effect on the immune system.
A study investigated whether MBSR could help in the reduction of disease activity in arthritic patients by boosting the immune system. A total group of 51 participants who took part in the study, were divided into two subgroups. The first subgroup of 26 participants completed an 8-week program of MBSR while the other group of 25 people received no treatment.
Participants who took part in MBSR showed a reduction in symptoms of RA, including pain, the number of swollen and tender joints, and early morning stiffness. Participants reported these improvements last up to 6 months later.