Many studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of meditation.  Some of these benefits include:  lowering cholesterol levels, reversing arteriosclerosis (hardened arteries), lowering blood pressure levels, reducing angina (chest pain), lowering levels of stress hormones in the blood, lessening fatigue, altering brain wave patterns reflective of a calmer state, lessening anxiety and depression, reducing insomnia, improving muscle and joint pain, strengthening the immune system, lessening craving type behaviors like smoking, and increasing overall confidence, awareness and general health.