"Recent scientific research suggests meditation benefits both body and mind. It can help with insomnia, anxiety and help manage chronic pain as well as bring psychological benefits such as increased self esteem and spontaneity."

Dr Ian Groves, Psychiatrist

"Anxiety and depression stand out as the illnesses of our age. The symptoms often imitate those of neurological disorders and it is a challenge for specialists to differentiate the physical from the psychological. Any practice such as meditation, that improves self-awareness and conduces to a more healthy emotional condition, can only be welcomed and encouraged. The benefit for both individual and society would be incalculable."

Dr Mark R. Newton, Consultant Neurologist

long term stress can cause serious harm

If the following symptoms persist you really should do something about them.

Behavioural:

• difficulty concentrating
• losing your sense of humour
• difficulty making decisions
• becoming more aggressive
• feeling more socially isolated

Health related:

• no exercise
• drinking more
• smoking more
• eating the wrong foods
• overeating or under eating

Physiological:

• headaches
• frequent colds and flu
• skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis

(Data supplied by The Times)