Meditation: The science of deep rest for yogis and wellness seekers

If you’ve ever rolled up your yoga mat after a practice and settled into meditation, you probably know the feeling: a sense of calm, clarity, and inner peace. But have you ever wondered what’s actually happening in your body during those quiet moments? Fascinating scientific research from the early 1970s offers real proof that meditation isn’t just relaxing - it actually changes your body in unique and measurable ways.

Back in the early days of meditation research, a group of scientists set out to explore what happens inside us when we meditate. They focused on a popular technique called Transcendental Meditation (TM), which, much like many yogic practices, involves sitting comfortably with your eyes closed and gently repeating a mantra for about 15–20 minutes, twice a day. No special equipment, no strict rules - just you, your breath, and a little time to yourself.

What emerged from their research was nothing short of remarkable. During meditation, participants’ bodies entered what scientists described as a “wakeful hypometabolic state.” While that sounds technical, it simply means that meditators were fully awake and alert, yet their bodies were resting more deeply than usual - almost as if they were asleep, but without losing consciousness.

To uncover this, researchers measured everything from oxygen consumption and breathing rate to blood pressure, heart rate, and even brain waves. During meditation, oxygen consumption dropped by 17 percent on average, and breathing slowed down - levels of rest typically seen only during sleep or hibernation! Blood lactate levels, which can rise with stress and muscle tension, also fell, and skin resistance - a sign of relaxation - increased significantly.

Interestingly, blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature stayed about the same. This means the deep rest that meditation brings isn’t because your heart is slowing down or your body temperature is dropping, like in sleep. Instead, it’s a unique state of calm alertness, where both your body and mind are at ease.

The brain, too, revealed signs of this special state. There was an increase in slow alpha waves and occasional theta waves - patterns linked to relaxation, creativity, and that “in the zone” feeling yogis often experience after a good practice.

So, what does all this mean for yoga and wellness enthusiasts? Meditation turns out to be much more than just a mental break or a way to de-stress. It’s a practice that brings about real, positive changes in your body - changes you can measure and feel. And the best part? No need to overhaul your lifestyle, diet, or beliefs. All it takes is a comfortable seat, a few quiet minutes, and a willingness to let go.

This research, now over 50 years old, remains a cornerstone in our understanding of meditation’s power. It confirms what yogis have known for centuries: meditation is a full-body experience that nourishes both mind and body, helping you tap into a state of restful alertness that supports your overall well-being.

One of the most exciting insights from this scientific exploration is the idea that meditation creates a “third state” of consciousness - something truly different from both ordinary wakefulness and sleep. During Transcendental Meditation, the body enters this unique condition, where deep physical rest is combined with clear, alert awareness. For the yoga and wellness community, this is powerful validation. Meditation isn’t just relaxing or zoning out - it’s a scientifically measurable state that brings together the best of both worlds: deep physical restoration and mental clarity.

This “third state” could be the reason so many yogis and meditators report feeling refreshed, creative, and centered after their practice. Knowing that meditation can reliably produce this special state opens up new possibilities for how we approach our yoga and mindfulness routines. It’s not just about stress relief; it’s about actively cultivating a unique, health-promoting condition that modern science is only beginning to understand.

So next time you finish your yoga flow and settle into meditation, remember - you’re not just taking a break. You’re entering a state of being that’s as extraordinary as it is beneficial, giving your body and mind a scientifically proven boost, one breath at a time.

Tips for yoga practitioners:

Make Meditation a Daily Habit
Just 15–20 minutes of meditation twice daily can create deep physical rest and mental alertness. Try meditating after yoga or before bed in a comfortable seated position with eyes closed.

Focus on Ease, Not Effort
Meditation should be natural and effortless. Don’t force your mind silent; let thoughts pass and gently focus on your breath or a mantra.

Appreciate the Unique State
Meditation produces a distinct "third state" of consciousness, offering deep rest and mental clarity. Recognize this to deepen motivation and gratitude.

Incorporate these practices into your routine to boost physical health and mental well-being.

Inspired by the research of R.K. Wallace & colleagues, The American journal of physiology, 1971

doi: 10.1152/ajplegacy.1971.221.3.795