The art of meditation is the oldest method of calming the mind and relaxing the body. Meditation is, in essence, the systematic training of attention. It aims to develop the ability to concentrate and enrich our perception. Perhaps the main effect of meditation is to provide your body with deep rest, while your mind remains alert. This lowers blood pressure and slows the heart rate, helping your body recover from stress. Many doctors use meditation as part of the treatment of disorders such as high blood pressure, headaches, back pain, and anxiety problems, and to control or reduce chronic pain. The deep rest provided by meditation brings another benefit: it strengthens the immune system, which is your body's defense against bacteria, viruses, and cancer.