Meditation As Medicine: Activate the Power of Your Natural Healing Force

"I noticed a review that noted the lack of references to specific scientific studies in this text. Its definitely good to remind folks to be careful of any information someone is presenting, especially since so many of us are desperately seeking more effective approaches with regard to health. I would venture to say the "science" of today is a significant part of the reason the wealthiest nation on the face of the earth is ranked 36th in wellness in the world. With those numbers it certainly begs the question as to what science we would want to compare the info in the book. Much of the US today is still operating off 17th century science, rather than more recent advances in quantum physics, etc..

There is a reason meditation in its many forms has been around for so long - it works. Its also free, and readily available to anyone. 2500 years of study by millions of people has proven that.

Good reading."
~ Written on 2007-04-09

"Reading this book straight through, the book is interesting. But when one begins to practice the recommended meditations regularly, one begins to feel the benefits first hand. This is ancient yoga methods for a contemporary audience, with some info on scientific studies that support the theories of yoga. Keep in mind, this book is not merely meditation, but also includes stretches, prayers, and various yoga poses and breathing exercises. About half of the book is narrating "miracle" healing stories that the author has been a part of. This portion of the book is to build the faith of the readerm because to heal one must believe in the power of the body to heal itself. This book goes well with the author's other book, Food as Medicine. It is also realistic. Meditation can help healing, but only put out as much as the practitioner puts in. "
~ Written on 2007-02-17

"I first read this book about five years ago and found it a bit overwhelming - this time around I read it with a sense of anticipatory excitement. I didn't know whether to read it all the way through, first, and then try some of the techniques, or try them as I went.
There are some great reviews written about this book already. All I would like to add is this: I have made the effort to learn several of the techniques, and THEY WORK!
I personally do not have an illness, aside from rather intense mood swings that leave me with feelings of panic and anxiety. The exercises for the fourth chakra (heart) have brought a much greater calm to my life. I would warn people to avoid doing some of the exercises designed to increase energy at night. I made this mistake and was unable to get to sleep! It is best, like the author says, to do them as soon after you awaken as possible. I would also like to note that these exercises do require EFFORT! After some of them, I feel like I have done a hard physical work-out. If you have a yoga or meditation background already, you will be somewhat prepared. You will also have to take some time to really master these exercises. On the plus side, many of them take only 3-11 minutes to perform, so you have much gain for a little pain!!! What I chose to do was learn the ones that looked the easiest first. Experiencing the clear head, peaceful calm, yet alert energy has given me the encouragement to keep trying the other techniques. Some of the techniques I found made be positively euphoric. There is a reason why Yogis always have a smile on their faces! I would recommend this book to anyone who wishes to put effort into their own well-being, who likes the idea of "natural high" as opposed to drug-induced mood-altering. Peace, alertness, energy and no ugly side-effects.
I've no doubt that those who use these techniques for serious medical problems will experience at least some relief if not eventual cure. I've no doubt that if I continue to practice these techniques I might prevent some future illness in my own self."
~ Written on 2006-08-10

"If you are searching for inner peace, in the process of healing yourself, or healing others, Meditation as Medicine is an essential reference. Dr. Khalsa gives practical, step-by-step instructions on how to understand and heal your physical and ethereal bodies by combining techniques from yoga, meditation, and chanting. He presents numerous scientific studies plus his own experiences and those of his patients. He explains how the chakras, nadis, endocrine systems, and brain interconnect the body, mind and spirit.

Dr. Khalsa reveals many gems as he explains how our physical, mental, and spiritual bodies are miraculously intertwined. "Breath is the kiss of God," he writes, "With the proper breath, posture, movement, and mental focus, we can heal ourselves." He proposes that "The chanting of mantras endows us with a single-mindedness that is needed for a life of passion, commitment, and peace and heightens the proper replication of DNA."

Even if you only follow a few of his recommendations, you will be convinced that his approach is valid.

The techniques synchronize with each other to reinforce the magnificence of our creation. "The sixth chakra is the path of the soul," Khalsa reflects. If you are ready to explore the path of your soul, then try some of the exercises. Experiment with the mantras and notice how sound affects your energy. Take time to meditate and discover a renewed sense of vitality. Incorporate these techniques into your morning or evening routines and witness the miracle of the healing within."
~ Written on 2004-08-24

"This is an excellent book about Kundalini Yoga techniques and the chakra system. There are many great exercises. But there are no endnotes, footnotes or references to any scientific studies. The author has a medical degree but none of the techniques in here have been tested in scientific studies. That doesn't mean that they don't work medically. But the title of the book and the "M.D.," after the author's name implies that there is something scientific going on here. There is not."
~ Written on 2004-02-26