Does Mindfulness Actually Reduce Stress?

An author and cardiologist with decades of experience, John M. Kennedy, MD, is the medical director at Kindred Health Systems in Los Angeles, California. John M. Kennedy, MD is also the founder of Encardia Wellness, an app-based service that helps businesses effectively manage workplace stress among their employees.

Mindfulness-based techniques like observational breathing and meditation aren’t just a passing fad in stress management. Research suggests that these practices have demonstrable positive effects on stress levels and other areas of a person’s life. Some of the benefits of mindfulness are a greater ability to empathize with others as well as an improved capacity for self-compassion.

Research trials have shown that mindfulness techniques are on par with other relaxation methods in terms of reducing stress. In addition to facilitating the growth of empathy and compassion, mindfulness techniques can also help people develop strong comping mechanisms. This will allow them to better handle stressful situations as they arise and/or manage chronic mental health conditions they may be experiencing.

How Stress Impacts the Heart

Renowned heart health specialist and founder of the BREATHE stress reduction technique, John M. Kennedy, MD, has administered care to cardiovascular patients in medical centers across California. An accomplished author and researcher, John M. Kennedy, MD, has spent the majority of his career exploring the links between heart disease and stress.

Stressful situations cause the body to enter the fight or flight response, which can take a toll on the heart. High stress levels have been associated with cardiovascular problems such as hypertension and heart attacks. 

Whether stress is caused by sudden change, chronically difficult circumstances, or an anxiety-related condition, the body responds by producing adrenaline. This triggers the fight or flight response, resulting in increased heart rates and blood pressure. If the stress response is maintained long periods of time, it puts a strain on the cardiovascular system.

During stressful periods, individuals can protect their heart by following a healthy diet, starting an appropriate exercise routine, and engaging in stress-relieving techniques. People with chronic or episodic stress may benefit from more comprehensive lifestyle changes and therapy.