Answer this question to the best of your ability:
In what ways does meditation affect the cardiovascular system?
Meditation has several beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. It can help lower blood pressure by reducing peripheral resistance and improving arterial elasticity. This is particularly important for individuals with hypertension. Furthermore, meditation decreases heart rate, reducing the strain on the heart and promoting overall cardiovascular health. Research also shows that regular meditators have a lower risk of developing atherosclerosis and experience fewer heart-related complications. These benefits are primarily attributed to the relaxation response triggered during meditation, which counteracts the detrimental effects of stress on the cardiovascular system.