Meditation is a mental discipline involving focused attention or deep relaxation. Many people are curious about its role in physical health, particularly weight management, and whether this seemingly passive activity expends energy. While the primary benefits are mental and emotional, the body always engages in energy expenditure, even during stillness. The direct answer is nuanced: the energy output is measurable but minimal compared to physical movement.
Calorie Burn: The Scientific Reality
The body constantly burns calories to maintain essential functions, a process known as the Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR). Meditation does not stop this process, but it does not significantly increase it. Energy expenditure during meditation is similar to passive activities, such as quiet sitting or light reading, which has a Metabolic Equivalent of Task (MET) value of approximately 1.0. For an average person, this equates to burning around 70 to 90 calories per hour, or roughly 1.2 to 1.5 calories per minute. This minimal expenditure highlights that while meditation consumes energy, it should not be viewed as a substitute for physical exercise in a weight loss strategy.
Metabolic Slowdown During Practice
Deep meditation can lead to a temporary decrease in the body’s energy demands, distinguishing it from simple passive rest. Scientific studies show that certain types of meditation can induce a hypometabolic state. This state is characterized by a measurable physiological deceleration, where markers like heart rate and respiratory rate often decrease. Researchers measuring oxygen consumption, a direct indicator of metabolic rate, have observed reductions. Some deep meditative states show a decrease comparable to or even greater than that seen during sleep. This reduction suggests the body requires fewer calories to function efficiently during the deepest phases of meditation, meaning the calorie burn can be less than when a person is simply sitting and actively thinking.
The Actual Physiological Value of Meditation
The true biological value of meditation for overall health and weight regulation lies in its profound impact on the nervous and endocrine systems, not in direct calorie expenditure. The practice is highly effective at activating the parasympathetic nervous system, the body’s “rest and digest” mode. This activation shifts the body out of the “fight or flight” response governed by the sympathetic nervous system. Regular meditation helps regulate the release of stress hormones, particularly cortisol. Chronic, elevated cortisol levels are linked to increased abdominal fat storage, poor blood sugar regulation, and stress-induced overeating. By consistently lowering cortisol production, meditation offers an indirect but powerful benefit for metabolic health and weight management. This hormonal balance can improve sleep quality and reduce cravings, supporting healthier long-term choices.