We begin documenting our "benefits" citing a book that provides an extensive review of meditation research titled The Physical and Psychological Effects of Meditation; A Review of Contemporary Research with a Comprehensive Bibliography 1931-1996 by Michael Murphy and Steven Donovan. We will use this as our primary source for the information presented below.
Mental Benefits
Enhances perceptual abilities – Many meditation practices claim that sensory, perceptual and cognitive abilities are enhanced by meditation. Studies have shown the visual awareness and attention to visual imagery is increased through meditation. This may attributed to the ability of being more fully present in the moment with the practice of meditation. Pages 85-85
Greater ability to concentrate and focus attention Page 87
Memory and intelligence performance improves Page 88