Physiological effects
The most common physiological effects of meditation are reduced blood pressure,
lower pulse rate, decreased metabolic rate and changes in the concentration of serum
levels of various substances.
Physical Discomfort
Sensations (itching/aches/pains/etc.) can arise in the body when meditating for several
reasons. Sometimes the cause is just an uncomfortable posture. Make sure that your
posture is comfortable under normal circumstances. Other times the cause is that
sensations in the body are more noticeable in meditation. The body and mind are
calmer and you are able to notice more details in your bodily experience. It is often
interesting to simply observe these sensations in your body : to use them as the objects
of meditation. Sometimes these sensations just go away without your having to move or
change your posture. Remember that a quiet body contributes to a quiet mind.