In this third lecture in the series, Swami Veda discusses the three kinds of pain. He describes the mind of a meditator who has the capacity to be a meditation guide. Finally, Swamiji discusses two types of pleasure and the pleasure which is the antidote to pain.

Dr. Cahn reviewed scientific findings on the effects of meditation on the physiological and emotional responses of subjects. The major components of pain are sensory and emotional. Meditation has proven to be effective in decreasing the emotional response to pain, thereby decreasing the subjective experience of pain and increasing the pain threshold.

Dr. Nagendra explored the relationships of meditation, pain and sleep. Attention and attitude towards pain relates to the experience of pain at the cortical level of the brain. Cognitive tasks and mindfulness meditation can divert attention from pain. The effect of meditation on the quality of sleep was also discusses.

Dr. Telles reviewed relevant research on the effects of meditation beginning with the Upanishads through current studies. Research indicates yoga activities appear to create positive changes in the thalamus generating positive chemical reactions in the brain. Meditation changes the way stimulators are perceived.

Dr. Delorme discussed the role of emotions and emotional intelligence in the management of pain. The relationship between attention and emotions was explored.

Dr. Arora presented the science of mudras and its application to pain management. The balancing of the five elements is based on knowledge of meridians and polarities. Performing mudras helps in correcting the electromagnetic field and activating the marma points (hidden points). The workshop concluded with the demonstration and practice of several healing mudras.

The conference participants enjoyed an inspired evening of classical Indian dance in the Odissis style performed Jyoti Shrivastava and supported by rich accompaniments from her troupe of talented musicians.