Description: For rheumatoid arthritis sufferers whose painful illness prompts depression, relief may come from the practice of an age-old technique already embraced by millions around the world: meditation.

Researchers found that a half-year exposure to meditation techniques helped patients shave as much as one-third of their psychological distress.

The research team, led by Elizabeth K. Pradhan of the University of Maryland School of Medicine's Center for Integrative Medicine, based its conclusions on an analysis of a specific training course called "Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction" (MBSR).

Pradhan and her colleagues said the MBSR concept of "mindfulness" is designed to guide patients to focus on the "here and now," while emphasizing the value of calmness, clarity, well-being, and a compassion for oneself and others.

The Arthritis Foundation has said that several so-called "mind-body practices" may help arthritis patients alleviate stress, pain,