Auto-immune diseases are characterized by an inappropriate inflammatory response against
tissues in the body and represent a major health care burden. Pro-inflammatory cytokines such
as TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β play a central role in the pathophysiology of many auto-immune
diseases. Innovative therapies aimed at limiting pro-inflammatory cytokine production in a
more physiological manner are warranted. In previous research conducted in an individual
known as "the iceman", the investigators found that, through a autodidact
concentration/meditation technique, he appears to mount a controlled stress response,
characterized by activation of the sympathetic nervous system and enhanced production of
cortisol, both of which are known to result in immunosuppression. In accordance, while
practicing this concentration/meditation technique, the inflammatory response during human
endotoxemia (lipopolysaccharide [LPS] administration) was remarkably low in this individual.
Therefore, this technique could provide a novel means of controlling the inflammatory
response. However, the aforementioned results were obtained in just one subject, and hence
can not serve as scientific evidence for the effectiveness of the concentration/meditation
technique. The iceman claims that he can teach this technique to other subjects within a
relatively short time frame. Therefore, in the present study the investigators wish to
investigate the effect of concentration/meditation on autonomic nervous system activity and
the inflammatory response during experimental human endotoxemia in a controlled manner, by
comparing a group of subjects that are trained by "the iceman" and practice the
concentration/meditation technique with a group of subjects which do not.