I have learned to lower my heart rate and blood pressure with ten minutes of meditation.

Not yet but im practicing. Im trying to learn to live in the now. I concentrate on five minutes at a time, keep myself centered and let er rip. It takes time and patients, but im getting there. 

Anyone can. 

Of course.

Like exercise most people don't bother.  Then they complain that their quality of life sucks.

We are very powerful and strong if we can find a way to unleash and use it.  I first realized this when I took Lamaze classes before my first baby was born.  You really can manage pain using mental power.