PuBLISHED: 05:17 EST, 3 August 2012 | UPDATED: 08:33 EST, 3 August 2012

Former American president Bill Clinton has taken his exercise regime to spiritual heights - by learning the art of Buddhist meditation to help him relax.

The politician, 65, has recently taken up a healthier life-style including becoming vegan after a string of heart problems over the years.

And in his latest bid to improve his well-being, the Democrat has hired his own personal Buddhist monk to help him learn how to meditate properly.

Radaronline quoted a source as saying: 'Ever since his heart scare, Bill has looked for ways to help him relax.

'He has a hectic life, he travels a lot on business as an ambassador for the U.S. and needs something to keep him sane.

'Meditation offers him that, he has a mantra that he likes to chant and after every session he feels transformed and full of positive energy.

'It’s definitely doing him the world of good – he feels fitter and stronger than ever.'

In February 2004, Clinton was rushed to Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in New York City after complaining of chest pains.

He needed to have two coronary stents implanted in his heart and a few months later in September underwent quadruple bypass surgery.

In 2010 he then had a clogged artery reopened - his second heart op in just five years - and announced he was giving up his diet of American fast food such as burgers, fries and deep-fried chicken to go vegan.

His strict diet consists of lots of fresh vegetables and fruit but he admits he still occasionally eats fish.