Mindfulness meets science:
the new research

Scientists used to believe that the brain was virtually unchangeable once a person reached adulthood. Radical new research has instead revealed the brain's neuroplasticity, that is, its capacity to change and reshape itself throughout a person’s lifespan. This finding has opened the exciting possibility of literally re-thinking the way in which the brain responds to conditions such as chronic pain, depression, stress, and even happiness.

Meditation's positive effects are now measurable

The discovery of the brain’s neuroplasticity coupled with state-of-the-art brain imaging techniques have led to fascinating studies about the effects of mindfulness meditation on the brain. Through ongoing controlled studies, mindfulness meditation is being shown to:

• improve mental sharpness in the aging brain
• reduce stress by shifting prefrontal cortex activity from the right to the left hemisphere
• reduce the recurrence of depressive symptoms
• positively influence and reduce the experience of chronic pain
• improve concentration and help regulate daily habits of eating, sleeping and physical activity
• provide a valuable supportive therapy in the treatment of cancer and heart disease
• lessen the frequency and intensity of anxiety and panic attacks
• lead to the cultivation of greater happiness

 

To access these studies and others, go to our links and resources page.

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