Most of us have read that meditation enhances one's sense of tranquility and physical relaxation. But clinical researchers recently discovered that clearing the mind with this technique also provides some cognitive and psychological benefits that last throughout the day.
A recent study revealed that meditation actually changes a person's brain structure. MR images were taken of 16 study participants two weeks before and after they took part in an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Program at the University of Massachusetts Center for Mindfulness. The study included weekly meetings of mindfulness meditation -- which focuses on nonjudgmental awareness of sensations, feelings and state of mind. Participants also received audio recordings for guided meditation practice and noted how much time they practiced each day. A set of MR brain images was taken of a control group of non-meditators over a similar time interval.
Researches analyzed the MR images and found increased grey-matter density in the hippocampus, key for learning and memory, and in brain structures associated with self-awareness, compassion and introspection. Reductions in stress were also noted and correlated with decreased grey-matter density in the amygdala, an area of the brain associated with anxiety and stress.
Medical researchers concluded that practicing meditation can alter the brain and increase our well-being and quality of life.
For an added perspective, check out this video:
Alex A. Kecskes has written hundreds of published articles on health/fitness, "green" issues, TV/film entertainment, restaurant reviews and many other topics. As a former Andy/Belding/One Show ad agency copywriter, he also writes web content, ads, brochures, sales letters, mailers and scripts for national B2B and B2C clients. Please see more of his blogs at healthcarejobsite.com and view additional job postings on Nexxt.
Become a member to take advantage of more features, like commenting and voting.
Register or sign in today!