Mindfulness and the Brain

The Mind-Body Connection. The mind and body are intimately connected. Our thoughts produce chemicals that can positively or negatively impact our overall health and well-being. By cultivating present-focused awareness, mindfulness meditation enhances connectivity in areas of the brain involved in stress regulation, empathy, and compassion.

Neuroplasticity. The brain has the ability to rewire itself based on our thoughts and experiences. This property is known as neuroplasticity. Mindfulness meditation takes advantage of neuroplasticity by strengthening neural connections that cultivate positive qualities like focus and compassion. With regular practice, these connections become the brain's default mode of operation.

The Wandering Mind. The untamed mind wanders frequently, reminiscing about the past or worrying about the future. Mindfulness meditation teaches us to gently guide our awareness back to the present moment. Over time, this can result in decreased mind wandering and increased focus and concentration.

Growth of Gray Matter. Studies show that 50 hours of mindfulness meditation can measurably thicken the cerebral cortex in areas involved in memory, sense of self, empathy, and stress. This results in neural integration throughout the brain, facilitating global changes. With long-term practice, the benefits extend from enhanced focus and emotional stability to far-reaching improvements in health, longevity, and quality of life.

Reduced Amygdala Activation. The amygdala is the part of the brain responsible for initiating our body's stress response. Mindfulness meditation has been shown to decrease amygdala activation, resulting in lower stress and anxiety levels. By bringing awareness to the breath and body, we learn to remain anchored in the present rather than engaging in stress-inducing mind wandering.