Mindfulness & Your Brain

Since ancient Hindu and Chinese times, meditation has been promoted as a medicine for health and success. But does meditation have any basis in Western science? The answer, based on multiple recent peer-reviewed studies, has been overwhelmingly “yes!” Meditation, or mindfulness, can have significant effects on frontal-brain activity that control emotion and concentration. These cognitive changes are not merely spiritual: scientists have demonstrated effects of neural connectivity in association with mindfulness exercises. By imaging the brain, neuro-researchers have looked at frontal brain activity that is associated with executive functions, or the ability to take a pro-active approach in controlling one’s actions. Such improvements garnered from meditation may improve working memory, multi-tasking, and concentration ability.

The research makes intuitive sense if one thinks of mindfulness as the ability to concentrate. If one “exercises” mindfulness via meditation, then cognitive ability can increase as if a muscle during a physical workout. Neuroscientists are beginning to unlock the complex mechanisms in which behavior can affect brain activity.

Scientists at Stanford University and UCSF made a profound step towards connecting a form mindfulness exercise with effects at the cellular level (“neurons” are cells of the brain). In the study, researchers examined the effects of deep breathing on higher-order brain function, specifically relating to arousal. The researchers targeted a specific region of the brain that is known to control regular breathing rhythms. They then keyed in on a specific group of neurons within the breathing regulator region that, when disabled, led to dramatic decreases in alertness and response. The study implicated this region of breathing control to a region of the brain that deals with alertness, attention, panic, and arousal. The studies raise the possibility that controlled, deep breathing could promote mental calming and other effects relating to higher cognitive function.

The Pathways team of professionals has helped thousands of people with brain injuries. We are Dedicated to effective and compassionate care for individuals with neurological challenges.

Can Meditation and Relaxation Boost Your Memory and Improve Attention?

Definitely! Research has shown that meditation can physically change brain structure to increase mental efficacy the quality associated with a higher intelligence. Anxiety and stress are frequent causes of memory and attention difficulties. Biofeedback is an effective way to combat these problems.

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