Researcher and neuroscientist at Harvard, Sara Lazar, have found that your brain structure changes noticeably after less than 8 weeks of meditation. They saw no changes in the control group.

Meditation has been found to increase the brain size – larger volumes of grey matter specifically – in the right orbito-frontal cortex, left temporal gyrus and significantly larger volumes in the right hippocampus.

These areas are especially important in tasks associated with attention, emotional regulation and mental flexibility.

Meditation has also been found to decrease the size of the amygdala. The amygdala is associated with fear and stress responses.

In a research paper by Eileen Luders, et al, it was said that :

“Both orbito-frontal and hippocampal regions have been implicated in emotional regulation and response control. Thus, larger volumes in these regions might account for meditators’ singular abilities and habits to cultivate positive emotions, retain emotional stability, and engage in mindful behavior.”

The hippocampus is essential in forming long-term memories, by consolidating short-term memories. If you’re not happy with your memory, there is a simple remedy. Sit down and let go of thoughts.

For more information, listen to Sara Lazar herself:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m8rRzTtP7Tc

 

Vegard Gjerde,
Global Harmony Crew

Team Spirit!

 

 

References:

http://www.nmr.mgh.harvard.edu/~britta/SUN_July11_Baime.pdf

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1053811909000044