Mindfulness and the Brain: What Does Research and Neuroscience Say?

Mindfulness and the Brain: What Does Research and Neuroscience Say?

Unravel the intricate relationship between mindfulness and the brain as we delve into the latest research and neuroscience findings. Discover how mindfulness practices can shape our neural pathways and influence our mental health, cognition, and overall well-being.

Larissa Duncan, Ph.D.

Currently the Elizabeth C. Davies Chair in Child & Family Well-Being at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dr. Duncan is looking toward the future and studying how Mindfulness-Based Childbirth and Parenting might affect a mothers’ mental health, stress physiology, and well-being.

A Take-Home Message

The brain is plastic, meaning it has plasticity, the ability to learn and grow and change over time.

Can Mindfulness Help ADHD?

According to a National Institute of Health study, meditation or medication, mindfulness might also be useful in the treatment of ADHD

Elissa Epel, Ph.D

Professor at the Department of Psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine

Benefits of Mindfulness

Optimization of mental health

What is mindfulness?

Being present in the moment means focusing your awareness on the here and now. It’s about embracing each moment of the day and not worrying about what tomorrow may bring.

A Look at the Field of Mindfulness Research

The goal of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is to help people change thoughts that are unproductive

David Creswell, Ph.D.

Associate professor of psychology, Carnegie Mellon University

How Mindfulness Affects and Changes The Brain

8 unique regions of the brain were consistently changed in those who were experienced in meditation.

What do all these unique regions of the brain really do?

The rostrolateral prefrontal cortex is linked with a greater awareness of the thinking process (meta-awareness), the processing of complex, abstract information and introspection.

The Neuroscience of Mindfulness: A Look Inside

Evidence shows that mindfulness can help increase our resilience, which allows us to cope better and roll with the punches.

7 Studies You Need to Know About Mindfulness

Mindfulness changes the brain

Mindfulness Versus Medication: What Can We Prove?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) was compared with anti-depressant medication.

The Research On Autism and Mindfulness

Research has shown that mindfulness is a beneficial practice that can lead to less parenting stress, less anxiety, lower levels of depression and improvements in sleep and life-satisfaction.

Judson Brewer MD, Ph.D.

Psychiatrist and Chief, Division of Mindfulness

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