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Can Mindfulness Change Your Brain Structure

May 19, 20231 min read

Yes, mindfulness can change the structure of the brain. Studies have shown that regular mindfulness practice can increase the amount of grey matter in certain regions of the brain, including the hippocampus, which is involved in memory and learning. Grey matter is the part of the brain that is responsible for processing information, including sensory perception, memory, and decision-making.


One study conducted by Sara W. Lazar and her colleagues at Harvard University found that individuals who practiced mindfulness meditation for just 8 weeks had an increase in grey matter density in the hippocampus, as well as in other brain regions, including the prefrontal cortex, which is involved in attention, decision-making, and emotional regulation.


Another study conducted by Catherine J. Kerr and her colleagues at Brown University found that long-term mindfulness practitioners had increased grey matter in several brain regions, including the prefrontal cortex, which is involved in attention and emotional regulation, and the insula, which is involved in bodily awareness and empathy.


In addition to changes in grey matter, mindfulness practice has also been found to lead to changes in white matter, which is the part of the brain that is responsible for communication between different regions. Studies have shown that mindfulness practice can increase the integrity of white matter pathways, which may improve the efficiency of communication between different regions of the brain.


Overall, the research suggests that regular mindfulness practice can lead to changes in the structure of the brain, including increases in grey matter and improvements in the integrity of white matter pathways. These changes may help to explain the beneficial effects of mindfulness on cognition, emotion regulation, and overall well-being.

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