How does mindfulness work?

How does mindfulness work? Mindfulness is a type of meditation where we focus on the present moment. So how on earth does that produce the many positive effects that mindfulness has?

Neuroplasticity

Neuroplasticity is the ability of pathways connecting different areas of the brain to change by growing and reorganising themselves. We can form new connections between areas of the brain, strengthen these connections, and reduce connections between other areas of the brain that aren’t as useful to us. This is why mindfulness is often referred to as “fitness training for the brain”.

Stress

The amygdala is the stress centre of the brain. Research shows that after regularly practicing mindfulness, the grey matter in this part of the brain can actually shrink, and this is visible on MRI scans. So over time, it is possible to actually reduce the areas in the brain that are responsible for stress.

Creativity

The pre-frontal cortex is responsible for planning, problem solving, and controlling emotions. Research shows that after regularly practicing mindfulness, the grey matter in this part of the brain can actually become thicker, showing increased activity in these areas of thought. This helps us to manage our emotions, as well as enhancing our planning and problem solving skills.

Memory

The hippocampus is involved with your memory and learning. Research shows that after regularly practicing mindfulness this area of the brain can also become thicker. Mindfulness really can help us to improve our memory!

Pain tolerance

Evidence shows that some elements of pain are linked to a memory of previous painful events. Mindfulness experts report experiencing less pain than those who don’t practice mindfulness. It seems mindfulness reduces the connections between the areas of the brain associated with pain, and those associated with memory. As a result, less pain was experienced.

Research

The brain is very complex and we are still learning exactly how it works. Fascinating new insights are coming out all the time. It is a very exciting time to be learning about neuroscience!

Project 365

I set up this website after deciding that I want to build a more creative life for myself, so I can give up my job and be in control of my own destiny.

I have set myself a goal of publishing an article on my website every day this year, to document my journey from employment to self-employment.

The name I chose was Project 365 because I see this as a year that I have dedicated to learning and self-development, as I countdown to freedom. It started on 1st January 2021, so I have 343 days to go!

Why not check in on a regular basis to see how I am progressing, and what I have discovered?