Various forms of meditation are used throughout life by many, for a variety of its desired effects. The consistent practice of meditation leaves a noticeably positive impact on the mind, including a reduction in anxiety and stress. However, it is also known to leave lasting physical effects on the brain.

According to a study in the National Library of Medicine, when participants engaged in an 8 week study (MBSR), consisting of 27 minutes of meditation per day, they were left with noticeable differences in the brain.  

“The results suggest that participation in MBSR is associated with changes in gray matter concentration in brain regions involved in learning and memory processes, emotion regulation, self-referential processing, and perspective taking.” The study found. But what does this mean?

According to SimplyPsychology.org “Grey matter serves to process information in the brain.” The MBSR study found an increase in grey matter within the parts of the brain responsible for memory, emotion, and stress. This suggests that meditation can actually cause a change in the makeup of the brain. 

There are many types of meditative practices, and most can be carried out almost anywhere. Mindfulness meditation focuses on slowing down thoughts, acknowledging what’s happening in your body and surroundings, and letting go of negativity. This form of meditation can be done wherever you’d like and can be as simple as paying attention to your breath in order to leave your body relaxed.

Meditation has been found to bring a variety of positives into the lives of participants, and doesn’t take a large amount of time or energy to do.