Researchers from Harvard found out how meditation changes brain structure for eight weeks; Here's the research results.

A new research has shown that eight weeks of meditation can be accompanied by significant positive changes in the brain. According to researchers, following an eight - week programme of meditation seems to make measurable changes in memory - related brain regions, empathy, and stress.

The team he conducted was conducted by scholars linked to Harvard University and Massachusetts General Hospital, and the senior author of the study stated:

Although the practice of meditation is associated with the feeling of peace and physical relaxation, practitioners have long-term benefits that our team has documented for the first time using magnetic resonance images “

In previous studies, it has been noted that there is a difference in brain structure between those who meditate and those who do not. Several differences were noted, but it was impossible to determine whether this was due to the meditative practice.

For the current study, magnetic resonance images were taken from study participants two weeks ago and after participating in an eight-week stress reduction programme (MBSR) at the University of Massachusetts Center for Mindfulness. In addition to weekly meditation meetings, participants were given a tape recording to help them practice meditation on their own.

Participants of the meditation group reported spending an average of 27 minutes a day practicing meditation, and this is what researchers discovered:

After eight weeks there was an increase in gray (grey mites) content in the hippocampus! This subject is important for learning and memory, and for conscious structures, compassion.

Reduced stress related to reducing the density of gray matter in the amigdal, which is known to increase anxiety and stress.

It was interesting to see the plasticity of the brain and that, by practicing meditation, we can play an active role in brain change by increasing the well-being and quality of life. Other studies in various patients' populations have shown that meditation can make significant improvements in a variety of symptoms, and we are now investigating fundamental mechanisms in the brain that facilitate this change. “