Unlocking the Science Behind Meditation and Mindfulness

Have you ever wondered about the science-backed reasons that make meditation and mindfulness so beneficial? In this article, I’m going to share the purpose and impacts of mediation and mindfulness from a scientific perspective.

What is Meditation & Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is a non-judgemental awareness of and focus on the present moment. Meditation is the practice of focused/mindful attention on an “object of meditation.” The practice of meditation teaches you to become more mindful; and the practice of mindfulness improves your ability to meditate. It’s a practice of training your mind to become still; and it takes time!

“My mind won’t stop racing when I try to meditate.” —said every meditator at some point

Science-backed Benefits of Meditation & Mindfulness

In order to understand how meditation and mindfulness are helpful, you must first understand how the mind and body work together.

Let’s start with the brain. When your amygdala detects danger, it sends a distress signal to the brain’s hypothalamus. Functioning like a command center, the hypothalamus communicates with the rest of the body through the autonomic nervous system’s fight/flight/freeze mode (sympathetic nervous system function). When stress or anxiety triggers this response, stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, flood the bloodstream. While this mechanism is useful when running from a tiger, it becomes problematic in our modern world, where our life/work demands and overstimulating tech are constant. Many individuals find themselves trapped in a perpetual state of “Fight/Flight/Freeze.”

Overactivation of the sympathetic nervous system leads to chronic inflammation, compromising immunity and contributing to both physical and mental health conditions. Thankfully, there’s a counterbalance - the parasympathetic nervous system function, AKA “Rest & Digest.” This response releases relaxation hormones, like serotonin and dopamine, counteracting the effects of stress hormones. The benefits are numerous, including the following:

• Decreased stress and anxiety

• Improved mood & focus

• Improved sleep

• Enhanced immune system functioning

• Lowered blood pressure

Meditation and mindfulness practices are simple and easy ways to turn on the parasympathetic nervous system!

Moreover, these practices also enhance your emotional regulation over time. With dedication, you'll find it easier to shift from negative thoughts and emotions to positive ones. Regular activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, coupled with improved emotional control, builds stress resilience.

Ready to start a meditation practice? Stay tuned for my next blog post “Meditation Made Easy: 7 Simple Steps to Learn How to Meditate!”