How does meditation improve brain function?
Written by
Tran Quang
Reviewed by
Prof. Graham Pierce, Ph.D.Through neuroplasticity, the brain undergoes natural physical changes in response to meditation. The natural rewiring leads to increased gray matter density in the brain networks responsible for learning while decreasing activity related to stress. You experience real positive changes in memory formation and emotional regulation. These structural changes occur regardless of whether you are young or old, or a novice or an expert.
Through regular exercise, the pathways in the hippocampus become strengthened, enabling the memory center to encode and recall information more effectively. As a result, names and facts appear more readily available in conversation. It is easy to employ simple techniques, such as concentration on breathing, to bring about this transformation rapidly.
Hippocampus
- Central hub for memory formation and storage
- Develops increased gray matter density
- Improves learning capacity and information recall
Prefrontal Cortex
- Executive control center for decision making
- Thickens with consistent meditation practice
- Enhances focus during complex tasks
Amygdala
- Brain's alarm system for stress response
- Reduces in size with regular practice
- Creates calmer reactions to challenges
Mindfulness causes substantial changes in your amygdala. The amygdala, as a center of fear, shrinks while decreasing its reactivity; exposure to daily stressors at work or home provokes only minor physical reactions. You can remain calm in situations that involve stressful work or family confrontations.
As neural pathways become more established, cognitive processing becomes more efficient. You solve problems faster with less mental fatigue. Connections that are not being used will be removed, while connections that are used become stronger. This natural process of pruning allows our thinking to become sharper over time.
Begin experiencing these advantages by having short daily sessions. When you are reshaping your brain, how long you do it daily is not as important as being consistent. I started noticing an improvement in mental clarity in about three weeks. Your mind is eventually going to become the most dependable thing you have.
Read the full article: 10 Proven Meditation Benefits for Your Brain
