What happens to the brain during meditation?
Written by
Robert Kelly
Reviewed by
Prof. Benjamin Murphy, Ph.D.Meditation brings about important neurological changes that augment mental plasticity. Regular practice causes physiological changes within brain structures, and enhances emotional regulation and cognitive processes. These changes result from neuroplasticity, as neural pathways strengthen through repeated attentional practice.
The prefrontal cortex thickens, which enhances executive functions like decision making. This area of the brain shows increased activity during meditation sessions. The resultant strengthened connections also help to maintain focus on daily tasks and give an improved ability to gain control over impulsive reactions.
Amygdala activity diminishes, leading to less stress-related responses. The amygdala, which is the center of fear, becomes less reactive to emotional cues. The lower the activation, the calmer people can respond to a stressful situation. Those who meditate regularly show an evidence-based reduction in anxiety based on that neurological transition.
Prefrontal Cortex
- Thickens gray matter density
- Strengthens executive function networks
- Improves emotional regulation capacity
Amygdala
- Reduces stress response activation
- Decreases size with long-term practice
- Lowers anxiety hormone production
Hippocampus
- Increases gray matter volume
- Enhances memory consolidation
- Improves learning capacity
The default mode network exhibits diminished activity during meditation. This brain system is linked to mind-wandering and self-referential thought. We find that quieter activity in this network is associated with both less rumination and increased awareness.
Neurochemical balances shift in a beneficial direction during practice. Serotonin and GABA levels increase, promoting a sense of calm. Cortisol production decreases, reducing inflammation. These changes foster sustainable mental well-being that extends beyond meditation sessions.
Maximize neurological benefits through consistent practice. Maintain regular timing to reinforce neural pathways. Combine focused attention with open monitoring techniques. These approaches optimize brain changes for lasting cognitive improvements.
Read the full article: How to Meditate Daily: 10 Essential Steps
