In essence, the key effect of practicing mindfulness is that it reduces activity in the brain’s ‘fight or flight’ center, the amygdala, which is so active in our hectic modern lifestyles. This results in our parasympathetic nervous system stepping up to reduce our heart rate and release hormones which bring us a sense of calm and equilibrium. When the amygdala is less active the pre-frontal cortex comes on line so that we can benefit from it’s many functions including better concentration, clearer thinking, personality expression and moderation of social behaviour. Naturally our minds and bodies are healthier for this and we can enjoy life more fully. Whilst nothing can provide us more proof than our own experience in my opinion, the following links can explain further if you are curious;
http://www.mindfulnet.org/page8.htm
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/use-your-mind-change-your-brain/201305/is-your-brain-meditation
https://palousemindfulness.com/index.html (a free on-line MBSR course with some fantastic resources, something for everyone here!)
