Aug 7th, 2008
Center Yourself
I Lee types of D Yoga
Several studies have shown that very specific, concrete things happen in the brain when you meditate. During meditation brain waves resemble those seen when someone is asleep and dreaming. But, unlike when you are asleep, you are fully conscious when you meditate. You could look at meditation as a kind of waking sleep, a time when you have consciously and purposely allowed your brain to rest and relax deeply.
Meditation could be described as happiness training. Dr. Richard Davidson of the University of Wisconsin theorizes that meditation increases activity in the left prefrontal cortex, which is associated with feelings of contentment and joy. The more you practice meditation, the more your brain will gain the habit of using these regions of the brain. Also, scientists have noted that meditation calms activity in the amygdala, which is responsible for fear and stress responses.
Ilchi Lee Research confirms that meditation has surprisingly profound effects on the structure and function of the brain. In one study of Buddhist monks, who usually meditate for many hours a day, the cortical regions of the monks’ brains were found to be much thicker than average, suggesting a much greater capacity for deep concentration. Furthermore, the monks showed greater activity in the areas of the brain associated with happiness, something we all want for our lives.