More and more studies are confirming that mindfulness practices increase gray matter. These studies measure neurological changes in the brain. It’s exciting to know that mindfulness benefits brain health!
How Mindfulness Benefits Brain Health
Participating in a mindfulness based practice for 8 weeks for stress reduction will increase gray-matter density in areas of your brain involved in learning and memory, and emotion regulation.
People in these studies report improved psychological well-being, as well as symptom reduction in a number of disorders including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, eating disorders, and chronic pain.
But what can I do with this information? Glad you asked.
Consider Yoga. Yoga helps calm your mind and relaxes your nervous system.
Tai Chi can not only be a mindfulness practice but studies also show it provides arthritis pain relief. Studies show that practicing Tai Chi two times a week improves fatigue, stiffness and increases a feeling of well-being.
Walking boosts your brain health and increases gray matter. How much walking? 6-9 miles a week.
So there you have it.
Three choices with plenty of evidence to back them up as good options for you if you want to retain your brain tissue and retain your memory well into your later years.
Once again an active and engaged lifestyle is the way to go. And the many benefits of mindfulness for brain health are worth pursuing!
If you feel stuck and need additional support to adopt a new healthy habit or routine, consider working with me. We can partner up in setting goals, drawing on your skills and strengths, and implementing strategies to help you find your way to lasting healthy success.
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For over 15 years, Shelli has been a freelance writer and wellness habit coach. She writes about brain fitness, creating a healthy lifestyle, traveling the world, and making positive habits stick. Stop procrastinating! Take action, join her free newsletter.
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