Study Find Meditation Thickens the Brain

Posted on November 30, 2005

A new study revealed in NeuroReport provides evidence that confirms what many have thought for some time -- that meditation alters the brain. MSNBC.com reports that the study found that meditation thickens important part of the brain and may delay age-related thinning in the frontal cortex.

Meditation alters brain patterns in ways that are likely permanent, scientists have known. But a new study shows key parts of the brain actually get thicker through the practice.
Brain imaging of regular working folks who meditate regularly revealed increased thickness in cortical regions related to sensory, auditory and visual perception, as well as internal perception - the automatic monitoring of heart rate or breathing, for example.
The study also indicates that regular meditation may slow age-related thinning of the frontal cortex.

The study only involved 20 people who had extensive training in Buddhist Insight meditation. However, the study is promising enough that later studies could test people who practice yoga and other forms of meditation and relaxation to see if they also thicken the brain. Many scientists and health experts believe meditation and yoga provide stress-relief and health benefits.

THE MIND