Extensive practice involving sustained attention can lead to changes in brain structure. Here, we report evidence of structural differences in the lower brainstem of participants engaged in the long-term practice of meditation. Using magnetic resonance imaging, we observed higher gray matter density in lower brain stem regions of experienced meditators compared with age-matched nonmeditators. Our findings show that long-term practitioners of meditation have structural differences in brainstem regions concerned with cardiorespiratory control. This could account for some of the cardiorespiratory parasympathetic effects and traits, as well as the cognitive, emotional, and immunoreactive impact reported in several studies of different meditation practices.

Neuroreport. 2008 Dec 19. Vestergaard-Poulsen P, van Beek M, Skewes J, Bjarkam CR, Stubberup M, Bertelsen J, Roepstorff A. Center for Functionally Integrative Neuroscience Institute of Anatomy cInstitute of Anthropology, Archaeology and Linguistics, Aarhus University

dVaekstcenteret, Nr. Snede, Denmark.

Posted: 02/17/2009



This article provided by The International Hypnosis Research Institute.

Enter your email address to subscribe to the IHRI Newsletter.

Bodybuilding Have you heard that 80% of success in body building has to do with your mental focus, but you have no idea where to start? Using the power of the inner mind, this hypnosis session will help you develop the body you want.

Golf Like the Pros Golf Like the Pros!Research has shown that hypnosis can be a very successful technique to enhance golf performance.Using the power of the mind,you tap into your full potential as a golf player at the deep, inner level are extremely effective.

Exercise with Enthusiasm Exercise gives you a natural high.These chemicals help reduce feelings of anxiety,stress,& mild to moderate depression.During this hypnosis session your mind will be tuned to associate the great feeling of chemicals through exercise.