Meditation: A Pathway to Renewed Brain Cells and Neurogenesis

Hello friends and Happy October! 🍂

In these first weeks of our european Fall, I took some time to attend a few mindfulness and meditation events with a scientific focus here in Geneva. To my delight, I found myself among a genuinely engaged and enthusiastic audience during these gatherings! 😊

It is becoming increasingly clear that meditation is gaining recognition in scientific circles.

For instance, I learned that mindfulness meditation has been integrated into the practices at our prominent local hospital, HUG, for approximately two decades. Additionally, I had the opportunity to view the captivating and inspirational documentary "Golden Seniors," which was followed by a thought-provoking discussion on the role of meditation for people in the later stages of life.

In a world where stress and distractions are prevalent, the search for methods to enhance brain health and cognitive function is more important than ever. Most of us have the desire to live long and happy lives, and to maintain our brains healthy for as long as possible. So, how can meditation help us in the process? 🧘

What is neurogenesis?

Before we delve into the relationship between meditation and neurogenesis, it's crucial to understand the significance of neurogenesis itself.

Neurogenesis is the process by which new neurons (nerve cells) are generated in the brain.

Traditionally, it was believed that the brain's capacity to grow new neurons was limited to early development, but recent research has shattered this myth. Neurogenesis continues to occur throughout our adult lives, primarily in two key brain regions: the hippocampus and the olfactory bulb. These new neurons play a vital role in learning, memory, mood regulation, and overall brain health.

When the rate of neurogenesis starts declining, people are more at risk of developing Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's and other neurodegenerative diseases. This is why it so important to keep neurogenesis rates high.

The Connection Between Meditation and Neurogenesis

The discovery of adult neurogenesis has led to increased interest in understanding its significance and potential implications for brain health and function. Researchers are exploring various factors and interventions that may influence the rate of neurogenesis, such as exercise, connecting to nature, and meditation.

Several studies have provided intriguing insights on the correlation between meditation and neurogenesis. In a study published in the journal "Psychiatry Research: Neuroimaging," participants who underwent an 8-week mindfulness meditation program showed increased gray matter density in the hippocampus, a region crucial for memory and emotional regulation.

Research has also shown that long-term meditation practice can lead to increased cortical thickness, particularly in brain regions associated with attention, interoception (perception of internal bodily states), and sensory processing, such as the prefrontal cortex and the right anterior insula.

Moreover, meditation can also improve lifestyle factors that inhibit neurogenesis such as stress, anxiety and sleep deprivation, and it also boosts blood flow and oxygenation in the brain, which is essential for overall brain health and neurogenesis.

Integrating Meditation In Our Daily Lives

Meditation's potential to promote neurogenesis is an exciting area of research that holds promise for enhancing brain health and cognitive function. While more studies are needed to fully understand the complex relationship between meditation and neurogenesis, the evidence so far suggests that incorporating meditation into our daily lives may have a profound impact on our brains' capacity to regenerate and adapt.

As we navigate the challenges of the modern world, the ancient practice of meditation may offer us a path to a brain-healthy future.

If you want to know more about meditation or perhaps even try a guided session with us, we invite you to contact us by e-mail at tati@meditactionworld.com. We are currently offering a 1 hour free guided session to groups who would like to get initiated in this practice (hurry up, the offer is running until the end of this year 2023 only!).

Wish you all a good week, filled with new neurons and happy brain activity! 🧠

Love,

💛

Tati