Mindfulness Meets Science: New Research
Drs. Miroslava Lhotsky & Judy Turner

Scientists used to believe that the brain was virtually unchangeable once a person reached adulthood. Radical new research has instead revealed the brain's neuroplasticity, that is, its capacity to change and reshape itself throughout a person’s lifespan. This finding has opened the exciting possibility of literally re-thinking the way in which the brain responds to conditions such as chronic pain, depression, stress, and even happiness.

Meditation's positive effects are now measurable: The discovery of the brain’s neuroplasticity coupled with state-of-the-art brain imaging techniques have led to fascinating studies about the effects of mindfulness meditation on the brain. Through ongoing controlled studies, mindfulness meditation is being shown to:

 improve mental sharpness in the aging brain

 reduce stress by shifting prefrontal cortex activity from the right to the left hemisphere

 reduce the recurrence of depressive symptoms

 positively influence and reduce the experience of chronic pain

 improve concentration and help regulate daily habits of eating, sleeping and physical activity

 provide a valuable supportive therapy in the treatment of cancer and heart disease

 lessen the frequency and intensity of anxiety and panic attacks

 lead to the cultivation of greater happiness

Mindfulness meditation is a scientifically-validated method that teaches you to clear your mind, quiet your emotions, and calm your body. It is a simple and systematic approach that helps you attain greater levels of health and well-being by becoming more present and aware in the moments you actually live.
Beginning with focusing your attention on the breath, as you practice, you learn to become more resilient to stressful situations and to develop healthier ways to be in charge of your life.

We are very excited to welcome Dr. Miroslava Lhotsky and Dr. Judy Turner, who will now be offering their Mindfulness Meditation program at Lifewise. For more information, check out their website: www.mindfulnessmeditationtoronto.com.