Meditation yields measurably constructive changes in just two months. A published study by a team of researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital in the US finds that those who participated in an eight-week mindfulness meditation program had significant changes in their brain structure when compared to a group of people who did not meditate. Before and after the study, magnetic resonance brain scans were recorded of the 16 study participants as well as the control group of non-meditators. The participants meditated an average of 27 minutes daily. Scans conducted after the eight weeks revealed more grey matter density in the brain’s hippocampus, the area vital for learning and memory, as well as an increase in grey matter in areas related to self-awareness, compassion, and introspection. There was also noted to be reduced density in the amygdala, which is associated with anxiety and stress – which was consistent with verbal reports from participants that they felt less stress. Notably, the brain scans from the non-meditating control group over the same time period revealed none of these changes. Lead study author Dr. Britta H?lzel of Massachusetts General Hospital and Germany’s Giessen University, stated, “It is fascinating to see … that, by practicing meditation, we can play an active role in changing the brain and can increase our well-being and quality of life. Other studies in different patient populations have shown that meditation can make significant improvements in a variety of symptoms, and we are now investigating the underlying mechanisms in the brain that facilitate this change.” Thank you Dr. H?lzel and fellow researchers for these insightful findings that demonstrate the uplifting effects of meditation on our overall wellbeing. May such contributions of science continue to enhance our understanding of the benefits of spiritual practice?