"How Meditation May Change the Brain"

NYTimes' Well Blog reports on potential structural changes in the brains of those who practice meditation. 


"Researchers report that those who meditated for about 30 minutes a day for eight weeks had measurable changes in gray-matter density in parts of the brain associated with memory, sense of self, empathy and stress."


"M.R.I. brain scans taken before and after the participants’ meditation regimen found increased gray matter in the hippocampus, an area important for learning and memory. The images also showed a reduction of gray matter in the amygdala, a region connected to anxiety and stress. A control group that did not practice meditation showed no such changes."

A Mother Blisses Out

One of my favorite people from my two short years in New Orleans is a beautiful, engaged mother, married to another of my favorite nola people. I had just met her first son a few times before we scattered. Since then, her tribe has grown, and Facebook allows me to keep up on her adventures, challenges and fulfillment in motherhood. I adore her, and the 21st century way we get to stay connected, even if loosely. Recently she posted the brief anecdote below and it struck me. Enjoy. 

one of my favorite moments

by Nahoko Kawakyu on Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Lately, the boys and I have been playing cards or "Guess Who" after Sora goes to sleep in the evening (we have to wait for her to go to bed, otherwise she runs too much interference).  While we play, there are these moments when it is either Aodhan or Rai's turn and they are thinking, and it is quiet except for the fan from the wood burning stove warming the house.  We do not rush; two of us have to wait quietly for the other to think, decide, and make a move, and time seems to be suspended.  I don't know how long these moments last- these waiting moments- these basking moments- these moments in which we share a common experience, silently.  I treasure these moments with the boys, and am grateful that I can be present in their company- here/now.