News and Events at Invigorations

Stress Proof Your Brain

I read a short article written by Rick Hanson, PhD about “Neuroscience making great strides in linking stress, fear, and happiness to neural pathways, and proving those pathways can be changed for the better through meditation.” It is interesting to read about scientific evidence for the value of meditation.  Rick Hanson is a leader in the field of scientifically measuring the benefits of meditation on neural pathways.

The point?  The positive benefits of meditation are measureable.  Dr. Hanson states “To relieve stress on our brain, we can re-wire our brain by applying to our life things like mindfulness, feeling connected, feeling stronger and safer, and deepening virtues and aspirations.” Could be worth a try.

Tools we need for daily practice and improvement: "Keep focusing on compassion for yourself, the sense of kindness and contribution to others, the feeling of being cherished and included by other people, and, of course, soaking in the benefits of all these feelings, so that they gradually sift into the fabric of your brain, and therefore yourself."

Sounds easier than it is, but all you need to start is the willingness to pause for a deep, centering breath.  Or in other words, WHEN you feel stress taking hold, take a recess!  Try a brisk walk, or putting your feet up, or taking a deep breath.

By Sharyn Madison, Licensed Aesthetician and Skin Care Therapist