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Charged: Stories from the Women Leading Health Care

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  • How Meditation Changes the Structure of the Brain with Dr. Sara Lazar

How Meditation Changes the Structure of the Brain with Dr. Sara Lazar

Wednesday 18th March 2020

Dr. Sara Lazar discusses how mindfulness meditation alters brain structure and improves emotional health on Charged: Stories from the Women Leading Health Care.
37 minutes
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Educational
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About this podcast

Charged: Stories from the Women Leading Health Care
Author:
Mass General
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Holistic Health Innovations
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Innovative Healing Arts
Sexual Stigmas & Myths
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Mindfulness Meditation and Brain Health: Dr. Sara Lazar's Research Unveiled

Once you see your bad habits, you can't unsee them.
Ever wondered how mindfulness meditation can reshape your brain? Dr. Sara Lazar, a leading researcher from Massachusetts General Hospital, shares her fascinating journey from aspiring marathon runner to meditation expert. After an injury halted her marathon dreams, Dr. Lazar turned to yoga for recovery and was astonished by its calming effects. This curiosity led her to dive deep into the science behind meditation and its impact on the brain. In this episode, Dr.
Lazar reveals her groundbreaking research showing how meditation can thicken the brain's cortex, particularly in areas linked to emotional regulation and memory. Imagine the potential benefits for conditions like Alzheimer's, depression, and anxiety! Dr. Lazar also emphasizes the importance of consistent practice and the guidance of experienced meditation teachers. But it's not all smooth sailing—she points out that meditation might be challenging for those with serious trauma or schizophrenia, highlighting the need for caution and professional support.
Whether you're a seasoned meditator or just curious about its benefits, this episode offers valuable insights into how a simple practice can lead to profound changes in your mental health. Tune in to discover how you can integrate mindfulness into your busy life and harness its power for emotional well-being.