Q2 2024 - Mindfulness in the News Roundup
In a world marked by constant distractions and pressures, mindfulness has emerged as a source of self-awareness and solace. Recent studies shed light on the profound effects of mindfulness. Here’s what we’re learning this quarter:
A single mindfulness meditation session can improve cognition
51% of people feel lonely—how mindfulness can help combat loneliness
Slower respiration rate leads to greater wellbeing
Mindfulness Boosts Brain Power:
You don't need to be a pro to feel the perks of mindfulness. While consistent practice reaps significant benefits, one study found a single session, regardless of how confident you are with meditation, can still provide an immediate benefit. A quick 10-minute mindfulness session can turbocharge your focus, memory, and cognition. So next time you need to tackle that to-do list, get focused before a meeting, or de-stress before bed, give this 10-min practice a try. Your brain will thank you!
Combat Loneliness with Mindfulness:
In an age characterized by digital connectivity, paradoxically, loneliness has become a pervasive issue. Nearly a quarter of the world feels at least a little lonely. 1 in 4. While these feelings may ebb and flow for many, they can still cause mental and physical health issues. This study demonstrates accepting our present-moment experiences (which we develop through mindfulness) improves our ability to connect and reduces feelings of loneliness.
A few mindful ways to banish feelings of isolation:
Learn to be comfortable on your own: Solo activities may include daily walks, visiting coffee shops, or cooking a meal from scratch.
Open up to people you know and trust: Yes this can be hard, so take it slow and be patient with yourself.
Lean into self care: Small efforts of self-care like brewing a favorite tea, journaling, exercising, or meditating can be a big help.
Breathe In, CHILL Out:
A recent study of the physiological effects of mindfulness has unveiled a compelling link between a slower respiratory rate and greater well-being. Respiratory rate is the number of breaths you take per minute. So the important question is —how do we lower that respiratory rate? If rates are heightened by stress, anxiety, and pain, the opposite should lower them. Mindfulness, meditation, states of calm and restoration can positively affect and lower respiratory rate. Take slow, deep breaths, and tell your body and mind to chill out and relax. It's like giving yourself a little vacation without ever leaving your chair.
