“The idea that the brain can change its own structure and function through thought and activity is, I believe, the most important alteration in our view of the brain since we first sketched out its basic anatomy and the workings of its basic component, the neuron. Like all revolutions this one will have profound effects…”
The brain that changes itself ~ Norman Doidge, MD.
Over the past number of months I have been working on a project called Mindful in May. It's an exciting campaign combining the benefits of mindfulness meditation with an opportunity to meaningfully contribute to a significant cause.
It's for both beginners and more experienced meditators and aims to create a community of people committed to cultivating well-being both in our own lives and in the lives of others living in poverty.
Mindful in May serves as a resource guide and inspiration to those who seek to explore the benefits of mindfulness. It includes daily newsletters including education, meditation downloads and cutting edge research supporting the benefits of meditation. It is tailored for those who feel time poor but still wish to take advantage of the opportunity to learn this valuable practice. Participants will follow the online program that will run through the month of May and include a ten minute daily practice.
Just like physical fitness, developing the mind’s capacity to stay present and mindful is a skill that requires regular training. The benefits of physical exercise are well established.
There is now compelling research supporting the fact that meditation when practiced regularly, can lead to structural changes in the brain[1] associated with reduced genetic ageing[2], improved physical well being[3], enhanced mental performance, and increased happiness.
Our world is in a state of exponential growth and change. As the world becomes more interconnected we are being overwhelmed with information. This impacts significantly on our powers of concentration and attention both of which are crucial for our work, health, and relationships. The increasing demands in our society are leading to heightened stress and growing levels of depression. According to WHO, by 2030, depression will pose the biggest health burden on society, both economically and sociologically.
It is becoming clear that to ensure happiness and prevent stress, we need to build on our internal resources.
During Mindful in May you will be raising funds towards bringing clean water to the one billion people who struggle daily living without it. Donations will be given to Charity Water, an innovative NGO that delivers 100% of its donations directly to building clean water wells.
Just as polluted water is the root cause of much suffering in the developing world, so too a polluted mind, clouded by misperception and distraction, is the root cause of much suffering in the developed world.
Mindful in May: Pause for a cause.CLEAR MIND for you,CLEAN WATER for others.
Stay tuned as the website will be ready for sign up very soon...
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[1] Lazar SW, Kerr CE, Wasserman RH, et al. Neuroreport. 2005;16(17):1893-1897.
[2] Pagnoni G. Cekic M. Neurobiology of Aging. 2007;28(10):1623-7.
[3] Epel E, Daubenmier J, Moskowitz JT, Folkman S, Blackburn E. Can meditation slow rate of cellular aging? Cognitive stress, mindfulness, and telomeres. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2009 Aug;1172:34-53.
