Build Yourself A Better Brain.
Hello,
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We are lucky enough to be enjoying a fine day here.
It is all full sunshine and blue skies, plus all the other whistles and bells that could possibly be desired.
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Of course, if the weather stays true to it’s recent form, we could be ‘enjoying’ black skies and rampant thunderstorms in half an hour.
Never mind, life is always full of surprises!
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Did you read yesterday’s post about the possible results of mid-life stress?
Well here is something else about that subject of stress seeming to help cause the onset of problems such as later-life Dementia….and possible ways to avoid developing it.
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Scientific research, carried out at the University of Oregon, has been examining the effects of practicing IBMT.
This is a technique of meditation which is called ‘integrative body-mind training, which has evolved from basic ancient Chinese medicine.
This method combines mental imagery and posture with breathing and body relaxation techniques..
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The research that was done consisted of forming two groups of volunteers who were new to meditation.
One group took part in group sessions of IBMT for half an hour, five days a week for a month.
The second group were taught basic relaxation techniques for the same amount of time.
Altogether, this amounted to about 11 hours of instruction for each group of students.
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When the results were analysed there were significant differences between the two groups.
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The brain scans from the group practicing the IBMT method began to show differences after six hours of practice.
The greatest of these were positive structural changes in the brain, boosting efficiency in the anterior cingulate, where brain connections began to strengthen.
This area being a part of the brain which helps to regulate behaviour and emotions.
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This checking of the fibres in the brain was made possible by the use of ‘diffusion tenor imaging’ which is a form of magnetic resonance.
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In earlier studies by the same research team it was discovered that only five IBMT sessions, of 20 minutes duration, were enough to significantly reduce stress and aid good health.
It also seems that such quick benefits are partly due to the technique being easier to adopt than formal meditation methods which require the student to work hard to clear the mind.
IBMT seems to be a method where this effect happens naturally, along with practicing the method.
This is fascinating because the ramifications reach far past just ‘being chilled’.
This latest test of the effects of IBMT would suggest the various applications to which IBNT could be applied for long term health benefits.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression, schizophrenia and dementia have all been linked to an underactive anterior cingulate.
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The group who were receiving their tuition in basic relaxation techniques only, did not show any strengthening of the connections between the regions of the brain which regulate emotional responses.
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Isn’t that fascinating.
Our good health definately seems to be in our own hands ….and minds!
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Build Yourself A Better Brain….
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