Meditation has been shown to be a highly effective treatment for individuals with pain control, increasing self esteem and confidence, brain development, and an increase in memory and concentration. But what about applying meditation for anxiety and other stress related ailments?

As researchers has theorized, a recent study has shown a direct correlation between the practice of meditation and its effects it can have on anxiety.

Author of the study, Fadel Zeidan, PhD, set out to map changes in different regions of the brain linked to anxiety using an MRI for the imaging. From there, he set out to show the physical properties of anxiety and how anxiety can be affected through the practice of mindfulness meditation.

The study began with 15 subjects that had no prior experience with meditation and no apparent current issues with anxiety. Their anxiety levels were tested before an introduction to meditation and after participating in a 4 day, 20 minute training session for the meditation.

Anxiety was measured using the the State Anxiety Inventory before and after brain scans, while the brain scans were conducted before and after each meditation session.

While the participants reported a 22% decrease in levels of anxiety reported from the inventory test, the brain imaging substantiated the findings with a physical difference before and after meditation.

When we are suffering from anxiety, a particular part of our brain, the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, shows a decrease in activity. This decrease can affect evaluation and response to situations. The MRI’s showed an increase in activity in these regions of the brain after meditation was performed.

Using meditation for anxiety has shown to be effective, helping us get a better hold on stress related ailments.

The researchers also theorized the use of mindful meditation has played a significant role in the outcome of the study.

The notable difference in mindful meditation allows the presence of thoughts while not paying any attention to any particular one and not letting them “clog up” the flow of thoughts. As a thought enters the mind, the practitioner allows it to come in, recognizes it and lets it go. With this process, the individual becomes more aware of the individual thoughts and how to control them.

By changing the thought process, you can change the reaction. And with that, the practitioner gains more control over how to feel.

I've been paying close attention to the effect meditation can have. I’m happy to add this to the list of the many physical benefits meditation has proven time and time again. These and many more positive attributes should help encourage a practice in meditation, perhaps leading to a happier life.