Increasing empathy through meditation

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nominalist
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25 Jul 2012, 8:18 pm

"This might already be obvious to enlightened souls, but researchers are discovering that meditation may permanently change the physical structure of the brain. Neural circuits linked to focus, happiness and empathy may be strengthened through long-term meditation, effectively rewiring the brain and 'lighting up' certain sections with a life-long capability for stronger activity in those regions, scans have indicated."

Mary Papenfuss, Newser staff, "Om My! Meditation Changes Brain Structure." Oct 27, 2010.

Our brains are very "neuroplastic" (changeable).


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autotelica
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25 Jul 2012, 8:31 pm

Besides the physical stuff, improving my empathy and compassion is why I've been doing yoga.

I have no idea if it's working.



nominalist
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25 Jul 2012, 8:54 pm

Of course, there are different types of yoga. The meditation I practice would be similar to nāḍa yoga (repeating mantras).


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Mark A. Foster, Ph.D. (retired tenured sociology professor)
36 domains/24 books: http://www.markfoster.net
Emancipated Autism: http://www.neurelitism.com
Institute for Dialectical metaRealism: http://dmr.institute