A report of 100 brains missing at the University of Texas in December 2014 has drawn a lot of attention and humor. From a healing perspective, losing one’s brain may not be such a bad idea. We put a lot of stock in our brain’s ability to be wondrously creative and powerful. Our last article discussed the issue of stuck repetitive thoughts, of which 80% are negative. Repetitive negative thoughts may have an impact on us and our environment affecting health, learning, resilience, and happiness.

Research has shown that finding a way to deactivate the brain, to move into a quiet space or quiet mind, can actually change our thoughts in a very meaningful way. Dr. Tiller demonstrated how a recorded meditation changes the pH of water. Studies on mindfulness meditation also demonstrate how the body can spontaneously substitute positive thoughts for negative ones.

Meditation can be described as a state of purposeful attention in the present moment. When you’re mindful, you observe your thoughts and feelings without judging them as good or bad.

The practice of “letting go of thought” encourages the environment for brain change or neuroplasticity. Therefore we empower the brain to improve on its clarity and memory. During meditation, functional MRIs have shown activation of the left frontal cortex and activity reduction of the right frontal vortex. Both lobes function in higher-level cognitive and emotional tasks. This suggests that thinking affects our feelings and vice versa.^(1,2)

Let’s pause and reflect on that statement. By practicing meditation or being in a mindful state or a no-thought state, the body can reorganize or experience a form of “rebooting.” We can begin to mitigate the mind’s persistent evaluation and judgment that causes us mental suffering and harms our well-being.

Try using these simple, practical mindfulness exercises to empty your mind.⁽³⁾

1. One-Minute Breathing

This exercise can be done anywhere at any time, standing up or sitting down. All you have to do is focus on your breath for just one minute. Start by breathing in and out slowly, holding your breath for a count of six once you’ve inhaled. Then breathe out slowly, letting the breath flow effortlessly out back into the atmosphere. Naturally your mind will try and wander. Thoughts will fill your mind, but simply notice these thoughts, let them be what they are and return to watching your breath. Follow your breath only. If you enjoyed one minute of this mind-calming exercise, why not try two?

2. Practice Gratitude

It is important to take notice of the positive moments: the colors of the sunset, the friends and family who support you when you are going through a challenge.

3. Turn Down The Noise

Turn off your gadgets for a couple of hours–your TV, your smartphone, and your tablet. Once the tug to procrastinate and get numb with these things dissipates, you’ll find that you will notice your repetitive thoughts. Then productivity and creativity will seep into your life.

1. http://www.thealternativedaily.com/study-meditation-actually-increases-frontal-cortex-and-boosts-frontal-lobe-activity/

2. http://m.psychologytoday.com/blog/in-the-face-adversity/201302/the-role-the-brain-in-happiness

3. http://www.pocketmindfulness.com
/6-mindfulness-exercises-you-can-try-today/

Phyllis Krug is a physical therapist with a private practice in Teaneck, NJ and Monsey, NY. Her practice integrates many mind/body and energy therapies. She is available for private consultation, lectures, and classes and can be reached at 973-704-9062 Phyllis Gordon is an occupational therapist practicing in Tenafly, NJ using traditional OT as well as holistic energetic techniques for infants through seniors. She may be contacted at 201-569-6288 or www.phyllisgordon.com for sessions.

By Phyllis Krug and Phyllis Gordon