Rewiring the Brain
Improving Mental Well-Being at the Intersection of Mindfulness, Meditation, and Yoga May 9, 2026 DOI: 10.4018/979-8-3373-4187-3.ch005 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Intervention | Mindfulness |
| Key points | Argues that mindfulness practices induce neuroplastic changes that enhance emotional regulation, attention, and cognitive flexibility. |
Abstract
This chapter explores the intersection of neuroplasticity and mindfulness, highlighting how contemplative practices can induce structural and functional changes in the brain. It outlines the science of neuroplasticity, describing mechanisms like synaptogenesis, dendritic branching, and functional reorganization. The chapter traces mindfulness from its roots in Hindu and Buddhist traditions to its integration into modern therapeutic models such as MBSR, ACT, and DBT. It categorizes formal, informal, and clinical mindfulness practices and examines evidence from neuroscience that demonstrates their role in enhancing emotional regulation, attention, and cognitive flexibility through neuroplastic adaptation