Mindfulness and Brain Neural Networks
I found the discussion of empirical findings of MBCT very insightful. At 16:10, Segal says “both of these channels of information can lead to more effective responses and selections of activities in terms of dealing with sadness.” He is referring to the evaluation network and present moment network. fMRI scan shows that the former network is suppressed and the latter enhanced in the brain of someone who have been trained in mindfulness. I have experience this in my mindfulness practice. It is possible to observe strong emotions, physical sensations and, as well as other physical parts of me that is neutral, all at the same time1. The neural part serves as a safe space. It’s enlightening to have a scientific explanation of how it works.
See “Meditation for Working with Difficulties” by UCLA Mindful: https://www.uclahealth.org/uclamindful/guided-meditations ↩︎