Change Your Story, Change Your Brain

THE SCIENCE OF MINDFULNESS

Mindfulness is a scientific approach to acceptance and inner piece, extensively studied by John Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D., at the University of Massachusetts. He defines mindfulness as “paying attention in a particular way; on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally.” In short, mindfulness translates to an enriched awareness of the present.

Dr. Kabat-Zinn’s research propelled mindfulness as a way to reduce the pain of patients who dealt with medical illnesses, and as a way to help people tackle everyday life challenges. His work has contributed significantly to a growing movement of mindfulness in areas of medicine, psychology, healthcare, neuroscience, education, corporations, prisons, governmental organizations, and professional sports.

As a psychotherapist, practicing mindfulness is a huge part of my own job description; as a human, practicing mindfulness is my right and my blessing. I’ve acknowledged mindfulness as the valuable practice that it is and I help others cultivate it within themselves. I’ve watched firsthand as it has contributed immensely to the lives of many.

However our ancestors termed it, mindfulness has always been a way of life; it’s one of the most ancient practices. It’s as simple (and simultaneously, as profound) as rediscovering the blessing of freely breathing, the sensation of a caress or a kiss, the vastness of the universe. Happiness can be a benefit of mindfulness. Science shows that happiness has a biological basis; research proves that we can take steps toward creating a positive and healthy mental space for ourselves, despite the stresses of thriving in a demanding and technology-driven world.

By actively exercising kindness and appreciation, we can prompt the brain’s natural production of oxytocin and dopamine—two chemicals that enable us to feel pleasure and well-being. In doing so, we simultaneously decrease the secretion of the chemicals adrenaline and cortisol; these chemicals can make us feel stressed and agitated. Though they also serve a purpose—adrenaline is what gives you the extra burst of energy to run away from a crocodile or a mugger, for instance—these can be lethal in long and continuous doses.

AN EDUCATION IN MINDFULNESS

Best of all, perhaps, is the fact that mindfulness can be learned and mastered. As neuroscientist Dr. Wayne Drevets attests, “In the brain, practice makes permanent.” Mindfulness is a lifestyle.

This is wonderful news! While you may need to work at it initially, mindfulness will come more easily and naturally to you over time—and you will discover that the benefits are worth the effort. Focusing on simple pleasures and the present moment is a process that helps us get out of our own heads and into the world around us. This, in turn, allows us to enjoy an increased awareness and connectivity to the blessings and positivity in our lives.

I’m excited you’re here with me. Within the pages of this book, I share with you a collection of essays and practices, providing specific examples of how mindfulness can be practiced and the ways in which it can influence positive outcomes in your everyday life. You needn’t read it in one sitting. You needn’t read it in order. This book is here as a friend, as a quiet yet uplifting conversation. Feel free to come back to whatever chapters apply to your situation at any time, to gain courage and insight from the information within. Unleash your inner power, your humanity. Seize control of your mind and your life. I want you to realize and remember that ultimately magic is in you.

Wishing you joy and mindful awareness,

Linda Miles

Dr. Linda Miles