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The benefits of meditation are plentiful: a regular practice is proven to ease stress, alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, and foster more restful sleep, among other well-being boosts. Now, apparently, we may be able to add an improved gut-brain connection to that ever-lengthening list.
According to a recent study, meditation was found to bolster the gut microbiome—and quickly. The single-armed study published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies followed a group of 24 yogis partaking in a 9-day Arhatic yoga meditation retreat. Testing showed that, over the course of retreat, participants’ oral and gut microbiomes became richer in microbes, which in turn influences the gut-brain axis. It’s worth pointing out that for this study, participants also followed a vegetarian diet. Still, the same trend has been registered in “advanced” practitioners of Arhatic yoga, further cementing the connection.
This study echoes past findings that show evidence of the link between meditation and the regulation of our inner world.
Meditation and The Gut-Brain Connection
Like meditation itself, the gut-brain connection is thought to contribute to mental and physical health in copious ways, boosting immunity, helping your metabolism, even influencing mood. Though the limited research has focused on groups participating in deep meditation (aka two or more hours a day), even a few moments of mindfulness can improve your mood—and perhaps, in time, everything else. As if we needed another reason to sit with ourselves.
When You Want to Meditate (And Aren’t Certain Where to Start)
The link between meditation practice and the gut-brain connection is still being explored. But one of the most compelling reasons to meditate is how you’re able to handle life afterward. The following practices support that.
Even a One-Minute Meditation Can Deliver Profound Benefits, According to Research
How to Overcome the Most Common Obstacles to Sitting Still
Think You Can’t Meditate? These 7 Hacks Show You How Simple It Can Be.
The 7 Best Meditation Apps for Your Every Need
“Mind-Stilling” is Just Meditation for Romantasy Readers