Neuroplasticity

This is hardly a new idea: the link between mind and brain is bidirectional, our brain determines what we think and feel, and what we think may change the physical structure of our brain as well. But now it starts to become the frontier of neuroscientists.

..[A]ttention can alter the layout of the brain as powerfully as a sculptor's knife can alter a slab of stone. ..[T]he discovery that neuroplasticity cannot occur without attention has important implications. If a skill becomes so routine you can do it on autopilot, practicing it will no longer change the brain. And if you take up mental exercises to keep your brain young, they will not be as effective if you become able to do them without paying much attention.

...[m]onks with the most hours of meditation showed the most dramatic brain changes. That was a strong hint that mental training makes it easier for the brain to turn on circuits that underlie compassion and empathy. ..."This positive state is a skill that can be trained.."

Every Friday our Yoga teacher always ends our session with the following words: "Mentally give your thanks to everyone for being here, mentally give your thanks to the room, mentally extend your good will to everyone, everything, everywhere. Om shanti."

I will pay more attention when I say it in my heart today and onwards.