In the Western world, we are only just discovering the benefits of meditation. Therefore, it’s no surprise that in recent years, numerous neuroscientists have devoted themselves to evaluating the impact of this practice on our brains. Today we know that meditation not only helps us relax and concentrate but also strengthens the immune system and causes changes in brain function.
Is it possible for meditation to change DNA?
A study conducted at the University of Calgary revealed that meditation can also change our DNA. In fact, this research detected a change in the size of telomeres, a kind of small “protective cap” found at the end of chromosomes to prevent them from deteriorating.
Telomeres also have another function: they act as a cell’s timer, setting the number of cell divisions. Therefore, when they disappear, the cell deteriorates and dies. Interestingly, shorter telomeres are linked to a shorter life expectancy and diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Therefore, if we manage to keep these microscopic structures in good condition, we will notice it in terms of health.
Until a few years ago, it was thought that telomeres were destined to gradually and inexorably shorten over time. However, a 2008 study conducted at the University of California found that stress management, aerobic exercise, and a vegan diet had a positive impact on telomere length just three months after beginning to implement these lifestyle changes. At the time, researchers concluded that positive lifestyle changes increase telomerase activity and, consequently, telomeres lengthen naturally, protecting us from many of the diseases that arise as a result of physical decline.
Meditate to live longer and better
Now, a new study once again highlights the importance of caring for telomeres, this time through mindful meditation. In this experiment, researchers worked with 88 women who had survived breast cancer. They were divided into three groups:
1. The first group underwent an 8-week cancer recovery program consisting of mindfulness meditation and yoga.
2. The second group underwent 12 weeks of group therapy in which they shared difficult emotions and social support was encouraged.
3. The third was a control group, which only received a 6-hour stress management course.
The researchers analyzed the participants’ blood before and after the intervention to measure telomere length. Interestingly, the telomeres remained intact in those who practiced meditation and yoga, but in the control group, they continued their natural course, shortening. This indicates that meditation can halt the cellular degeneration programmed into our DNA.
As a final note, it’s worth clarifying that this isn’t the first study linking meditation to molecular changes in our biological makeup. In 2014, a study conducted at the University of Wisconsin-Madison analyzed 40 people, 19 of whom practiced meditation. Researchers discovered that their DNA had some differences at the genetic and molecular level. Basically, people who meditated showed a reduction in the activity of pro-inflammatory genes, which are linked to the development of multiple serious diseases, including cancer.
Of course, these are small studies, so some will argue that the sample isn’t representative. That’s possible. However, the benefits of meditation are so many that it’s worth including it in our daily routine, especially since it has no adverse effects. However, we must also remember that it’s not a panacea or a cure-all for all ills, but simply another tool to protect our physical and mental health. If you’re interested, here are seven mindfulness meditation exercises you can do throughout the day.
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