In this day in age of extremely polarized politics and World turmoil combined with the financial meltdown we’re all currently experiencing, finding a way to deal with stress becomes all the more important. I recently came across a great article in the Vancouver Sun regarding mental exercise, specifically meditation, and the positive impact it can have on our brains with respect to dealing with stress.
The author of this article, Denise Ryan, stated the following:
Richard Davidson, one of the world’s top brain scientists, believes that mental exercise, specifically meditation, can literally change our minds.
“Our data shows mental practice can induce long-lasting changes in the brain,” said Davidson, professor of psychology and psychiatry at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
We can become more self-aware, better at handling distressing emotions, and more empathetic, a combination that creates greater social effectiveness.
Because our brains are plastic ( neuroplastic ) throughout our lives, we can literally change the wiring of our brains, regardless of age. To evoke such changes however, it requires mental exercise and regular practice.
Old dogs CAN learn new tricks.. and I think that’s a good thing! 
