“Happier thoughts lead to essentially a happier biochemistry. A happier, healthier body. Negative thoughts and stress have been shown to seriously degrade the body and the functioning of the brain because it's our thoughts and emotions that are continuously reassembling, reorganizing, re-creating our body.” – Dr. John Hagelin The mind-body connection is powerful. Our thoughts and beliefs can play a profound role in our biological functioning, and one way to tap into this complex relationship is to establish a meditation practice. We often hear about using meditation as a way to unplug from our modern world, but the truth is that meditation is a practice that’s been in existence for thousands of years. But what hasn’t always been around is the science to back up the powerful effects that meditation can have on the human body. This Masterclass episode is going to take you through seven mind-blowing ways that meditation can transform your health. You’ll learn about stress reduction, the impacts on cognitive function and the immune system, and how a mindfulness practice can actually alter your physical appearance. This episode is jam-packed with the science and studies that prove the power of meditation practice. You’re also going to learn some different ways to begin meditating, no matter your lifestyle or budget. So listen in, take notes, and apply what resonates with you! In this episode you’ll discover: The impact that meditation can have on the immune system.  What psychoneuroimmunology is.  How meditation can reduce the severity of colds and flu.  The link between meditation and sleep quality.  How your brain waves work during sleep, and how meditation can impact them.  Why meditating in the morning can help you sleep better at night. The science behind how implementing a meditation practice can increase your lifespan. What telomeres are, and how mindfulness can protect them.  How meditating can increase cognitive function and overall brain health.   The link between meditation and physical appearance.  How mindfulness can help you consciously filter your thoughts.  The impact of meditation on the cardiovascular system.  What breathwork is.  Different options for beginning a meditation practice.  Items mentioned in this episode include: Foursigmatic.com/model ⇐ Get 15% off your daily health elixirs and coffee! Onnit.com/model ⇐ Get your optimal health & performance supplements at 10% off! The Top Ten Ways to Fortify Your Immune System – Episode 321 Smart Tips to Beat Inflamm-Aging with Dr. Elissa Epel – Episode 205 The Surprising Science of Stress with Dr. Rangan Chatterjee – Episode 376 How to Beat Anxiety with Craig Ballantyne – Episode 322 5 Biggest Myths About Meditation with Light Watkins – Episode 267 The Telomere Effect by Elizabeth Blackburn, Ph.D. & Elissa Epel, Ph.D. The Stress Solution by Dr. Rangan Chatterjee  Bliss More by Light Watkins * Download Transcript Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes:  Apple Podcasts Stitcher Spotify Soundcloud Join TMHS Facebook community - Model Nation