Integrative body-mind training boosts neuron connectivity in the part of the brain which regulates emotions and behavior
Even a brief course of meditation strengthens connections between the regions of the brain that regulate our emotional responses, they found.
This could make it easier for us to keep calm, they said.
Chinese and U.S. researchers at the University of Oregon focused on effects of a meditation technique known as integrative body mind training, or IBMT.
Based on ancient Chinese medicine, IBMT combines posture, mental imagery and body relaxation and breathing techniques.
In the study, meditation novices took part in IBMT group sessions for half an hour on weekdays for a month. Another group received the same amount of tuition - 11 hours - in basic relaxation techniques.
Brain scans revealed the brain connections of those in the IBMT group - but not the other group - started to strengthen after six hours' practice. Differences were clear after 11 hours, the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reports.
These 'structural changes' were greatest in the fibers connecting the anterior cingulate, the part of the brain which helps regulate emotions and behavior.
This could have implications beyond helping people to de-stress. An underactive anterior cingulate has been linked to dementia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression and schizophrenia.
'We believe this new finding is of interest to the fields of education, health and neuroscience,' the experts said.
A previous study by the same team found just five 20-minute sessions of IBMT had a visible effect on health by cutting stress.
The rapid improvement could be partly explained by the technique's lack of emphasis on consciously emptying the mind.
'Thought control is achieved gradually, rather than by making the trainee attempt an internal struggle,' the scientists said.
Comment: For information about using meditation and breathing techniques to relieve stress learn more about the Éiriú Eolas Breathing and Meditation program here.
This is one reason I doubt the official line in China, by their non-sheep, that Falun Qong are enemies of the state. They are stronger than the sheep, but are not to be feared. The Boxers rejected western influence in China. Perhaps the official concern is that history might repeat?
Meditation has been present in China for a long time.