What Happens to the Body When Meditating? Science vs. Spirituality

Meditation is an ancient practice that has captured the interest of both scientists and spiritual seekers. Although each perspective approaches it from a different angle, both agree that its impact on the body and mind is profound. But what exactly happens to the body when we meditate? How do science and spirituality explain its effects?

In this article, we will explore the changes that occur in the body and brain during meditation, from scientific studies to the more holistic and energetic view of spirituality.

Changes in the Body During Meditation According to Science

Neuroscience has studied meditation for decades and has found measurable effects on the brain, the nervous system, and overall health. Here are some of the most relevant changes:

The Brain Transforms: Greater Connectivity and Plasticity

Studies have shown that meditation strengthens certain areas of the brain, especially:

• Prefrontal cortex: Related to decision-making, attention, and emotional regulation. Meditation thickens and strengthens it.

• Hippocampus: Involved in memory and learning, its activity increases with meditation.

• Amygdala: Responsible for stress responses and intense emotions. Meditation reduces its size, which is associated with lower anxiety and emotional reactivity.

This means that meditation makes us more resilient, improves our ability to concentrate, and helps us react more calmly to difficult situations.

Stress Reduction: Lower Cortisol, Greater Well-Being

One of the most studied effects is the reduction of cortisol, the stress hormone. During meditation, the parasympathetic nervous system is activated, which causes:

• Lower heart rate.

• Reduced blood pressure.

• Muscle relaxation and decreased physical tension.

This not only makes us feel calmer at the moment but also prevents cardiovascular diseases and strengthens the immune system in the long run.

Neurotransmitter Balance: More Happiness and Fulfillment

Meditation increases the production of chemicals that improve our mood, such as:

• Serotonin: Known as the "happiness hormone," it helps us feel good and reduces anxiety.

• Dopamine: Related to pleasure and motivation.

• GABA: A neurotransmitter that calms the nervous system and combats insomnia.

That’s why people who meditate regularly experience less anxiety, depression, and negative emotional states.

DNA Protection and Slower Aging

A surprising finding is that meditation can influence longevity. Telomeres, which protect our DNA and determine cellular aging, shorten due to stress and aging. Meditation has been shown to slow down their deterioration, which means it can literally make us age more slowly.

Changes in the Body According to Spirituality

From a spiritual perspective, meditation not only changes the brain and physical body but also affects our energy and connection with the universe.

Opening and Expanding Consciousness

According to spiritual traditions, meditation connects us with a higher frequency of consciousness. This allows us to:

• Perceive reality more clearly and deeply.

• Connect with our intuition and inner wisdom.

• Feel a greater sense of unity with everything around us.

For many traditions, such as Buddhism and Hinduism, meditation is the gateway to enlightenment and the understanding of the true nature of being.

Energy Cleansing and Harmonization

From the perspective of energy medicine, meditation helps balance our chakras (energy centers in the body). Some practices even suggest that:

• Vital energy (prana or chi) flows more easily.

• Energy blockages that manifest as illnesses or repressed emotions dissolve.

• We become more receptive to the energy of love and compassion.

Many people who meditate regularly report feeling more peace, less fear, and a greater connection to the present moment.

Raising Vibrational Frequency

According to the law of vibration, everything in the universe is energy in motion. Negative emotions such as fear or anger have a low vibration, while love, gratitude, and joy vibrate at higher frequencies.

Meditation helps us:

• Raise our vibrational frequency and align with positive emotions.

• Attract more harmonious experiences into our lives.

• Tune into the frequency of the universe, which can bring synchronicities and clarity in our life purpose.

  
  

Spiritual Awakening and Connection with the Divine

Many traditions consider meditation a way to connect with the sacred. Depending on the practice and belief, this can mean:

• Accessing states of enlightenment and unity with the Whole.

• Feeling a deep connection with God, the Universe, or Supreme Consciousness.

• Experiencing moments of spiritual ecstasy and profound understanding of life.

In some mystical traditions, meditation is even said to activate the pineal gland, considered by many cultures to be the "third eye," which allows us to see beyond the physical realm.

Conclusion: Science and Spirituality, Two Sides of the Same Coin

Science and spirituality explain meditation in different ways, but ultimately, both agree that it is a transformative tool. Whether we see it as a practice to improve physical and mental well-being or as a path to spiritual awakening, meditation invites us to reconnect with our essence and live more fully.

If you haven’t tried it yet, this might be the perfect moment to start. You don’t need hours or complicated techniques—just a few minutes a day can make a difference.