But a new study exploring this function of mindfulness has revealed the underlying mechanism at work in the mind.
Researchers are excited by the potential for a safe, accessible, and non-opioid method of managing pain.
Afterward, they were asked to rate the level of pain they felt during the experiment.
Verywell / Laura Porter
Participants were then split into two randomized groups.
One group completed four mindfulness training sessions, while the second group simply listened to an audiobook.
Participants reported a 33% reduction in pain unpleasantness and 32% reduction in pain intensity.
The Brain and Pain
Pain interacts with the brain on many levels.
And when this happens, we can transition into our parasympathetic nervous system, or PNS.
“The PNS is what allows us to rest and relax,” Shelton says.
Mindfulness meditation is the ultimate exercise.
Like a muscle, the mind will get stronger and improve with practice and repetition.
“Mindfulness meditation is the ultimate exercise,” she says.
It’s important to note, however, that mindfulness is not a one-size-fits-all strategy.
This research confirms that mindfulness meditation can help alleviate pain even if you’re new to the practice.
Patel V, ed.PLoS Med.
2021;18(1)e1003481.
