Improve Stress-Related Neuropsychiatric Disorders with Yoga and Mindfulness By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “Mindfulness training holds promise for treating mood disorders partly because it may lead to changes in patients’ brains, improving connectivity among some brain areas and changing tissue density in key regions, research suggests.” – Stacy Lu Over the […]
Improve Well-Being with Mandala Drawing By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “Mandala means “sacred circle” in Sanskrit, which is a traditional concept employed in meditation and a ritual symbol that represents the universe in Hinduism and Buddism. Today, Mandala has evolved into a powerful art therapy exercise that allows the creator to enjoy […]
Characteristics of the Oneness Experience in Experienced Meditators By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “Imagine there is no past or future, only now. Imagine there is no space or time, just an unbounded eternity. Imagine endless peace, harmony, and unconditional love. Imagine no fear and equality in all things. This is Oneness.” – […]
Improve Mental Health with Mindfulness By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “Mindfulness is recommended as a treatment for people with mental ill-health as well as those who want to improve their mental health and wellbeing.” – Mental Health Foundation Over the last several decades, research and anecdotal experiences have accumulated an impressive […]
Yoga Changes the Brain to Improve Body Awareness, Attention, and Present Moment Awareness By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “Similar to the effects of meditation, yoga is a neurological vacation – but it also awakens parts of the brain that are typically inactive during normal day-to-day activity. . . The mind becomes deeply […]
Improve Medically Unexplained Symptoms with Mindfulness By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “Mindful people might have lower blood pressure, lower blood sugar, and better heart health. One study found that people who got a flu vaccine after 8 weeks of mindfulness training developed more antibodies against the flu than those who only got the vaccine. It may relieve symptoms of irritable bowel […]
Altered Brain Metabolism is Associated with Long-Term Yoga Practice By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “the benefits of yoga are more encompassing than just the physical. And, thanks to modern technology and functional MRI scans, we’re now able to see how regular practice affects your brain.” – Emmy Lymn The practice of […]
Lower Depression is Associated with Buddhism in Thailand By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “The lay life of Thai Buddhism focuses on living ethically in the worldly life. While it is okay to enjoy the conveniences and joys of the material world, one should live ethically and not cause suffering to others. Lay […]
Yoga Practitioners have Better Physical and Psychological Health By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “Multiple studies have confirmed the many mental and physical benefits of yoga. Incorporating it into your routine can help enhance your health, increase strength and flexibility and reduce symptoms of stress, depression and anxiety.” – Rachel Link Yoga […]
Prayer Reduces Catholic Teacher Burnout By John M. de Castro, Ph.D. “One of the most important ways we can take care of ourselves, is by maintaining a consistent prayer life. We have to be willing to recognize God’s role in our life and in our teaching.“ – Rachel Gleeson Stress is epidemic […]