In the recent study published in the journal Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences, a brief mindfulness practice initiated the reduction of the smoking behavior up to 60 percent. Participants undergoing just relaxation activity did not register any reduction. Brain scans have shown that mindfulness practice increases the activity in prefrontal cortex and anterior cingulate, the areas involved in self-control
Don't Worry, Be Happy
In a recent research published in the Journal of American Cardiology, people with sunnier dispositions are not only protected against sudden cardiac events, but also have better sense of well-being. Cultivating cheerful disposition may not be easy but if the latest research on neuro-plasticity is to be believed, one can work on enhancing it.
Acceptance Predicts Satisfaction in Later Life
Just like the serenity prayer by Reinhold Niebuhr, a recent research published in the Journal of Happiness Studies has found that accepting things as they are, especially when nothing can be done about them, contribute to better sense of satisfaction and happiness.