Question

Describe the function of the mirror neuron system (MNS).

Key Terms

mirror neuron system (MNS)

Exercises

1. What is the role of the MNS in learning from and teaching others?

Describe the physical and psychological effects of meditation.

Key Terms: meditation

Exercises

1. List the physical effects of meditation.

2. List the psychological effects of meditation.

3. Why does correlation fail to prove causation?

Answer 1

Describe the function of the mirror neuron system (MNS).

  The function of the mirror system in humans is a subject of much speculation. Birds have been shown to have imitative resonance behaviors and neurological evidence suggests the presence of some form of mirroring system.The mirror neuron system (MNS) is a brain network activated when we move our body parts and when we observe the actions of other agent. Since the mirror neuron’s discovery in research on monkeys, several studies have examined its network and properties in both animals and humans. This review discusses MNS studies of animals and human MNS studies related to high-order social cognitions such as emotion and empathy, as well as relations between MNS dysfunction and mental disorders. Finally, these evidences are understood from an evolutionary perspective.

What is the role of the MNS in learning from and teaching others?

Mirror neuron system (MNS) - A network of cells that the brain uses to interpret and produce motor actions and emotion-related behavior. The role of MNS in learning from and teaching others is that it used to produce motor actions and emotion-related behavior in order to learn and teach others. A brain system that processes information about others' emotional facial expressions and movements. (A mirror reflects an image and shows expressions.Mirror neuron system (MNS) - A network of cells that the brain uses to interpret and produce motor actions and emotion-related behavior. The role of MNS in learning from and teaching others is that it used to produce motor actions and emotion-related behavior in order to learn and teach others. A brain system that processes information about others' emotional facial expressions and movements. (A mirror reflects an image and shows expressions.

Describe the physical and psychological effects of meditation.

The main physical benefits of meditation, I made the point that categorising benefits as ‘physical’ or ‘psychological’ is somewhat artificial. Reducing high blood pressure through meditation may seem a measurable and physiological benefit, but it only happens because of the psychological change that precedes it.
Every change in mental activity also shifts physiological activity.

Highly effective stress management. Regular meditation makes us calmer, less reactive and better emotionally insulated from the inevitable upsets and irritations we all experience.
Enhances mental clarity. A glass of swirling storm water scooped from the drain is agitated and murky. Rest the glass for half an hour, allowing the sediment to settle, and you have clarity. The same happens when you rest your mind. You see events, people and opportunities with a clarity that eluded you before.
Enhances emotional resilience. The same negative event can strike us on two separate occasions and we’ll respond to it differently, depending on our psychological state at the time. When we meditate, we become more emotionally even, robust, less likely to flare up in anger and more capable of responding to events with wisdom rather than emotion.
Improves our working memory and academic performance. With improved attention comes less mind-wandering, improved memory and better grades – even among people who have only been meditating for a few weeks, according to researchers.
Less recurring depression. A number of recent studies attest to the benefits of meditation in helping prevent recurring depression. This can be accounted for in both neuroscientific terms, when describing brain activity, as well as in cognitive behaviour terms, in training people to become observers of thoughts, rather than their victims.
Managing and preventing anxiety. As with depression, clinical studies confirm the anecdotal feedback that regular meditation helps break the cycle of anxiety-creating thoughts.
Reduces feelings of loneliness. Of special importance in our ageing societies. Loneliness, unhealthy bereavement and depression are not only on the rise, but associated with physical degeneration. Meditation has been shown to help people live more in the present moment, and less in the painfully-remembered past, with enhanced physical effects.
Promotes good sleep. Lower mental activation at bedtime, higher melatonin levels and better sleep are another consequence of regular meditation.
Increased self-compassion. Many of us are our worst critics. Research shows that meditation helps us stop identifying personally and strongly with negativity, and take a more open, positive view.
Helps break tough habits. Achieving weight loss, coming off drugs and alcohol addictions are psychological challenges we can cope with better with meditation.
Rewires the brain for happiness. As established by Dr Richard Davidson, over time the neuroplasticity of our brains actually change, enhancing our capacity to experience positive mood states.
Makes music sound better. Don’t forget this important benefit! Research shows that meditation helps us get into a flow experience – even with a piece of music we know very well and might otherwise be bored by.

1. Better Cardiovascular System
Meditation essentially consists of extended sitting and controlled breathing. These functions work to decrease blood pressure and cholesterol, leading to less physical tension, overall better health and greater energy for other activities!
2. Better Immune System
Findings have indicated that regular meditation practice can help people not only fight colds and illness, but can also help slow or control the pain of serious diseases and illnesses.
3. Lower Stress and Anxiety
Meditation is an excellent way of conquering the physical symptoms of stress and anxiety, such as shortness of breath, tingling limbs, muscle tension and more. Regular meditation practice also helps to improve our overall mental well being.
4. Better Athletic Performance
Any seasoned athlete will attest that 90% of the game is mental. Not only does meditation improve our powers of concentration, but it can also impact our flexibility and balance.
5. Better Sleep
A University of Utah study indicated that individuals who practiced mindfulness and meditation during the day were more likely to fall asleep quicker at night that those who had not.
6. Pain Management
Whether recovering from a minor injury or dealing with a chronic health issue, meditation allows the body to work against pain and discomfort, as well as helping to prepare the mind for recovery as well.cal Benefits of Meditation