Mindfulness reduces pain

Meditating can reduce pain and suffering by helping us separate our sense of self from what our body is experiencing, according to research.

Scientists from University College San Diego School of Medicine studied 40 people who had painful heat applied to their leg.

The participants had their brains scanned while the heat was applied, with half practising mindfulness at the same time. Afterwards, they rated their pain and discomfort and those in the mindfulness group reported 33% less pain and 32% less unpleasantness.

“We were really excited to confirm that you don’t have to be an expert meditator to experience these analgesic effects,” said lead researcher Dr Faden Zeidan.