Research & Science

Stay at the forefront of mindfulness science with Mindful.org’s Mindfulness Research category. Here, we dive into the latest studies and findings that reveal the science behind mindfulness. Understand how mindfulness practices can impact the brain, enhance cognitive functions, and improve overall health and well-being. Our in-depth articles and analyses translate complex research into actionable insights, keeping you informed and knowledgeable about the empirical evidence supporting mindfulness.  
What does it all mean? Exploring the science of the meaning of life - Photo of a dandelion blowing in the wind
Learn
What Does It All Mean? 

Humans are inherently motivated to seek out fulfillment in their lives—to thrive, rather than simply survive. New research shows that meaning may be simple to find because it’s all around us. Read More 

  • Misty Pratt
  • October 7, 2022
The Science of Wanting: Meditation and Dopamine
Focus & Attention
The Science of Wanting: How We Unhook from Dopamine 

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps motivate us to fulfill our basic needs, but in our modern age of plenty, it can also lead to overindulgence and addiction. So how can we find balance and contentment in an age of instant gratification? Read More 

  • Katherine Ellison
  • September 22, 2022
The Science of Mindfulness
Learn
The Science of Mindfulness 

The ultimate guide to the research on the effects of mindfulness and meditation for our health, psyche, and overall quality of life. Read More 

  • Mindful Staff
  • August 31, 2022
Why Our Brains are Designed to Forget—Illustration of a white face with the back of it going through a shredder with a dark blue background with three yellow stars.
Creativity
Why Our Brains Are Designed to Forget 

While many of us yearn to sharpen our memory, the science of sleep shows that, in fact, our brains are designed to forget—a process that unlocks the mind’s capacity to dream and think in creative ways. Read More 

  • Scott A. Small
  • July 28, 2022
Illustration of a woman sitting cross-legged on a yoga matt in her living room with a cat by her feet. She's imagining a tropical beach.
Getting Started
It Matters Why You Meditate 

Research suggests that the way you view your emotional and psychological life may influence your reasons for meditating, and how much benefit you get from the practice. Read More 

  • Mara Gulens
  • July 14, 2022
Ad for a mindfulness app with meditations, articles, and a section sidebar, shown on a phone held in hand.