National Geographic 'Explorations'

(13 MB QuickTime Movie)

In 2004, National Geographic filmed a study done on the effects of Meditation and Tai Chi for a program called 'Explorations'. Ramel Rones, the test subject, was asked to meditate using various methods, while his brain was scanned and vital signs were recorded by researcher Dr. Sarah Lazar at Mass General Hospital, the world's foremost brain research facility.

The data extracted dramatically demonstrated Rami's ability to rapidly modulate his breathing rate and physiological arousal level as he entered a meditative state. This finding complements Lazar's broader study which found that advanced meditators like Rami are able to activate a broad network of cortical and subcortical areas associated with emotional and cognitive regulation, which has many health benefits.

This six-minute documentary of the study offers a brief synopsis of the day's events. The 13 MG QuickTime file will load by the time you can pronounce Magnetoencephalography.

Directed by David Silver