I saw the documentary Free the Mind this evening. It’s a profile of Richard Davidson’s research into “contemplative neuroscience.” I heard Davidson speak last fall on many of the topics addressed by the film. In that talk, Davidson claimed that even relatively brief training in meditation can help to change the brain in positive ways. Although I am convinced of the benefits of meditation (whether or not I practice myself) I found that particular claim a bit farfetched.

The documentary profiles a study of vets with PTSD. Working intensively over a seven-day period, the researchers were able to quantify the benefits. Several of the participants in the study were at the showing tonight and answered questions from the audience. For example, one participant said that while participating in the study, he didn’t need sleep medication and all of them continued to see benefits in their lives from meditation.

In 2011 and 2012, Grace provided space for a related study that sought to use meditation to help stop smoking.

For more on the movie: http://danishdocumentary.com/site/freethemind/

The organization welcomehomevets.org is also involved in these efforts to deal with PTSD.

The film is showing at Sundance and is well worth seeing.