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Letting it all go.
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The ancient practice of meditation has long been touted by spiritualists for its calming effects on the mind. But only in recent decades has meditation moved beyond its spiritual roots, finding its way into modern living rooms and office spaces as the overworked masses seek to reduce stress and improve focus.

Science has been helpful on this front: One recent Harvard study found that eight weeks of mindfulness meditation actually changes the brain, increasing memory and sense of self, and lowering anxiety levels. Another found meditation helps with focus and mitigates distraction, specifically in people who work at a computer all day.

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Jessica Hullinger

Jessica Hullinger is a writer and former deputy editor of The Week Digital. Originally from the American Midwest, she completed a degree in journalism at Indiana University Bloomington before relocating to New York City, where she pursued a career in media. After joining The Week as an intern in 2010, she served as the title’s audience development manager, senior editor and deputy editor, as well as a regular guest on “The Week Unwrapped” podcast. Her writing has featured in other publications including Popular Science, Fast Company, Fortune, and Self magazine, and she loves covering science and climate-related issues.