Three quarters of healthcare costs in the United States are now dedicated to chronic stress-related diseases. Research shows that stress is the cause of a majority of physical illness and mental health problems. Students under these conditions are simply not ready to learn.

Educators are faced with growing demands of a culture that focuses on competition, achievement, and external rewards. The notion of what is developmentally appropriate can be easily lost. Earlier than ever, children are rushed to the point where they have little free time for unstructured play and wonder, discussion, or to be truly known by their teachers. This can impede a love of learning and the time to “connect the dots.” This all can result in an energy of fear — fear of not being fast enough or good enough, which encourages practices and curriculum that are more reactive than responsive. Reactivity does not allow for a thoughtful living or learning.

The brain contains over 100 billion neurons, which are nerve cells that transmit information. Neuroplasticity is the notion that the brain is actually very dynamic and is able to change and adapt its functioning based on conditions and the environment. We know now that the brain can create new neural structures and connections. The connections between neurons are called synapses and form the way they communicate.

Children and adults who have experienced trauma may have experienced a halt or distortion in neural connection and development. Mindfulness affects neuroplasticity; with practice, new, healthy neural grooves and established which may positively affect empathy, memory and emotional regulation.