The more present we are in life, the higher the level of the enzyme telomerase in our bodies, which maintains and repairs the life preserving ends of our chromosomes, called telomere caps. With the day-to-day stresses of life and the natural progression of the aging process, these chromosome caps are slowly whittled down. Building up more telomerase can help us be healthier and live longer. For those who are taught to train their mind to be more mindful, their ability to be present was increased, their immune system functioned better, and their level of telomerase increased.
With presence too, our ability to be aware of our emotions and make them work for us instead of against us will be improved. Andour ability to focus attention so that we can learn what we want to leanr will be strengthened. Plus, other studies of mindfulness meditation show that we will be able to approach, rather than withdraw form, challenging situations and actually feel more meaning and fulfillment in life.
