Watch Free The Mind

In the 2012 documentary Free the Mind, director Phie Ambo explores the effects of meditation and mindfulness on the human brain, particularly on children suffering from anxiety and PTSD. The film follows renowned neuroscientist Richard Davidson as he embarks on a groundbreaking study that seeks to prove how the brain can be transformed through the practice of meditation.

The movie begins with footage of soldiers returning home from war, many of whom are struggling to readjust to civilian life. One such soldier is Steve, a father of two who suffers from severe anxiety and has trouble sleeping. Looking for a solution to his problems, Steve agrees to take part in a study led by Dr. Davidson, who is conducting research on the effects of meditation on the brain.

Throughout the film, we are introduced to several children who are also struggling with anxiety and PTSD. These kids come from a variety of backgrounds and have different experiences, but all share the common goal of finding peace and calm in their lives. One such child is Will, a young boy who has trouble sleeping and often wakes up with nightmares.

Using a combination of interviews, brain scans, and footage of participants meditating, the film explores how the brain can be rewired through the practice of meditation. Dr. Davidson explains how our brains are constantly changing, and how meditation can help us to break free from cycles of negative thought patterns.

Through the use of powerful imagery and interviews with participants, the film shows how meditation can be a powerful tool for healing and transformation. Participants report feeling more calm and centered, and many describe experiencing a greater sense of connection with themselves and others.

The film also touches on the topic of epigenetics, showing how our environment and experiences can affect our genetic makeup. Dr. Davidson discusses how meditation can have a positive impact on our genes, leading to increased overall health and well-being.

Throughout the film, we are introduced to a variety of experts in the field of meditation and mindfulness, including Emma Seppala, the Director of Stanford University's Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education. Seppala discusses the scientific research behind meditation and shares examples of how it has been used to help children with ADHD and other behavioral disorders.

Another participant in the film is John Osborne, a former journalist who has been struggling with PTSD for years. Osborne shares his experiences with meditation and discusses how it has helped him to overcome his symptoms and live a more fulfilling life.

While the film is focused primarily on the scientific research behind meditation, it also delves into the personal stories of the participants, showing how meditation has had a profound impact on their lives. These personal stories add an emotional depth to the film, making it both informative and moving.

Overall, Free the Mind is a fascinating and informative documentary that explores the transformative power of meditation. Through the use of interviews, brain scans, and personal stories, the film shows how meditation can help to heal the brain and transform our lives. Whether you are new to meditation or a seasoned practitioner, this film is sure to inspire and enlighten.

Free The Mind is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 20 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3 and a MetaScore of 51.