Estanislao Bachrach, biologist: 'When you change the way you breathe, pain calms and suffering disappears'

Dr. Estanislao Bachrach, a molecular biologist, advocates for a paradigm shift towards personal fulfillment through sensory intelligence and conscious breathing. He posits that the most effective pain relievers are internal, stating, "When you change the way you breathe, respiratory patterns, it calms the pain, but above all, suffering disappears."

Bachrach believes that self-knowledge is universally accessible, though often requiring guidance from coaches, therapists, or even friends. He notes that while discipline, time, and effort are necessary, these are qualities adults often claim to lack. He emphasizes that true well-being and decision-making stem not from possessions, but from one's identity and aspirations. "Although the word is a bit bastardized or battered, I think it's gaining strength. People are realizing that well-being or decision-making doesn't depend so much on what I have, but on who I am and who I want to be," he stated.

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Yo creo que cualquiera puede acceder. Muchos no podemos acceder solos; necesitamos de un coach, de un terapeuta, de un mejor amigo. A veces, uno se ilumina leyendo un libro o escuchando un podcast. Requiere de disciplina, de tiempo, de esfuerzo, de atención –lo que los adultos decimos no tener–, pero creo que cualquiera puede acceder.

The impact of practices like meditation on the brain is scientifically supported. Bachrach explains that consistent practice can modify the structure and function of specific brain areas, particularly enhancing attention. "You can't see the brain differently here, but in resonance, you do see it. It can be seen through technology, and you feel it," he explained, cautioning that sustaining these changes requires ongoing effort, much like physical exercise. If one stops meditating after several months, the brain's adaptations can reverse.

Modern science increasingly validates the benefits of meditation. Bachrach highlights that while technology was once lacking to prove its effects, there is now substantial evidence demonstrating its positive impact on physical and mental well-being. He encourages the use of these readily available, free tools, acknowledging they require patience, effort, discipline, and consistency. Bachrach also distinguishes between physical pain, a natural and finite response, and mental anguish, noting his personal experience managing chronic migraines by eliminating mental suffering through therapy.

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Yo sufro de migrañas crónicas y empecé a darme cuenta de que el sufrimiento mental se puede eliminar a través de la terapia.