Answer this question to the best of your ability:
Can regular meditation practice increase one's ability to empathize with others?
Yes, regular meditation practice can indeed enhance one's capacity for empathy. Studies have revealed that individuals who meditate often show increased activity in the part of their brain associated with empathy and emotional understanding - the insula and the anterior cingulate cortex. This heightened awareness of emotions, both in self and others, forms the basis for greater empathy. The mindfulness fostered through meditation also enables one to be more fully present in interactions, facilitating deeper connections and understanding.