Two-minute meditation without a mantra is an accessible short pause.

The article presents two-minute, mantra-less meditation as a free, workplace-ready pause and reports experts linking meditation to lower cortisol (up to 30%) and increased prefrontal activity after mindfulness training.

WIRED outlines a short, mantra-less meditation approach meant for brief breaks such as lunch. The piece notes meditation is increasingly common in workplaces and everyday life and does not require retreats or special equipment. Experts describe meditation as recentering attention, often on the breath, to allow the nervous system to settle. The article also references apps and public figures who have helped popularize the practice. Key points: - The guide recommends two-minute, mantra-free meditation as a practice that can be done anywhere, including an empty boardroom or at home. - Mel Mah of the Calm app is quoted saying meditation calms the brain by recentering attention on the breath and gives the nervous system permission to settle and reset. - Michael James Wong of Just Breathe is cited reporting studies that show up to a 30 percent reduction in cortisol after consistent meditation practice. - The article reports that fMRI research has shown increased activity and density in the prefrontal cortex after eight weeks of mindfulness training. - Various meditation types are listed — focused attention, present-moment practices, mantra-based practices, movement-based sessions, body scanning, visualization, and loving-kindness — and apps such as Calm and Just Breathe are noted as optional guides. Summary: The article frames brief, mantra-less meditation as a simple, low-cost way to pause during the workday with reported links to stress reduction and changes in brain activity. Undetermined at this time.