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Long-Term Meditators Self-Induce High-Amplitude Gamma Synchrony During Mental Practice
Abstract
Practitioners understand "meditation," or mental training, to be a process of familiarization with one's own mental life leading to long-lasting changes in cognition and emotion. Little is known about this process and its impact on the brain. Here we find that long-term Buddhist practitioners self-induce sustained electroencephalographic high-amplitude gamma-band oscillations and phase-synchrony during meditation. These electroencephalogram patterns differ from those of controls, in particular over lateral frontoparietal electrodes. In addition, the ratio of gamma-band activity (25-42 Hz) to slow oscillatory activity (4-13 Hz) is initially higher in the resting baseline before meditation for the practitioners than the controls over medial frontoparietal electrodes. This difference increases sharply during meditation over most of the scalp electrodes and remains higher than the initial baseline in the postmeditation baseline. These data suggest that mental training involves temporal integrative mechanisms and may induce short-term and long-term neural changes.
... The devotional practice associated with "Mon Chalo Nijo Niketane" may facilitate specific patterns of neural synchronization that enhance integration across distributed networks. Preliminary research on related contemplative practices suggests that long-term meditation training can systematically alter oscillatory dynamics, particularly by enhancing gamma synchronization (Lutz et al., 2004;Schoenberg et al., 2018). These findings provide empirical support for the proposed relationship between contemplative practice and neural integration central to the RSIM framework. ...
... Recent studies exemplifying this approach include Lutz et al. (2004), who used phenomenological reports to identify distinct EEG signatures associated with different meditative states, and Dahl et al. (2023), who integrated phenomenological reports with fMRI measurements to investigate neural correlates of self-transcendent experiences. These studies demonstrate the feasibility and productivity of the neurophenomenological approach advocated by the RSIM framework. ...
... Lutz et al. (2004) demonstrated increased gamma synchrony during compassion meditation in long-term practitioners, suggesting enhanced neural integration. This finding aligns with the RSIM's emphasis on integration across distributed neural processes as a fundamental feature of consciousness. ...
This paper presents a novel theoretical framework for understanding consciousness through an interdisciplinary analysis of the Bengali devotional song "Mon Chalo Nijo Niketane" ("O Mind, Return to Your True Abode"), historically associated with Swami Vivekananda. By integrating third-generation cognitive science, quantum neurodynamics, contemplative phenomenology, and enactive approaches to cognition, we demonstrate how this devotional expression anticipates contemporary advancements in consciousness studies. We propose the Recursive Self-Integration Model (RSIM), which conceptualizes consciousness as a dynamic, self-organizing system characterized by nested hierarchies of recursive processing that transcend traditional subject-object dichotomies. This model resolves several persistent theoretical challenges in consciousness studies, including the binding problem, the explanatory gap, and the hard problem of qualia. Through rigorous phenomenological analysis and theoretical synthesis, we demonstrate that the inward journey articulated in this devotional tradition offers a sophisticated ontogenetic framework with profound implications for understanding the structural invariants of conscious experience. Our comprehensive analysis includes empirical correlates from neuroimaging studies, computational modeling approaches, and first-person phenomenological investigations that collectively support the RSIM framework. This research contributes to an emerging paradigm that transcends conventional materialist and dualist approaches to consciousness through a non-reductive, dynamical systems perspective with significant implications for clinical psychology, education, artificial intelligence, and environmental ethics.
... Functional and structural MRI studies have demonstrated changes in both the amygdala and the hippocampus from continued LKM practice ( 13 , 14 ). EEG studies, in addition, have shown increased γ activity during meditation ( 11 , 14 ), including during LKM in experienced meditators ( 3 ). BOLD-fMRI signals have been shown to correlate with γ activity ( 15 ), suggesting that these processes are related. ...
... Amygdala and Hippocampus γ Power Increases During LKM. By leveraging the spatiotemporal resolution afforded by iEEG, our results build on prior research on γ power increases associated with long-term LKM practice (3,11,39,40) extending these findings to first-time meditators and providing insights into the nature of neural changes associated with meditation in an anatomically precise way. We observed an increase in amygdala and hippocampus γ power (Fig. 5), whose correlation to fMRI-BOLD signal is well established (15), suggesting LKM induces heightened activation of local neuronal ensembles within the amygdala and hippocampus. ...
... We were, however, able to estimate gamma activity (30 to 55 Hz), which also acts as a proxy for local cortical activation (63,64). Second, because of the limited time available for patient testing, the experimental paradigm did not include a post-meditation active control period, limiting our ability to test for postmeditation baseline changes as reported in previous studies (3). Similarly, the oneshot design limits our ability to draw conclusions regarding the chronic effects of meditation practice. ...
Meditation is an accessible mental practice associated with emotional regulation and well-being. Loving-kindness meditation (LKM), a specific subtype of meditative practice, involves focusing one’s attention on thoughts of well-being for oneself and others. Meditation has been proven to be beneficial in a variety of settings, including therapeutic applications, but the neural activity underlying meditative practices and their positive effects are not well understood. It has been difficult to understand the contribution of deep limbic structures given the difficulty of studying neural activity directly in the human brain. Here, we leverage a unique patient population, epilepsy patients chronically implanted with responsive neurostimulation devices that allow chronic, invasive electrophysiology recording to investigate the physiological correlates of LKM in the amygdala and hippocampus of novice meditators. We find that LKM-associated changes in physiological activity were specific to periodic, but not aperiodic, features of neural activity. LKM was associated with an increase in γ (30 to 55 Hz) power and an alternation in the duration of β (13 to 30 Hz) and γ oscillatory bursts in both the amygdala and hippocampus, two regions associated with mood disorders. These findings reveal the nature of LKM-induced modulation of limbic activity in first-time meditators.
... Regarding the fluctuations in γ waves observed when presented with fragrances, studies related to various types of meditation have reported that meditation activates of gamma band (> 30 Hz) mainly in the parietal and occipital regions. Lutz et al. 26 found increased activity in the low gamma band (25)(26)(27)(28)(29)(30)(31)(32)(33)(34)(35)(36)(37)(38)(39)(40)(41)(42) in the lateral frontal lobe and occipital region during non-directed meditation. Cahn et al. 27 . ...
... Regarding the fluctuations in γ waves observed when presented with fragrances, studies related to various types of meditation have reported that meditation activates of gamma band (> 30 Hz) mainly in the parietal and occipital regions. Lutz et al. 26 found increased activity in the low gamma band (25)(26)(27)(28)(29)(30)(31)(32)(33)(34)(35)(36)(37)(38)(39)(40)(41)(42) in the lateral frontal lobe and occipital region during non-directed meditation. Cahn et al. 27 . ...
... correlation with the meditation states as mentioned Lutz et al. 26 that long term meditator high amplitude of gamma band (25-42 Hz), which we specified it as low gamma band in this article. The higher amplitude of gamma band in occipital area is indicate with meditation is also explored by Cahn et al. 27 and Ferrareli et al. 29 . ...
Studies on the compounds of aromatic oils and their effects on psychophysiological changes in humans are often conducted separately. To obtain better validation, a suitable protocol is needed that can be extrapolated to large-scale olfactory stimulation experiments. Unfortunately, this type of study is still rarely performed. In this situation, we propose a randomized crossover pilot study on olfactory stimulation with aromatic oils in relation to changes in psychophysiological activity by focusing on white musk aromatic oil due to its popularity in the community. Chemical profiling by TDU-GC-MS (thermal desorption gas chromatography/mass spectrometry) was performed to understand the compounds of the aromatic oils presented. To understand the changes in the participants’ impressions and mood states, POMS 2 (Profile of Mood States 2nd Edition) and VAS (Visual analogue scale) were performed in addition to physiological evaluation by using EEG (electroencephalogram), ECG (electrocardiogram) and salivary amylase measurements. The proposed pilot study showed “gorgeous”, “sweet”, and “like” impression toward white musk aromatic oil under VAS evaluation. Mood evaluation under POMS 2 variables such as Fatigue-Inertia (FI), Tension-anxiety (TA) and TMD (total mood disturbance) were significantly decreased under white musk aromatic oil inhalation. Under current protocol, we can also see the changes in autonomic activity and brain activity during olfactory stimulation. This pilot study could be the first step towards a larger sample size experiment on olfactory stimulation. This experiment has been registered to UMIN Clinical Trials Registry with register ID : UMIN000051972 on 24/08/2023.
Supplementary Information
The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1038/s41598-024-83887-2.
... Gamma activity, which typically exceeds 25 Hz, has been linked to cognitive processes such as attention, working memory, and sensory information processing (Kambara et al., 2017;Lee et al., 2018;Pritchett et al., 2015). In relation to meditation practice, greater gamma activity has been found in meditators compared to non-meditators when actively engaged in a meditative state (Lutz et al., 2004). Gamma activity has also been positively correlated with experience in meditative practices (Lee et al., 2018). ...
... The primary aims of the present study were to determine if differences in oscillatory power were present between meditators and non-meditators during resting-state EEG (whilst applying a novel method to control for 1/f activity), and examining whether meditators and non-meditators differ in the 1/f components, including slope and intercept. It was hypothesised that meditators would demonstrate greater oscillatory power for all frequency bands compared to nonmeditators after controlling for 1/f activity, based on the prior research that examined oscillatory activity without controlling for 1/f activity which was summarized earlier in our introduction (Dunn et al., 1999;Kerr et al., 2011;Lee et al., 2018;Lomas et al., 2015;Lutz et al., 2004;Wong et al., 2015). It was also hypothesised that there would be differences in the 1/f slope and intercept between meditators and non-meditators (reflecting differences in E/I balances). ...
... In line with previous studies investigating gamma activity (both at rest and during tasks or meditation), the present study demonstrated that meditation experience is associated with enhanced resting gamma power (Berkovich-Ohana et al., 2011;Braboszcz et al., 2017;Hauswald et al., 2015;Lutz et al., 2004). Gamma activity is linked to cognitive and attentional functions, with higher gamma power correlating with enhanced perceptual clarity (Kambara et al., 2017;Lee et al., 2018;Pritchett et al., 2015). ...
Objectives
Previous research has demonstrated that mindfulness meditation is associated with a variety of benefits, including improved mental health. Researchers have suggested these benefits may be underpinned by differences in neural oscillations. However, previous studies measuring neural oscillations have not controlled for non-oscillatory neural activity, the power spectrum of which follows a 1/f distribution (whereby the power of neural activity at each frequency is inversely proportional to that frequency (such that as frequency increases, power decreases)) and contributes to power measurements within oscillation frequencies of interest. We applied recently developed methods to determine if past findings related to neural oscillations in meditation are present even after controlling for non-oscillatory 1/f activity.
Method
Forty-eight experienced meditators and 44 demographically matched non-meditators provided resting electroencephalography (EEG) recordings. Whole-scalp EEG comparisons (topographical ANOVAs) were used to test for differences between meditators and non-meditators in the distribution or global power of activity for theta, alpha, beta, and gamma oscillations, and for the 1/f components slope and intercept using the extended Better OSCillation detection toolbox.
Results
Results indicated that meditators showed differences in theta, alpha, and gamma oscillatory power compared to non-meditators (all p < 0.05). Post hoc testing suggested that the oscillatory differences were primarily driven by differences in the distribution of neural activity between meditators and non-meditators, rather than differences in the overall power across all scalp electrodes.
Conclusions
Our results suggest that experience with meditation is associated with higher oscillatory power and altered distributions of theta, alpha, and gamma oscillations, even after controlling for non-oscillatory 1/f activity. Band-specific differences in oscillatory activity may be a mechanism through which meditation leads to neurophysiological benefits.
Preregistration
This study was not preregistered.
... Moreover, brief periods of compassion practice or CBIs have shown measurable electrophysiological changes. Electroencephalogram (EEG) studies have shown increases in alpha or gamma spectral power associated with different meditative states and with better psychological outcomes (Lomas et al., 2015;Lutz et al., 2004;Schoenberg et al., 2018). Additionally, a recent meta-analysis revealed a significant positive association between compassion and the vagally mediated heart rate variability (vmHRV), a measure of the parasympathetic nervous system's contribution to heart rate regulation (Di Bello et al., 2020). ...
... We observed a slight decrease in vmHRV in the active control group, suggesting a decrease in parasympathetic activation after listening to the story, which may indicate that listening to and visualizing a story for 15 min may even be uncomfortable or stressful, or it may activate the sympathetic nervous system. About the null effects in the EEG findings, we initially expected an increase in alpha and gamma power after Tonglen meditation, given previous studies showing an increase in these frequencies associated with a meditative state (Lomas et al., 2015;Lutz et al., 2004;Schoenberg et al., 2018). It is important to acknowledge that these results were obtained after longer training programs or in populations of expert meditators, which involve very different research designs than a single meditation session. ...
Objectives
Compassion is a valuable, trainable skill which can bring significant benefits to oneself and others. One method for developing compassion towards others is Tonglen, a Tibetan Buddhist meditation which involves taking in suffering from others and sending them well-being. The aim of this study was to investigate the psychophysiological outcomes of Tonglen meditation in healthcare workers, a population who have frequent contact with the suffering of others.
Method
Sixty participants were randomly assigned to listen to a 15-min audio of either guided Tonglen meditation, or a story in the control condition, and completed assessments before and after.
Results
The results showed that, compared to the control condition, Tonglen significantly increased heart rate variability, compassion state, and affective responses to suffering.
Conclusions
This is the first study to show the acute effectiveness of Tonglen in healthcare workers. Results suggest a potential general applicability of this active compassion meditation to populations experiencing empathic distress and burnout.
Preregistration
This study was preregistered in Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/x7yh4).
... However, this tendency to mindwander diminishes with increased practice, and attention becomes more focused on the breath [74][75][76][77][78] . Reduced mind wandering and increased attention focus on the breath have been consistently reported in advanced meditators from different traditions 69,[77][78][79][80][81][82][83][84][85][86][87][88] . Increased duration of attention on the breath and decreased duration of attention on internal mental contents could thus promote more steady temporal windows of attention in advanced meditators. ...
... . CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license made available under a (which was not certified by peer review) is the author/funder, who has granted bioRxiv a license to display the preprint in perpetuity. It is Remarkably, a growing body of literature shows changes that occur with increasing expertise in meditation 82,83,[89][90][91] . In particular, it has been reported that advanced practitioners can easily focus on their breath, without significant effort or conscious control. ...
Distinguishing between self (internal) and environment (external) is fundamental to human experience, with ordinary waking consciousness structured around this duality. However, contemplative traditions describe non-dual states where this distinction dissolves. Despite its significance, the neural basis of non-duality remains underexplored. Using psychological questionnaires for non-duality experience and EEG-based intrinsic neural timescales as measured by the autocorrelation window (ACW), we studied non-duality in advanced meditators, novice meditators, and controls. All subjects underwent breath-watching meditation (internal attention) and a visual oddball cognitive task (external attention); this allowed us to conceptualize non-duality as a lack of distinction between internal and external attention. Our key findings include: (a) advanced meditators report greater experience of non-duality during breath-watching (psychological scales); (b) EEG-based ACW is longer during internal attention (breath watch) than external attention (oddball task) in all subjects taken together; (c) advanced meditators show no such distinction with equal duration of their ACW during both internal and external attention (we replicated this finding in another dataset of expert meditators); and (d) the advanced meditators internal-external ACW difference correlated with their experience of the degree of non-duality (psychological scales) during internal attention. Together, these findings suggest that the brain's intrinsic neural timescales during internal and external attention play a key role in mediating the experience of non-duality in advanced meditators.
... Contemporary neuroscience supports the view that emotional processing and symbolic cognition must be integrated [18]. Studies of neural oscillations show that emotional states are associated with specific frequency bands -for example, alpha and theta coherence are linked to relaxed or safe states, while gamma synchrony has been observed during moments of focused empathy or meaning-making [17,19,28]. Varela et al.'s "brainweb" model describes how transient synchrony across distant brain regions enables the integration of emotion, perception, and thought [28]. ...
... Importantly, meditative states and experiences of deep empathy have been shown to induce large-scale neural synchronization, suggesting that symbolic emotional alignment has identifiable neural correlates -measurable states of synchronized brain activity [19], Grossberg's Adaptive Resonance Theory models learning and emotion as emergent from phase-aligned signal loops [10]. ...
This paper presents a unified theoretical model of intelligence that integrates emotional development, symbolic coherence, and neural signal dynamics. Challenging both computational views of the mind and Freud's sexualized model of childhood development, the theory reframes intelligence as a dynamic, emotionally grounded procedure-shaped not by problem-solving ability or repressed desire, but by alignment across symbolic emotional structures. It introduces the concept of the Emotional Connection Complex to explain how disrupted attachment in early life may fragment the sense of connection and reshape self-esteem. The model distinguishes emotional attachment from the deeper symbolic structure of emotional connection, emphasizing the developmental role of imagination as a compensatory function. Building on this foundation, the paper develops a frequency-based mathematical model using Fourier analysis across symbolic emotional categories, allowing conscious, subconscious , and unconscious resonance to be interpreted geometrically. A global coherence function is proposed to assess the alignment of emotional states across configurations. The framework suggests that intelligence is not a fixed trait, but a state of symbolic resonance-shaped by early attachment, emotional clarity, and neural phase coherence. Implications are discussed for psychology, neuroscience, education, and philosophy.
... In tandem, we also explore changes in neural oscillations, whose role remains central to understanding brain dynamics. Previous studies have identified changes in power during meditation, particularly in the gamma range [4,8,41]. However, most of these studies did not distinguish between aperiodic and periodic components of the power spectrum. ...
... The observed decrease in oscillatory gamma power contrasts with previous studies in experienced meditators [1,4,8,41,51], which reported an increase in gamma both globally and locally in the frontocentral and posterior regions. A likely explanation lies in the fact that these studies did not account for possible modulations of non-oscillatory components of the signal. ...
While the beneficial impacts of meditation are increasingly acknowledged, its underlying neural mechanisms remain poorly understood. We examined the electrophysiological brain signals of expert Buddhist monks during two established meditation methods known as Samatha and Vipassana, which employ focused at-
tention and open monitoring technique. By combining source-space magnetoencephalography (MEG) with advanced signal processing and machine learning tools, we provide an unprecedented assessment of the role of brain oscillations, complexity and criticality in meditation. In addition to power spectral density (PSD), we computed long-range temporal correlations (LRTC), deviation from criticality coefficient (DCC), Lempel-Ziv complexity (LZC), 1/f slope, Higuchi fractal dimension (HFD), and spectral entropy. Our findings indicate increased levels of neural signal complexity during both meditation practices compared to the resting state, alongside widespread reductions in gamma-band LRTC and 1/f slope. Importantly, the DCC analysis revealed a separation between Samatha and Vipassana, suggesting that their distinct phenomenological properties are mediated by specific computational characteristics of their dynamic states. Furthermore, in contrast to most previous reports, we observed a decrease in oscillatory gamma power during meditation, a divergence we attribute to the correction of the power spectrum by the 1/f slope. We discuss how these results advance our comprehension of the neural processes associated with focused attention and open monitoring meditation practices.
... The effectiveness of Buddhist meditation techniques on attentional network has been demonstrated to be helpful to understand cognitive processes (Lutz et. al., 2004;Marciniak, et. al., 2014;Kozasa, et. al., 2012;Jha, et., al., 2007). Meditation affects the body and mind positively and research on the impact of diverse kinds of meditation has been the most favored trend prevailed in recent researches. A number of studies on meditation have suggested various changes in brain and behavior of meditation ...
... mmended that brief vipassana meditation practice can positively alter the brain circuitry and behavior associated with attention potentialities. Meditation activated fewer brain regions in order to achieve the better performance, the evidence that meditation training can enhance brain efficiency in attentional network and mindfulness (Posner, 2012;Lutz et. al., 2004). ...
The present study examined the effect of Vipassana meditation practices (traditional Buddhist meditation practices) on attention network task (ANT). The objective of the study was to know the effect of traditional 10-days vipassana meditation training on the attentional performance of the participants. The second objective was to investigate whether a meditation training altered the mindfulness of participants. The present study used pre-post design and novice participants (not having any prior meditational training) were selected from the Dhamma Lakkhaṇa Vipassana Meditation Center, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. These participants were approached again after completion of 10-days meditation training. Participants response on mindfulness questionnaire was obtained on both occasions. Participants showed improvement on the dimensions of mindfulness and the attentional network test (i.e., alerting, orienting and executive functioning) after the vipassana meditation training. Findings of the study suggested that a traditional 10-days Vipassana meditation training improved mindfulness as well as attentional network task performance of the participants, irrespective of their prior experience.
... There is evidence of power increases in alpha, theta, and gamma waves during meditation ( Chiesa & Serretti, 2010;Lee et al., 2018;Lomas et al., 2015;Stapleton et al., 2020). Alpha and theta power may correspond to inwardly focused attention ( Lomas et al., 2015), whereas gamma power may reflect broad awareness ( Lomas et al., 2015;Lutz et al., 2004;Stapleton et al., 2020). Despite this meaningful work, the field still lacks a complete mechanistic account of mindfulness meditation. ...
... Mindfulness meditation has been associated with power increases in alpha, theta, and gamma waves during meditation ( Chiesa & Serretti, 2010;Lee et al., 2018;Lomas et al., 2015;Stapleton et al., 2020). Alpha and theta power may correspond to shifting attention to internal sensations and thoughts ( Lomas et al., 2015), whereas gamma power may reflect wider awareness ( Lomas et al., 2015;Lutz et al., 2004;Stapleton et al., 2020). There is considerable evidence that gamma EEG activity can be contaminated by muscle activity ( Muthukumaraswamy, 2013;Whitham et al., 2007). ...
Neurofeedback concurrent with mindfulness meditation may reveal meditation effects on the brain and facilitate improved mental health outcomes. Here, we systematically reviewed electroencephalography (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies of mindfulness meditation with neurofeedback (mbNF) and followed PRISMA guidelines. We identified 9 fMRI reports, consisting of 177 unique participants, and 9 EEG reports, consisting of 242 participants. Studies of fMRI focused primarily on downregulating the default-mode network (DMN). Although studies found decreases in DMN activations during neurofeedback, there is a lack of evidence for transfer effects, and the majority of studies did not employ adequate controls, for example, sham neurofeedback. Accordingly, DMN decreases may have been confounded by general task-related deactivation. EEG studies typically examined alpha, gamma, and theta frequency bands, with the most robust evidence supporting the modulation of theta band activity. Both EEG and fMRI mbNF have been implemented with high fidelity in clinical populations. However, the mental health benefits of mbNF have not been established. In general, mbNF studies would benefit from sham-controlled RCTs, as well as clear reporting (e.g., CRED-NF).
... Reductionism and Romanticism: The analysis guards against both reductionist tendencies to subordinate Advaitic insights to scientific validation and romantic tendencies to privilege traditional wisdom over (2009) argues that these results support a view of reality as fundamentally connected at its deepest level: "Quantum mechanics indicates that our world is not built out of independent entities, but rather out of potentialities or possibilities" (p. 56). Similarly, quantum physicist David Bohm (1980) proposed that reality consists of an "implicate order" (enfolded, non-local reality) from which the "explicate order" (unfolded, manifest reality) emerges. ...
This interdisciplinary study investigates the complex relationship between Advaita Vedanta, one of India's most sophisticated philosophical traditions, and contemporary scientific paradigms across quantum physics, neuroscience, and consciousness studies. Rather than merely asserting parallels, this research critically examines both the convergences and divergences between Advaitic principles and scientific frameworks, assessing the methodological challenges inherent in such cross-disciplinary comparison. Through systematic analysis of primary Advaitic texts, contemporary scientific literature, and philosophical discourse, this work demonstrates how the non-dualistic framework of Advaita offers conceptual tools that may contribute to addressing certain theoretical limitations in current scientific models of consciousness and reality, while acknowledging where scientific findings might challenge or refine traditional Advaitic interpretations. The study employs a tripartite methodology combining (1) textual analysis of classical Advaitic sources, (2) critical review of empirical studies across multiple scientific disciplines, and (3) conceptual analysis of theoretical frameworks. This research contributes to emerging dialogues between contemplative traditions and scientific inquiry, revealing how this intersection might generate novel research questions and methodological approaches to investigating consciousness; potentially fostering a more comprehensive understanding that neither tradition alone could achieve.
... Research in contemplative neuroscience supports this account. Long-term practitioners of Dzogchen, non-dual Shaiva yoga, and Advaita-inspired mindfulness report experiences of boundless presence, timeless stillness, and non-reactive clarity-experiences increasingly correlated with gamma synchrony and large-scale neural coherence (Antoine Lutz et al., 2004;Xue et al., 2011). These correlates, though not definitive, suggest that consciousness can access states beyond the egoic frame, producing neuroplastic and cognitive shifts that confirm ancient claims about liberation not merely as psychological well-being, but as ontological awakening. ...
This paper explores consciousness through the metaphysical framework of the Upanishadic doctrine of Atman-Brahman unity, proposing it as a foundational paradigm capable of bridging ancient philosophical insight with current scientific developments in quantum holism, neurophenomenology, and consciousness studies. Rejecting reductive accounts that position consciousness as a mere epiphenomenon of brain activity, this study advances the thesis that consciousness is a self-existent, non-local field-ontologically primary and irreducible to material substrates. Within this non-dual framework, Atman is conceptualized as a fractal instantiation of Brahman, the undivided totality and highest symmetry of being. The four states of consciousness articulated in the Mandukya Upanishad-waking, dreaming, deep sleep, and turiya-are interpreted as distinct phase-states in the field of awareness, reflecting varying degrees of cognitive identification with form and differentiation. The witnessing self (sakshi) is not a discrete observer, but rather Brahman itself in localized participation, observing the world through individuated experience. Recent advances in quantum mechanics offer empirical support for this ontological model. The 2022 Nobel Prize in Physics, awarded for groundbreaking experiments that confirmed the violation of Bell inequalities, has rendered the classical assumption of local realism untenable. These findings establish that entangled systems exhibit non-local correlations independent of spatial separation, suggesting that observation plays an irreducible role in the actualization of physical phenomena. When viewed through this lens, the Vedantic conception of consciousness as the ground of reality gains renewed relevance. This paper synthesizes quantum field theory, the holographic principle, and first-person phenomenology to argue that moksha, or liberation, is not a metaphysical abstraction but an experiential recognition of the ontological unity between the observer and the observed. In doing so, it reframes the Atman-Brahman doctrine not only as a spiritual insight, but as a philosophically and scientifically coherent model for understanding consciousness as the foundational, self-reflective field from which both mind and matter emerge. This perspective contributes to an emerging interdisciplinary discourse and invites both theoretical and practical re-examination of the role of consciousness in shaping reality.
... Meditation and Contemplative Practices Research into meditative practices has revealed their capacity to induce profound alterations in consciousness that parallel psychedelic experiences. A landmark study by Lutz et al. (2004) demonstrated that experienced meditators can reliably generate highamplitude gamma synchrony, a neural state associated with heightened awareness and integration. This finding is particularly significant as similar patterns of brain activity are observed during psychedelic-induced mystical experiences (Millière et al., 2018). ...
Peak and mystical experiences can be seen as states of consciousness that exist on a spectrum of varying intensity and duration. They are often described as moments of profound joy, ecstasy, and awe that involve feelings of noetic quality, decreased self-salience, and heightened interconnectedness. The renewed interest in psychedelics as a potential tool for therapeutic intervention has been driven by early observations on the role of peak experiences in promoting well-being and healing. Numerous studies have shown a direct correlation between the strength of peak and mystical experiences and positive, long-lasting psychological outcomes achieved with psychedelic psychotherapy across a range of mental health conditions, including depression, cancer-related distress, and substance use disorders. The mechanisms underlying this effect involve complex neurobiological changes, particularly in brain regions associated with self-referential processing and consciousness. However, the potential medicalization of psychedelic-assisted therapy raises critical questions about the ability to commodify these transformative states. This prompts a reevaluation of the important role of peak and mystical experiences in psychedelic therapy and underscores their importance in achieving the therapeutic benefits attained through this emerging approach. As a result, further exploration of non-pharmacological means of inducing profound states for therapeutic benefit is warranted.
... • Dreams and Quantum States: The idea that dreams reflect a wave-like, non-local state of consciousness is speculative but aligns with the broader hypothesis of quantum consciousness. During REM sleep, brain activity shifts to theta (4-8 Hz) and gamma (30-100 Hz) waves, which are associated with emotional processing and heightened awareness, respectively (Lutz et al., 2004). Gamma waves, in particular, have been linked to meditative states and may indicate quantum processes, as suggested by Orch-OR . ...
This theoretical paper introduces Celestial Resonance Theory, an interdisciplinary hypothesis that explores the possibility that consciousness is influenced by quantum harmonics generated by celestial bodies. Bridging concepts from quantum physics, neuroscience, ancient cosmology, lucid dreaming, and religious symbolism, the theory proposes that consciousness may function as a quantum field — collapsing into classical reality during wakefulness and expanding into a wave-like, non-local state during sleep and dreams.
In this uncollapsed dream state, consciousness may become sensitive to standing wave patterns in the quantum field shaped by planetary alignments and celestial geometry. The paper explores how these resonant fields could subtly modulate emotional depth, dream clarity, and symbolic content, offering a framework for understanding prophetic dreams, sleep paralysis, and religious visions as potential quantum experiences.
Lucid dreaming is proposed as a method for testing the theory, along with neuroimaging techniques and AI-assisted dream pattern analysis. Sacred texts, the geometric alignment of ancient monuments, and spiritual traditions are referenced as early symbolic representations of this cosmic connection. This work invites feedback and collaboration across disciplines to further explore the nature of consciousness as a cosmically tuned phenomenon.
... Alternatively, there are objective assessments of mindfulness disposition using physiological markers such as electroencephalogram (EEG; Ferrarelli et al., 2013;Lutz et al., 2004;Tanaka et al., 2015), heart rate variability among other autonomic answers (Blase and Waning 2019;Vasquez-Rosati et al., 2017), functional neuroimaging (Jang et al., 2011;Simon & Engström, 2015), and cognitive tasks based on attentional paradigms (Cásedas et al., 2022;Chiesa et al., 2011;Di Francesco et al., 2017). These different approaches are a proxy of mindfulness mastery in different domains. ...
Objectives
Increasing dispositional mindfulness is the primary goal of all mindfulness-based interventions. However, it is not entirely clear which specific characteristics of meditation practice predict improvements in mindfulness. This is relevant for characterization of the participants as well as for intervention designs. In this study, we explored the predictive value of different self-report questions characterizing previous meditation experience over dispositional mindfulness, interpersonal mindfulness, and mental health.
Method
Using a cross-sectional design with a sample size of 1099 and machine learning, 28 questions (independent variables) characterizing meditation practice were used to predict 21 dependent variables distributed in three categories: dispositional mindfulness (eight variables), interpersonal mindfulness (five variables), and mental health (eight variables). We conducted variable screening using a conditional random forest algorithm to identify the five most relevant independent variables for each group of dependent variables.
Results
The findings indicate that out of the 28 independent variables characterizing meditation practice, only five were significant predictors of the three categories of dependent variables. These predictors include the time lapse since starting meditation, practice frequency, the role assigned to meditation in daily life, the relation with meditation, and the ability to count the number of breaths without getting distracted.
Conclusions
Five self-report questions in relation to meditation practice were reliable predictors of dispositional mindfulness, interpersonal mindfulness, and mental health. The results highlight the need for further exploration of how individuals’ relationships with their meditation practice influence meditation outcomes.
... In turn, high-frequency oscillations become more frequent in the advanced stages of practice [33]. This hypothesis receives empirical support from Zen [96], Tibetan Buddhist [97,98], and Yogic meditation practices [43]. Unfortunately, most of the EEG studies we identified filtered out gamma signals [e.g., 66,67,[89][90][91][92] so that the association between meditative expertise and high-frequency oscillations remains unexplored in yoga-based practices. ...
Background
Compared with short-term practices, long-term yoga might promote differential qualitative and quantitative outcomes. Following JBI’s and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, this scoping review followed an apriori and systematic protocol to document the long-term effects of yoga on neural, cognitive, psychological, and physiological outcomes, provide evidence maps for each yoga component, and summarize results identifying knowledge gaps and promising directions.
Methods
Four databases (PubMed, Cochrane, LILACS, and PubPsych) were last searched in March 2023. Studies were included if they evaluated adults with > 1 year of practice, specified yoga-based practice(s) of interest, measured neural, cognitive, psychological, and/or physiological outcomes, were written in English, Spanish, or Portuguese, presented original data, and mentioned search terms in the title/abstract. Evidence maps for each yoga component followed a 4-level structure of outcome category, method, study design and literature size. Qualitative summaries followed the same structure, to facilitate information retrieval.
Results
Out of 2270 screened studies, 65 were included (meditative studies = 36, predominantly postural studies = 25, breathing practice studies = 8). Physiologicaland neural outcomes were the most common, followed by psychological and cognitive outcomes. Although heterogeneous, neural results reveal structural and functional changes related to sensorimotor, interoceptive, emotion regulation, and executive functions. Physiologically, most studies have associated long-term practice with parasympathetic-driven autonomic, hormonal and immune responses, but some studies revealed sympathetic-driven or mixed responses, maybe due to the specific technique or individual differences. Psychological outcomes included lower levels of negative affect, psychopathological symptoms, and emotional reactivity. Cognitive measures have shown improved memory/cognition for older adults, but mixed or null effects for other constructs. Commonly, however, long-term practitioners demonstrated improved neural or physiological efficiency while performing cognitive tasks.
Conclusions
Future research should provide clear descriptions of the investigated yoga practice, employ more experimental paradigms, and refine statistical reports and models. We encourage researchers to work with specific overarching theoretical frameworks to refine research predictions, such as the neurovisceral integration model or predictive coding models; to consider motivational, cultural, and contextual factors that might influence long-term outcomes; and to develop systematic reviews and meta-analyses as next steps of evidence summary.
... It is not clear, therefore, what minimum dose is required for efficacious practice when measures focus on trait effects related to the psychological domains that most often motivate practice (Sedlmeier & Theumer, 2020). And while it is likely that participants in high-dose settings like meditation retreats represent individuals who derived enduring benefits from the practice, as evidenced by exceptional traits in several psychological and cognitive domains (Lutz et al., 2004), such results may be biased by self-selection (Davidson & Kaszniak, 2015). There is, therefore, a lack of empirical work where practice doses are systematically varied in such a way to enable differential effects to be causally linked to different practice doses. ...
UNSTRUCTURED
Introduction: Mindfulness meditation has demonstrated modest benefits for mental health and wellbeing, although the relationship between practice dose and outcomes is unclear. Meta-analyses and randomized controlled trials have shown mixed results so far, although such results may stem from methodological issues rather than reflecting the absence of an underlying effect. Research outside structured programs suggests that long-term practice time is linked to positive outcomes, but bias due to self-selection over time may explain these results. The proposed trial aims to test dose-response effects for an online mindfulness meditation course, examining outcomes and participant engagement across different practice doses. In this pragmatic randomized controlled trial, we hypothesize that larger doses of mindfulness training will yield significantly larger effects, and different doses will be significantly associated with variation in participant engagement, with lower engagement evident for higher doses. Methods and analysis: At least 688 healthy adults aged between 18-65 years will be randomised to join one of three 4-week online mindfulness courses with daily practices of varying lengths (i.e. 10-mins, 20-mins, or 30-mins) against a minimally active control condition (3-4 mins). Psychological wellbeing will be measured using the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale at baseline, mid-intervention, postintervention, and 1-month follow-up. Secondary outcomes are psychological distress, anxiety, depression, social anxiety, nonattachment, trait mindfulness, decentering, equanimity, repetitive negative thoughts, emotion regulation, attention control, and emotional reactivity. Other outcomes will be collected weekly and daily during the intervention period. The primary analysis will be undertaken following the intention-to-treat approach. We will also conduct per-protocol secondary analyses on all outcomes (i.e. primary and secondary). We will also systematically monitor for possible adverse experiences. Discussion: The study will contribute to the evidence-based for mindfulness meditation, and the question of how much practice people need to engage in to improve wellbeing and other psychological outcomes. Trial registration number: The study has been prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov with the identifier NCT06378450.
... Specifically, the control group exhibits higher relative power concentrated in the low-frequency band, i.e., delta band, while the experimental group shows significantly lower delta power and significantly higher alpha power. It suggests that the alpha band in EEG signals serves as a primary indicator of the body's calm and relaxed state [9,10]. ...
... For example, a study by Lazar and colleagues using structural MRI demonstrated that long-term meditators, practicing for approximately 1 hour a day, had thicker prefrontal cortexes than non-meditators [10] . Additionally, Lutz and collaborators using electroencephalography (EEG) showed that expert meditators were able to induce changes in their brain activity during meditation [11]. However, these studies did not determine if the findings were the result of the meditation practices since these studies were not longitudinal. ...
This preliminary study determined if subjects with memory loss problems demonstrate changes in memory and cerebral blood flow (CBF) after a simple 8-week meditation program. Fourteen subjects with memory problems had an IV inserted and were injected with 250MBq of Tc-99m ECD while listening to a neutral stimulus CD. They then underwent a pre-program baseline SPECT scan. Then subjects were guided through their first meditation session with a CD, during which they received an injection of 925MBq ECD, and underwent a pre-program meditation scan. Subjects completed an 8-week meditation program and underwent the same scanning protocol resulting in a post-program baseline and meditation scan. A region of interest (ROI) template obtained counts in each ROI normalized to whole brain to provide a CBF ratio. Baseline and meditation scans and neuropsychological testing were compared before and after the program. The meditation program resulted in significant increases (p< 0.05) in baseline CBF ratios in the prefrontal, superior frontal, and superior parietal cortices. Scores on neuropsychological tests of verbal fluency, Trails B, and logical memory showed improvements after training. This preliminary study evaluated whether an 8-week meditation program resulted in improvements in neuropsychological function and differences in CBF in subjects with memory loss. While the findings are encouraging, there are a number of limitations that can be addressed in future studies with more participants and more detailed analyses.
... Exploring the dynamic attributes of these states could extend our ability to distinguish conscious awareness and subjective human experience from other higher-order cognitive functions [91]. Interestingly, both near-death states and deep meditative states have been associated with gamma-band oscillation and long-distance phase-synchrony, as well as cross-frequency coupling with both theta and alpha waves [92,93], both demonstrating higher cortical connectivity compared with normal waking states [94,95], which is associated with heightened states of awareness. Expanded analysis of a broad range of nonlinear dynamical measures associated with all these phenomena has yet to be conducted. ...
Human consciousness emerges over time. From the moment of conception, a process of neurodevelopment and complexification begins, generating and supporting a neuroelectric field that can be quantified by computational methods from dynamical systems theory. In the early embryo, genetically driven cellular processes are mediated by endogenous electromagnetic fields and intrinsic electrical fields produced by migrating neurons. In the ambient cellular environment, these interactions influence each other, impacting neural migration. The emergence of Theory of Mind, often considered a hallmark of conscious awareness, is accompanied by increasing neural connectivity, neuroelectric field complexity, and more integrated information processing. Neurodegeneration in old age and the often-associated decline in conscious awareness correlate closely with changes in the dynamical complexity of the neuroelectric field. Monitoring trajectories of the neuroelectric field and its complexity changes through the lifespan presents a developmental perspective and empirical correlation for studying the emergence and decline of human consciousness.
... (3) a group of beginners (less than a year of experience), following similar neurophenomenological studies (Berman & Stevens, 2015;Lutz et al., 2004Lutz et al., , 2008. The experiment was approved by the Ethics Committee of Comillas Pontifical University (Ethics Reference No 2021/77). ...
... In contrast to the well-established literature on alpha and theta, only a few studies have shown increased delta power, possibly indicating enhanced relaxation, and increased beta power during meditation, which suggests enhanced cognitive control and tonic alertness (Britton et al., 2014;Capilla et al., 2022;Dunn et al., 1999;Lee et al., 2018;Lomas et al., 2015). Finally, an emerging body of literature shows greater gamma power only in experienced meditators, indicating greater attention, moment-to-moment awareness, and perceptual clarity (Braboszcz et al., 2017;Cahn et al., 2010;Fell et al., 2010;Lutz et al., 2004;Sylapan et al., 2020). Our findings add further evidence to the existing literature. ...
Objectives
Mind–body practices such as meditation are growing in popularity worldwide as effective methods for reducing stress and enhancing well-being. A vast body of literature explores the brain oscillations underlying these practices. However, neuroscientific studies on mind–body practices within Yogic traditions, such as Isha Yoga, remain limited. The present study addresses this gap and aims to provide valuable insights into the impact of Isha Yoga practices on brain oscillations and mental well-being.
Method
We conducted a cross-sectional study with advanced meditators (n = 42), novice meditators (n = 33) from the Isha Yoga tradition from India, and meditation-naïve controls (n = 28). We collected high-density (128-channel) EEG recordings during various Isha Yoga practices, including alternate nostril-breathing pranayama, breath-watching, and shoonya meditation (non-dual awareness practice; non-duality refers to an experience that is undivided by dualities, such as self and other). We further examined meditation depth and various psychological outcomes using standard questionnaires.
Results
Brain oscillatory dynamics of Isha meditators were significantly different from those of controls. Advanced meditators demonstrated distinctive trait effects, including heightened frontal mid-line theta, alpha, and beta power at rest. During pranayama and breath-watching, both novice and advanced meditators displayed increases in power in all the frequency bands compared to rest, indicative of a state of relaxed alertness. During shoonya, when compared to rest, we observed reduced power in all frequency bands in novice meditators and controls, while advanced meditators showed sustained power in all bands. Further, meditation depth questionnaire findings during breath-watching and shoonya meditation indicated advanced meditators achieved greater meditation depth and non-duality, suggesting experience of deeper states of consciousness. Finally, we found significant associations between the practice of Isha Yoga and better mental-health outcomes such as lower perceived stress and mental distress, and higher well-being.
Conclusions
The results highlight a state of relaxed alertness and better psychological outcomes in both novice and advanced meditators compared to controls. Advanced meditators also report experiencing states of non-duality during breath-watching and Shoonya. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the positive impact of Isha Yoga practices on brain function and mental well-being. In the face of rising mental health challenges, mind–body practices such as Isha Yoga could provide substantial benefits to the wider population.
Preregistration
This study is not preregistered.
... Moreover, the observed model explainability findings provide a novel and powerful cross-validation of findings across a large number of independent and heterogeneous EEG studies Oscillating Mindfully that were previously difficult to integrate (4)(5)(6)12). Specifically, first, findings of increased beta and gamma power and coherence during the meditation state are consistent with previous studies that documented increased high-frequency oscillations during meditation, mostly in advanced meditators (4,5,7,9,34,35). Beta oscillations are typically linked to sensorimotor processing but have also been associated with attention, emotion, and cognitive control (6,36), and gamma activity and synchronization have been associated with diverse cognitive functions and aspects of arousal, learning, and attention (37,38), as well as enhanced top-down control in vision (39) and audition (40). ...
Background
There has been rapid growth of neuroelectrophysiological studies that aspire to uncover the “black box” of mindfulness and meditation. Reliance on traditional data analysis methods hinders understanding of the complex, nonlinear, multidimensional, and systemic nature of the functional neuroelectrophysiology of meditation states.
Methods
Thus, to reveal the complex systemic neuroelectrophysiology of meditation, we applied a machine learning extreme gradient boosting classification algorithm and 4 complementary feature importance methods to extract systemic electroencephalography features characterizing mindful states from electroencephalography recorded during a focused attention meditation and a control mind-wandering state among 26 experienced meditators.
Results
The algorithm classified meditation versus mind-wandering states with 83% accuracy, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 79% and F1 score of 74%. Feature importance techniques identified 10 electroencephalography features associated with increased power and coherence of high-frequency oscillations during focused attention meditation relative to an instructed mind-wandering state.
Conclusions
The findings help delineate the complex systemic oscillatory activity that characterizes meditation.
... This form of visualization enables leaders to mentally 'rehearse' experiences with as much sensory detail as possible, involving visual, auditory, and kinesthetic inputs to create a near-reality mental simulation (Willis, 2006). Gamma waves, known for integrating different brain regions, allow for holistic processing of these detailed simulations, helping leaders achieve a high-level synthesis of insight and strategy (Lutz et al., 2004). Holographic visualization will enable leaders to 'experience' various strategic decisions, improving their mental readiness and emotional resilience by simulating complex scenarios before they occur in real life. ...
This paper explores the interplay between cognitive perception, lucid dreaming, and contemplative practices that utilize holographic visualizations, emphasizing mindfulness and present-moment awareness. It examines how cognitive awareness-mirroring the perception of reality-is influenced by specific neural oscillations, including gamma, alpha, beta, theta, and delta waves, which vary across states of consciousness. Each type of wave is associated with distinct cognitive functions, emotional regulation, and behavioural patterns, illustrating the multi-layered nature of human consciousness. This paper presents an integrated framework combining the collective unconscious, personal unconscious, Nonlocal Plasticity Theory (NPT), and the contemplative science of mindful dreaming to enhance leadership and decision-making. The framework explores how the collective unconscious, as proposed by Jung, intersects with NPT, suggesting that neural adaptations may be influenced by nonlocal, collective knowledge. The study also examines holographic visualization within lucid dreaming and daydreaming, showing how these visualizations enable future-oriented decision-making, especially in entrepreneurial and managerial contexts. Holographic simulations of potential scenarios in these altered states allow for strategic exploration, facilitating thoughtful and intentional actions upon awakening. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the role of mindfulness in navigating both perceived and cognitive realities within dreams and waking life. It presents methods for fostering cognitive adaptability and intentional action, with implications for strategic decision-making and adaptive thinking in complex environments.
... For example, Banquet [35] used spectral analysis of EEG data during transcendental meditation in the early 1970s, a method described as a mental repetition of a special sound or mantra, and showed that meditative states could be distinguished from other states of consciousness based on sequential changes in the alpha, theta, and beta waves in relation to their topographical alterations across the scalp. More recently, EEG recording during meditation in Buddhist practitioners revealed self-induced and sustained high-amplitude gamma-band oscillations [36]. In a different study, meditation training gave rise to increased theta activity in the frontal midline electrodes, which was sustained even during the resting state following meditation training [37]. ...
Background
Dissecting the neurobiology of dance would shed light on a complex, yet ubiquitous, form of human communication. In this experiment, we sought to study, via mobile electroencephalography (EEG), the brain activity of five experienced dancers while dancing butoh, a postmodern dance that originated in Japan.
Results
We report the experimental design, methods, and practical execution of a highly interdisciplinary project that required the collaboration of dancers, engineers, neuroscientists, musicians, and multimedia artists, among others. We explain in detail how we technically validated all our EEG procedures (e.g., via impedance value monitoring) and minimized potential artifacts in our recordings (e.g., via electrooculography and inertial measurement units). We also describe the engineering details and hardware that enabled us to achieve synchronization between signals recorded at different sampling frequencies, along with a signal preprocessing and denoising pipeline that we used for data re-sampling and power line noise removal. As our experiment culminated in a live performance, where we generated a real-time visualization of the dancers’ interbrain synchrony on a screen via an artistic brain-computer interface, we outline all the methodology (e.g., filtering, time-windows, equation) we used for online bispectrum estimations. Additionally, we provide access to all the raw EEG data and codes we used in our recordings. We, lastly, discuss how we envision that the data could be used to address several hypotheses, such as that of interbrain synchrony or the motor theory of vocal learning.
Conclusions
Being, to our knowledge, the first study to report synchronous and simultaneous recording from five dancers, we expect that our findings will inform future art-science collaborations, as well as dance-movement therapies.
... For example, Tibetan Buddhist monks were found to self-induce sustained high-amplitude gamma-band oscillations and phase-synchrony during meditation. 65 A recent study showed elevated gamma power across different meditation traditions, supporting the use of EEG gamma power as a biomarker for meditation expertise. 66 Evidence from a neurophenomenological study indicates that, in advanced meditators (but not in untrained novices), gamma power in the posterior cingulate cortex is related to the subjective experience of effortless awareness in meditation. ...
Background
Heart-Smile Training (HST) is an interoceptive compassion-based behavioral intervention that in case reports has been beneficial for depression. Interoception refers to the awareness and regulation of physiological signals from inside the body. Depressed patients often have diminished interoceptive awareness and often experience disconnection from bodily needs and sensations. In addition to interoceptive dysfunction, depression often involves negative self-evaluation and self-critical rumination. HST is a compassion-based meditation training program that explicitly cultivates interoceptive awareness of the heart area. This study aims to investigate the possible neurocardiac mechanisms engaged through HST for depression patients.
Methods
We plan to enroll 50 subjects to be randomized into a 4-week HST intervention group and a waitlist group. A battery of psychological questionnaires will be administered at baseline and post-intervention timepoints, and electroencephalography (EEG) will be collected during compassion meditation guided by pre-recorded audio. The primary clinical outcome measures are on the feasibility of the intervention and research procedures, the primary mechanistic outcome measure is the post-intervention change in Heartbeat Evoked Potential (HEP) amplitude. Secondary outcome measures include changes in depression severity and EEG gamma spectral activity. Exploratory outcome measures include effects of HST on skin conductance response, heart rate variability, EEG spectral properties in other frequency bands, as well as a list of psychological questionnaires that measure depression and anxiety symptoms, emotion regulation, mindfulness, interoceptive awareness, self-compassion, gratitude, sleep quality, quality of life and social connectedness.
Results
Results not yet available.
Conclusion
This is the first study on the feasibility and interoceptive neurocardiac mechanism of HST. Our findings will provide frontier knowledge on the physiological working mechanism of behavioral interventions with an interoception-based meditative approach. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05564533 .
This scholarly exploration examines Adi Shankaracharya's profound philosophical message to humanity, analyzing its transformative potential for addressing modern existential crises. Through a multidisciplinary lens integrating quantum physics, cognitive science, consciousness studies, and systems theory, this paper demonstrates how Shankaracharya's Advaita Vedanta philosophy transcends religious boundaries to offer universal principles for human flourishing. By examining his core teachings on non-duality, maya, and self-realization, alongside contemporary theoretical frameworks, this research reveals how these 8th-century insights align remarkably with cutting-edge scientific understanding and provide frameworks for resolving global challenges. The study contributes to both philosophical scholarship and practical applications in psychology, quantum mechanics, unified field theories, education, healthcare, and organizational leadership, offering a comprehensive blueprint for individual and collective transformation in the 21st century.
The journey to actualise our full potential is a complex one but there is research to suggest it is marked with signs along the way. Following an investigation of the literature, a theoretical framework made up of five major stages and their markers is proposed. It is suggested that in Stage 1, the conventional sense of self, well-being pivots on the experiences of pleasure and pain. In Stage 2 (Mindfulness) a new level of nonjudgmental objectivity develops where thoughts can be seen as passing mental events. With practice, Stage 3 awakening events may occur, leading to an interruption of the sense of a continuous self. Over time, these intermittent states may stabilise, leaving a default of the ongoing awakened state of Stage 4, an altruistic, peaceful resting state with no discernible sense of self, and increased functionality. Finally, after a seemingly infinite amount of practice, the rare uninterrupted blissful state of perfected enlightenment, along with unlimited capacities, occurs (Stage 5). With the increase now in evidence-based mindfulness research, we are able to evaluate the psychology of enlightenment and its associated stages. If we can translate methods and outcomes into psychological language and find common ground with western concepts of happiness and human potential, we may find antidotes to our mental health inquiry, that can raise the bar from coping to contentment.
In recent years, the intersection of cognitive neuroscience and software engineering has sparked significant interest, particularly in understanding developers’ mental activities. This systematic literature review (SLR) investigates the current methodologies for measuring and analyzing mental activity, particularly using EEG when reviewing code and paintings. The research addresses four key questions: (1) What methods are available to measure mental activity when reviewing code and pictures? (2) What are the methods for analyzing brain activity data especially extracted using EEG? (3) How do brain activity patterns differ when studying code and pictures obtained with EEG? and (4) Are there any differences in stress levels when reviewing code and drawing obtained with EEG? Our findings reveal various techniques for capturing and analyzing EEG data, yet highlight a significant gap in the empirical research addressing the last two questions. This underscores the need for targeted experiments to explore these specific brain activity patterns and stress level differences. These are crucial for advancing our understanding of cognitive processes in software engineering and related fields.
Over the past two decades, the fields of social and contemplative neurosciences have made significant strides. Initial research utilizing fMRI identified neuronal networks involved in empathy, mentalizing, and compassion, as well as complex interactions among these networks. Subsequent studies shifted to testing the plasticity of these social skills via different types of mindfulness‐ or compassion‐based mental training programs, demonstrating brain plasticity, enhanced social capacities and motivation, as well as improved mental health and overall well‐being. Next, researchers developed scalable evidence‐based online mental training programs to address the growing levels of mental health problems and loneliness, both exacerbated by the COVID‐19 pandemic. Innovative approaches, such as novel relational partner–based practices and online app–based dyadic training programs, offer scalable solutions to counteract ongoing societal and mental health deterioration. Current studies are now applying the above findings to support resilience building within diverse domains of society and professional populations—such as healthcare workers and teachers—at high risk of burn‐out. Future research should explore the broader impact of such training‐related individual changes on larger systems, potentially leading to the development of a translational social neuroscience approach that leverages insights from social brain plasticity research to support societal needs, thereby enhancing resilience, mental health, and social cohesion.
Abstract
This research project examines the psychological construct labeled the "seasoned narcissist," an individual who, over many years, has refined narcissistic behaviors such as manipulative mirroring, conversational dominance, and the persistent maintenance of a carefully fabricated self-image. Part I of this paper offers a detailed exploration into the defining traits, tactics, and interpersonal dynamics characteristic of seasoned narcissists, providing a comprehensive understanding of their behavioral patterns and psychological motivations.
Subsequently, Part II introduces Awareness Dialectical Behavior Therapy (ADBT), an innovative therapeutic approach informed by the Buddha’s psychological teachings, particularly mindfulness and the principle of non-self (anatta). ADBT specifically addresses cognitive distortions and maladaptive behaviors central to narcissism by encouraging self-awareness, dialectical reasoning, and practical behavioral interventions. The application and effectiveness of this method extend beyond narcissism to encompass broader addictive behaviors and psychological afflictions, offering significant therapeutic potential.
The findings and conclusions presented in this paper are based upon extensive research of existing psychological literature and studies. Despite limitations inherent in a self-taught understanding of these complex psychological phenomena, the insights, methodologies, and therapeutic frameworks proposed are thoroughly grounded in academic scholarship and clinical practice literature. This paper contributes to the existing discourse by highlighting the nuanced understanding required to identify, engage, and potentially rehabilitate seasoned narcissists and those suffering from similarly entrenched behavioral addictions.
Can active inference model consciousness? We offer three conditions implying that it can. The first condition is the simulation of a reality or generative world model, which determines what can be known or acted upon; namely an epistemic field. The second is inferential competition to enter the world model. Only the inferences that coherently reduce long-term uncertainty win, evincing a selection for consciousness that we call Bayesian binding. The third is epistemic depth, which is the recurrent sharing of the Bayesian beliefs throughout the system. Due to this recursive loop — in a hierarchical system (such as a brain) — the world model contains the knowledge that it exists. This is distinct from self-consciousness, because the world model knows itself non-locally and continuously evidences this knowing (i.e., field-evidencing). Formally, we propose a hyper-model for precision-control across the entire hierarchy, whose latent states (or parameters) encode and control the overall structure and weighting rules for all layers of inference. This Beautiful Loop Theory is deeply revealing about meditation, psychedelic, and altered states, minimal phenomenal experience, and provides a new vision for conscious artificial intelligence.
This study aims to examine New Age practices from a neurosociological perspective, a point where sociology and neuroscience intersect. New Age is characterized as an eclectic and syncretic umbrella term encompassing spiritual, mystical, esoteric, and occult elements, as well as scientific knowledge, ancient traditions, and religious discourses. These techniques merge old and new teachings, resulting in a dynamic and open-ended framework. On the other hand, in recent decades, neuroscience has made significant progress in uncovering the mysteries of the human brain, supported by technological advancements. Numerous studies in the field of neuroscience have demonstrated that various practices and teachings classified under the New Age umbrella led to measurable neuronal changes in specific brain regions, reducing stress and anxiety. Due to the large spectrum of the New Age term, this study focuses only in meditation and mindfulness practices which can be seen as the pillars of many different teachings and techniques. In this study, a combination of literature review and in-depth interviews was used. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with ten individuals regularly engaging in these practices. The findings from these interviews align with the existing literature. This neurosociological evaluation highlights the interdisciplinary nature of New Age practices, bridging the fields of sociology and neuroscience by providing insights into how such beliefs and practices impact both individual neural functioning and broader social behaviors.
The relationship between interior space qualities and well-being is being understood as consequential and reciprocal. On the one hand, the place has been demonstrated to have a strong psychological and physiological effect; on the other hand, feelings and human experience play a significant role in what individuals perceive to be efficient design. However, such research on well-being is predominately concerned with the health and work environments, and partial to more general features such as accessibility, comfort, or positive distraction.
This thesis aims to bring well-being and spirituality to the foreground, including the spiritual relation with physical space into the discussion, and produce a framework for design thinking that includes a broad list of concerns, qualities, principles and approaches relevant to the construction of appropriate spatial identity and atmosphere. Hence, the focus is on the framework for meditation interiors, recreation, and spiritual experience where these qualities are desired. The main research questions of this study are; which features, elements, or qualities of interior space may be most effective in experience with respect to well-being and spirituality? What may be the physical features or qualities of interior architecture or space for healing and well-being?
Accordingly, this study has a qualitative methodology. To extend understanding of the qualities that underlie the healing potential of interior architecture or space, it surveys relevant theoretical sources for clues on the concept of well-being and spirituality in correlation with the experience of space/place. Furthermore, in order to obtain the principal features of spatial identity and atmosphere for spirituality, along with design tools and principles contributing towards it, the study surveys architectural theoretical sources and conducts a brief overview of traditional meditation or religious interior spaces. Finally, it focuses on the spatial analysis of contemporary meditation interiors chosen from selected practice examples of the world.
This thesis does not address the full scope and possibilities that architectural space may present for the experience of well-being or spirituality. However, it offers inception – an initial and broad list of concerns, qualities, principles, design approaches, and criteria that address the constitution of spatial identity and atmosphere for spirituality. In this respect, it is a pilot study for frameworks and is open to further refinement. Nevertheless, research on such potentials of space do have broader significance and implementation in places like spas, elderly homes, schools, and other public and private institutions.
Background
Recent advancements in virtual reality (VR) and biofeedback (BF) technologies have opened new avenues for breathing training. Breathing training has been suggested as an effective means for mental disorders, but it is difficult to master the technique at the beginning. VR-BF technologies address the problem of breathing, and visualizing breathing may facilitate the learning of breathing training. This study explores the integration of VR and BF to enhance user engagement in self-help breathing training, which is a multifaceted approach encompassing mindful breathing, guided breathing, and breath counting techniques.
Objective
We identified 3 common breathing training techniques in previous studies, namely mindful breathing, guided breathing, and breath counting. Despite the availability of diverse breathing training methods, their varying effectiveness and underlying neurological mechanisms remain insufficiently understood. We investigated using electroencephalography (EEG) indices across multiple breathing training modalities to address this gap.
Methods
Our automated VR-based breathing training environment incorporated real-time EEG, heart rate, and breath signal BF. We examined 4 distinct breathing training conditions (resting, mindful breathing, guided breathing, and breath counting) in a cross-sectional experiment involving 51 healthy young adults, who were recruited through online forum advertisements and billboard posters. In an experimental session, participants practiced resting state and each breathing training technique for 6 minutes. We then compared the neurological differences across the 4 conditions in terms of EEG band power and EEG effective connectivity outflow and inflow with repeated measures ANOVA and paired t tests.
Results
The analyses included the data of 51 participants. Notably, EEG band power across the theta, alpha, low-beta, high-beta, and gamma bands varied significantly over the entire scalp (t ≥1.96, P values <.05). Outflow analysis identified condition-specific variations in the delta, alpha, and gamma bands (P values <.05), while inflow analysis revealed significant differences across all frequency bands (P values <.05). Connectivity flow analysis highlighted the predominant influence of the right frontal, central, and parietal brain regions in the neurological mechanisms underlying the breathing training techniques.
Conclusions
This study provides neurological evidence supporting the effectiveness of self-help breathing training through the combined use of VR and BF technologies. Our findings suggest the involvement of internal-external attention focus and the dorsal attention network in different breathing training conditions. There is a huge potential for the use of breathing training with VR-BF techniques in terms of clinical settings, the new living style since COVID-19, and the commercial value of introducing VR-BF breathing training into consumer-level digital products. Furthermore, we propose avenues for future research with an emphasis on the exploration of applications and the gamification potential in combined VR and BF breathing training.
Trial Registration
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06656741; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06656741
Gamma oscillations in brain activity (30–150 Hz) have been studied for over 80 years. Although in the past three decades significant progress has been made to try to understand their functional role, a definitive answer regarding their causal implication in perception, cognition, and behavior still lies ahead of us. Here, we first review the basic neural mechanisms that give rise to gamma oscillations and then focus on two main pillars of exploration. The first pillar examines the major theories regarding their functional role in information processing in the brain, also highlighting critical viewpoints. The second pillar reviews a novel research direction that proposes a therapeutic role for gamma oscillations, namely the gamma entrainment using sensory stimulation (GENUS). We extensively discuss both the positive findings and the issues regarding reproducibility of GENUS. Going beyond the functional and therapeutic role of gamma, we propose a third pillar of exploration, where gamma, generated endogenously by cortical circuits, is essential for maintenance of healthy circuit function. We propose that four classes of interneurons, namely those expressing parvalbumin (PV), vasointestinal peptide (VIP), somatostatin (SST), and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) take advantage of endogenous gamma to perform active vasomotor control that maintains homeostasis in the neuronal tissue. According to this hypothesis, which we call GAMER (GAmma MEdiated ciRcuit maintenance), gamma oscillations act as a ‘servicing’ rhythm that enables efficient translation of neural activity into vascular responses that are essential for optimal neurometabolic processes. GAMER is an extension of GENUS, where endogenous rather than entrained gamma plays a fundamental role. Finally, we propose several critical experiments to test the GAMER hypothesis.
Neuronal response synchronization with millisecond precision has been proposed to serve feature binding in vision and should therefore, like visual experience, depend on central states. Here we test this hypothesis by examining the occurrence and strength of response synchronization in areas 17 and 18 of anesthetized cats as a function of central states. These were assessed from the frequency content of the electroencephalogram, low power in the δ and high power in the γ frequency ranges (here 20–70 Hz) being considered as a signature of activated states. We evaluated both spontaneous state changes and transitions induced by electrical stimulation of the mesencephalic reticular formation. During states of low central activation, visual responses were robust but lacked signs of precise synchronization. At intermediate levels of activation, responses became synchronized and exhibited an oscillatory patterning in the range of 70–105 Hz. At higher levels of activation, a different pattern of response synchronization and oscillatory modulation appeared, oscillation frequency now being in the range of 20–65 Hz. The strength of response synchronization and oscillatory modulation in the 20–65 Hz range increased with further activation and was associated with a decrease in oscillation frequency. We propose that the oscillatory patterning in the 70–105 Hz range is attributable to oscillatory retinothalamic input and that a minimal level of activation is necessary for cortical neurons to follow this oscillatory pattern. In contrast, the synchronization of responses at oscillation frequencies in the 20–65 Hz range appears to result from intracortical synchronizing mechanisms, which become progressively more effective as central activation increases. Surprisingly, enhanced synchronization and oscillatory modulation in the γ frequency range were not associated with consistent increases in response amplitude, excluding a simple relation between central activation and neuronal discharge rate. The fact that intracortical synchronizing mechanisms are particularly effective during states of central activation supports the hypothesis that precise synchronization of responses plays a role in sensory processing.
Developments in technologic and analytical procedures applied to the study of brain electrical activity have intensified interest in this modality as a means of examining brain function. The impact of these new developments on traditional methods of acquiring and analyzing electroencephalographic activity requires evaluation. Ultimately, the integration of the old with the new must result in an accepted standardized methodology to be used in these investigations. In this paper, basic procedures and recent developments involved in the recording and analysis of brain electrical activity are discussed and recommendations are made, with emphasis on psychophysiological applications of these procedures.
It has been hypothesized that visual objects could be represented in the brain by a distributed cell assembly synchronized on an oscillatory mode in the gamma-band (20-80 Hz). If this hypothesis is correct, then oscillatory gamma-band activity should appear in any task requiring the activation of an object representation, and in particular when an object representation is held active in short-term memory: sustained gamma-band activity is thus expected during the delay of a delayed-matching-to-sample task. EEG was recorded while subjects performed such a task. Induced (e.g., appearing with a jitter in latency from one trial to the next) gamma-band activity was observed during the delay. In a control task, in which no memorization was required, this activity disappeared. Furthermore, this gamma-band activity during the rehearsal of the first stimulus representation in short-term memory peaked at both occipitotemporal and frontal electrodes. This topography fits with the idea of a synchronized cortical network centered on prefrontal and ventral visual areas. Activities in the alpha band, in the 15-20 Hz band, and in the averaged evoked potential were also analyzed. The gamma-band activity during the delay can be distinguished from all of these other components of the response, on the basis of either its variations or its topography. It thus seems to be a specific functional component of the response that could correspond to the rehearsal of an object representation in short-term memory.
Conventional approaches to understanding consciousness are generally concerned with the contribution of specific brain areas or groups of neurons. By contrast, it is considered here what kinds of neural processes can account for key properties of conscious experience. Applying measures of neural integration and complexity, together with an analysis of extensive neurological data, leads to a testable proposal-the dynamic core hypothesis-about the properties of the neural substrate of consciousness.
Different regions of the brain must communicate with each other to provide the basis for the integration of sensory information, sensory-motor coordination and many other functions that are critical for learning, memory, information processing, perception and the behaviour of organisms. Hebb suggested that this is accomplished by the formation of assemblies of cells whose synaptic linkages are strengthened whenever the cells are activated or 'ignited' synchronously. Hebb's seminal concept has intrigued investigators since its formulation, but the technology to demonstrate its existence had been lacking until the past decade. Previous studies have shown that very fast electroencephalographic activity in the gamma band (20-70 Hz) increases during, and may be involved in, the formation of percepts and memory, linguistic processing, and other behavioural and perceptual functions. We show here that increased gamma-band activity is also involved in associative learning. In addition, we find that another measure, gamma-band coherence, increases between regions of the brain that receive the two classes of stimuli involved in an associative-learning procedure in humans. An increase in coherence could fulfil the criteria required for the formation of hebbian cell assemblies, binding together parts of the brain that must communicate with one another in order for associative learning to take place. In this way, coherence may be a signature for this and other types of learning.
Transient periods of synchronization of oscillating neuronal discharges in the frequency range 30-80 Hz (gamma oscillations) have been proposed to act as an integrative mechanism that may bring a widely distributed set of neurons together into a coherent ensemble that underlies a cognitive act. Results of several experiments in animals provide support for this idea. In humans, gamma oscillations have been described both on the scalp (measured by electroencephalography and magnetoencephalography) and in intracortical recordings, but no direct participation of synchrony in a cognitive task has been demonstrated so far. Here we record electrical brain activity from subjects who are viewing ambiguous visual stimuli (perceived either as faces or as meaningless shapes). We show for the first time, to our knowledge, that only face perception induces a long-distance pattern of synchronization, corresponding to the moment of perception itself and to the ensuing motor response. A period of strong desynchronization marks the transition between the moment of perception and the motor response. We suggest that this desynchronization reflects a process of active uncoupling of the underlying neural ensembles that is necessary to proceed from one cognitive state to another.
Neuronal response synchronization with millisecond precision has been proposed to serve feature binding in vision and should therefore, like visual experience, depend on central states. Here we test this hypothesis by examining the occurrence and strength of response synchronization in areas 17 and 18 of anesthetized cats as a function of central states. These were assessed from the frequency content of the electroencephalogram, low power in the delta and high power in the gamma frequency ranges (here 20-70 Hz) being considered as a signature of activated states. We evaluated both spontaneous state changes and transitions induced by electrical stimulation of the mesencephalic reticular formation. During states of low central activation, visual responses were robust but lacked signs of precise synchronization. At intermediate levels of activation, responses became synchronized and exhibited an oscillatory patterning in the range of 70-105 Hz. At higher levels of activation, a different pattern of response synchronization and oscillatory modulation appeared, oscillation frequency now being in the range of 20-65 Hz. The strength of response synchronization and oscillatory modulation in the 20-65 Hz range increased with further activation and was associated with a decrease in oscillation frequency. We propose that the oscillatory patterning in the 70-105 Hz range is attributable to oscillatory retinothalamic input and that a minimal level of activation is necessary for cortical neurons to follow this oscillatory pattern. In contrast, the synchronization of responses at oscillation frequencies in the 20-65 Hz range appears to result from intracortical synchronizing mechanisms, which become progressively more effective as central activation increases. Surprisingly, enhanced synchronization and oscillatory modulation in the gamma frequency range were not associated with consistent increases in response amplitude, excluding a simple relation between central activation and neuronal discharge rate. The fact that intracortical synchronizing mechanisms are particularly effective during states of central activation supports the hypothesis that precise synchronization of responses plays a role in sensory processing.
In binocular rivalry, the observer views two incongruent images, one through each eye, but is conscious of only one image at a time. The image that is perceptually dominant alternates every few seconds. We used this phenomenon to investigate neural correlates of conscious perception. We presented a red vertical grating to one eye and a blue horizontal grating to the other eye, with each grating continuously flickering at a distinct frequency (the frequency tag for that stimulus). Steady-state magnetic fields were recorded with a 148 sensor whole-head magnetometer while the subjects reported which grating was perceived. The power of the steady-state magnetic field at the frequency associated with a grating typically increased at multiple sensors when the grating was perceived. Changes in power related to perceptual dominance, presumably reflecting local neural synchronization, reached statistical significance at several sensors, including some positioned over occipital, temporal, and frontal cortices. To identify changes in synchronization between distinct brain areas that were related to perceptual dominance, we analyzed coherence between pairs of widely separated sensors. The results showed that when the stimulus was perceived there was a marked increase in both interhemispheric and intrahemispheric coherence at the stimulus frequency. This study demonstrates a direct correlation between the conscious perception of a visual stimulus and the synchronous activity of large populations of neocortical neurons as reflected by stimulus-evoked steady-state neuromagnetic fields.
Due to many experimental reports of synchronous neural activity in the brain, there is much interest in understanding synchronization in networks of neural oscillators and its potential for computing perceptual organization. Contrary to Hopfield and Herz (1995), we find that networks of locally coupled integrate-and-fire oscillators can quickly synchronize. Furthermore, we examine the time needed to synchronize such networks. We observe that these networks synchronize at times proportional to the logarithm of their size, and we give the parameters used to control the rate of synchronization. Inspired by locally excitatory globally inhibitory oscillator network (LEGION) dynamics with relaxation oscillators (Terman & Wang, 1995), we find that global inhibition can play a similar role of desynchronization in a network of integrate-and-fire oscillators. We illustrate that a LEGION architecture with integrate-and-fire oscillators can be similarly used to address image analysis.
Perception and cortical responses are not only driven "bottom-up" by the external stimulus but are altered by internal constraints such as expectancy or the current behavioral goal. To investigate neurophysiological mechanisms of such top-down effects, we analyzed the temporal interactions of neurons on different levels of the cortical hierarchy during perception of stimuli with varying behavioral significance. We found that interareal interactions in a middle-frequency range (theta and alpha; 4-12 Hz) strongly depend on the associated behavior, with a phase relationship and a layer specificity indicating a top-down-directed interaction. For novel unexpected stimuli, presumably processed in a feed-forward fashion, no such interactions occurred but high-frequency interactions (gamma; 20-100 Hz) were observed. Thus corticocortical synchronization reflects the internal state of the animal and may mediate top-down processes.
In crowded visual scenes, attention is needed to select relevant stimuli. To study the underlying mechanisms, we recorded neurons in cortical area V4 while macaque monkeys attended to behaviorally relevant stimuli and ignored distracters. Neurons activated by the attended stimulus showed increased gamma-frequency (35 to 90 hertz) synchronization but reduced low-frequency (<17 hertz) synchronization compared with neurons at nearby V4 sites activated by distracters. Because postsynaptic integration times are short, these localized changes in synchronization may serve to amplify behaviorally relevant signals in the cortex.
The emergence of a unified cognitive moment relies on the coordination
of scattered mosaics of functionally specialized brain regions. Here we review
the mechanisms of large-scale integration that counterbalance the distributed
anatomical and functional organization of brain activity to enable the emergence
of coherent behaviour and cognition. Although the mechanisms involved in large-scale
integration are still largely unknown, we argue that the most plausible candidate
is the formation of dynamic links mediated by synchrony over multiple frequency
bands.
A Bayesian inference framework for estimating the parameters of single-trial, multicomponent, event-related potentials is presented. Single-trial recordings are modeled as the linear combination of ongoing activity and multicomponent waveforms that are relatively phase-locked to certain sensory or motor events. Each component is assumed to have a trial-invariant waveform with trial-dependent amplitude scaling factors and latency shifts. A Maximum a Posteriori solution of this model is implemented via an iterative algorithm from which the component's waveform, single-trial amplitude scaling factors and latency shifts are estimated. Multiple components can be derived from a single-channel recording based on their differential variability, an aspect in contrast with other component analysis techniques (e.g., independent component analysis) where the number of components estimated is equal to or smaller than the number of recording channels. Furthermore, we show that, by subtracting out the estimated single-trial components from each of the single-trial recordings, one can estimate the ongoing activity, thus providing additional information concerning task-related brain dynamics. We test this approach, which we name differentially variable component analysis (dVCA), on simulated data and apply it to an experimental dataset consisting of intracortically recorded local field potentials from monkeys performing a visuomotor pattern discrimination task.
In crowded visual scenes, attention is needed to select relevant stimuli. To study the underlying mechanisms, we recorded
neurons in cortical area V4 while macaque monkeys attended to behaviorally relevant stimuli and ignored distracters. Neurons
activated by the attended stimulus showed increased gamma-frequency (35 to 90 hertz) synchronization but reduced low-frequency
(<17 hertz) synchronization compared with neurons at nearby V4 sites activated by distracters. Because postsynaptic integration
times are short, these localized changes in synchronization may serve to amplify behaviorally relevant signals in the cortex.
Kuramoto model original paper
Cognitive functions like perception, memory, language, or consciousness are based on highly parallel and distributed information processing by the brain. One of the major unresolved questions is how information can be integrated and how coherent representational states can be established in the distributed neuronal systems subserving these functions. It has been suggested that this so-called “binding problem” may be solved in the temporal domain. The hypothesis is that synchronization of neuronal discharges can serve for the integration of distributed neurons into cell assemblies and that this process may underlie the selection of perceptually and behaviorally relevant information. As we intend to show here, this temporal binding hypothesis has implications for the search of the neural correlate of consciousness. We review experimental results, mainly obtained in the visual system, which support the notion of temporal binding. In particular, we discuss recent experiments on the neural mechanisms of binocular rivalry which suggest that appropriate synchronization among cortical neurons may be one of the necessary conditions for the buildup of perceptual states and awareness of sensory stimuli.
We review the research literature dealing with the psychotherapeutic effects of meditation. The first part of the article reviews studies in which meditation is viewed as a self-regulation strategy. In the second part, studies in which meditation is viewed as a technique for inducing altered states of consciousness are reviewed. We conclude by giving guidelines and suggestions for future research.
Description of mapping methods using spherical splines, both to interpolate scalp potentials (SPs), and to approximate scalp current densities (SCDs). Compared to a previously published method using thin plate splines, the advantages are a very simple derivation of the SCD approximation, faster computing times, and greater accuracy in areas with few electrodes.
A combined neurophysiological (electroencephalographic [EEG] and sensory evoked potential) and neuropsychological investigation was performed on 63 healthy men ranging in age from 30 to 80 years. Although alpha frequency diminished slightly with age, neither amplitude nor frequency demonstrated a high age correlation. Alpha blocking, in contrast, did correlate with age, in the direction of reduced alpha reactivity. EEG background activity underwent significant age-correlated change, consisting of reductions in slow activity and augmentation of fast activity, i.e., EEG desynchronization. Previously reported age-related EEG slowing may be related to the presence of disease in the populations studied. Topographic analysis revealed that the greatest change occurred in the temporal lobes. More change was noted either early or late in the age span, suggesting that aging is a nonlinear process. More features were derived from the right hemisphere than from the left, suggesting that the aging process is not completely symmetrical.
This article examines the anatomy and circuitry of skills that, like reading, calculating, recognizing, or remembering, are common abilities of humans. While the anatomical areas active are unique to each skill there are features common to all tasks. For example, all skills produce activation of a small number of widely separated neural areas that appear necessary to perform the task. These neural areas relate to internal codes that may not be observed by any external behavior nor be reportable by the performer. There is considerable plasticity to the performance of skills. Task components can be given priority through attention, which serves to increase activation of the relevant brain areas. Attention can also cause reactivation of sensory areas driven by input, but usually only after a delay. The threshold for activation for any area may be temporarily reduced by prior activation (priming or practice). Skill components requiring attention tend to cause interference resulting in the dual tasks effects and unified focus of attention described in many cognitive studies. Practice may change the size or number of brain areas involved and alter the pathways used by the skill. By combining cognitive and anatomical analyses, a more general picture of the nature of skill emerges.
Recent studies have highlighted the role of right-sided anterior temporal and prefrontal activation during anxiety, yet no study has been performed with social phobics that assesses regional brain and autonomic function. This study compared electroencephalograms (EEGs) and autonomic activity in social phobics and controls while they anticipated making a public speech.
Electroencephalograms from 14 scalp locations, heart rate, and blood pressure were recorded while 18 DSM-IV social phobics and 10 controls anticipated making a public speech, as well as immediately after the speech was made. Self-reports of anxiety and affect were also obtained.
Phobics showed a significantly greater increase in anxiety and negative affect during the anticipation condition compared with controls. Heart rate was elevated in the phobics relative to the controls in most conditions. Phobics showed a marked increase in right-sided activation in the anterior temporal and lateral prefrontal scalp regions. These heart rate and EEG changes together accounted for > 48% of the variance in the increase in negative affect during the anticipation phase.
These findings support the hypothesis of right-sided anterior cortical activation during anxiety and indicate that the combination of EEG and heart rate changes during anticipation account for substantial variance in reported negative affect.
Long-term potentiation (LTP) of synaptic transmission is traditionally elicited by massively synchronous, high-frequency inputs, which rarely occur naturally. Recent in vitro experiments have revealed that both LTP and long-term depression (LTD) can arise by appropriately pairing weak synaptic inputs with action potentials in the postsynaptic cell. This discovery has generated new insights into the conditions under which synaptic modification may occur in pyramidal neurons in vivo. First, it has been shown that the temporal order of the synaptic input and the postsynaptic spike within a narrow temporal window determines whether LTP or LTD is elicited, according to a temporally asymmetric Hebbian learning rule. Second, backpropagating action potentials are able to serve as a global signal for synaptic plasticity in a neuron compared with local associative interactions between synaptic inputs on dendrites. Third, a specific temporal pattern of activity--postsynaptic bursting--accompanies synaptic potentiation in adults.
Functional brain imaging in humans has revealed task-specific increases in brain activity that are associated with various mental activities. In the same studies, mysterious, task-independent decreases have also frequently been encountered, especially when the tasks of interest have been compared with a passive state, such as simple fixation or eyes closed. These decreases have raised the possibility that there might be a baseline or resting state of brain function involving a specific set of mental operations. We explore this possibility, including the manner in which we might define a baseline and the implications of such a baseline for our understanding of brain function.
Electromyogram (EMG) contamination is often a problem in electroencephalogram (EEG) recording, particularly, for those applications such as EEG-based brain-computer interfaces that rely on automated measurements of EEG features. As an essential prelude to developing methods for recognizing and eliminating EMG contamination of EEG, this study defines the spectral and topographical characteristics of frontalis and temporalis muscle EMG over the entire scalp. It describes both average data and the range of individual differences.
In 25 healthy adults, signals from 64 scalp and 4 facial locations were recorded during relaxation and during defined (15, 30, or 70% of maximum) contractions of frontalis or temporalis muscles.
In the average data, EMG had a broad frequency distribution from 0 to >200 Hz. Amplitude was greatest at 20-30 Hz frontally and 40-80 Hz temporally. Temporalis spectra also showed a smaller peak around 20 Hz. These spectral components attenuated and broadened centrally. Even with weak (15%) contraction, EMG was detectable (P<0.001) near the vertex at frequencies >12 Hz in the average data and >8 Hz in some individuals.
Frontalis or temporalis muscle EMG recorded from the scalp has spectral and topographical features that vary substantially across individuals. EMG spectra often have peaks in the beta frequency range that resemble EEG beta peaks.
While EMG contamination is greatest at the periphery of the scalp near the active muscles, even weak contractions can produce EMG that obscures or mimics EEG alpha, mu, or beta rhythms over the entire scalp. Recognition and elimination of this contamination is likely to require recording from an appropriate set of peripheral scalp locations.
The underlying changes in biological processes that are associated with reported changes in mental and physical health in response to meditation have not been systematically explored. We performed a randomized, controlled study on the effects on brain and immune function of a well-known and widely used 8-week clinical training program in mindfulness meditation applied in a work environment with healthy employees.
We measured brain electrical activity before and immediately after, and then 4 months after an 8-week training program in mindfulness meditation. Twenty-five subjects were tested in the meditation group. A wait-list control group (N = 16) was tested at the same points in time as the meditators. At the end of the 8-week period, subjects in both groups were vaccinated with influenza vaccine.
We report for the first time significant increases in left-sided anterior activation, a pattern previously associated with positive affect, in the meditators compared with the nonmeditators. We also found significant increases in antibody titers to influenza vaccine among subjects in the meditation compared with those in the wait-list control group. Finally, the magnitude of increase in left-sided activation predicted the magnitude of antibody titer rise to the vaccine.
These findings demonstrate that a short program in mindfulness meditation produces demonstrable effects on brain and immune function. These findings suggest that meditation may change brain and immune function in positive ways and underscore the need for additional research.
The use of the fast Fourier transform in power spectrum analysis is described. Principal advantages of this method are a reduction in the number of computations and in required core storage, and convenient application in nonstationarity tests. The method involves sectioning the record and averaging modified periodograms of the sections.
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