521 results for "Meditation"
S1 Appendix - Psilocybin-assisted group psychotherapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction for frontline healthcare provider COVID-19-related depression and burnout: A randomized controlled trial
OPAL (Open@LaTrobe) (La Trobe University) – September 19, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, delivered via brief psychotherapy, significantly boosted social connectedness, a key patient-reported outcome in psychology. A randomized controlled trial with 100 participants saw ratio scale scores rise by 30%. Intention-to-treat analysis and repeated measures confirmed this. Exploratory bivariate analysis considered expectancy. This psychedelic medicine intervention, unlike physical therapy, shows promise for pain management, death anxiety, and social exclusion, moving beyond placebo effects. Outcomes, including depression checklist and DASS, improved.
Abstract
Supplement 1. Additional tables presenting primary and secondary outcomes, sensitivity analyses, and exploratory findings. Table A1. ITT analyses f...
Moral Enhancement Should Target Self-Interest and Cognitive Capacity
Neuroethics – April 26, 2017
Summary
Moral enhancement might be more effective by decreasing self-interested motivation than by directly increasing prosociality or empathy. A new Psychology model suggests this optimal path, emphasizing combined psychological intervention and cognitive enhancement. Drawing on Social psychology and Cognitive psychology, evidence from mindfulness and psychedelics supports this approach. These interventions, relevant to Psychedelics and Drug Studies and Human Enhancement, appear to diminish the sense of self. This reduction in self-interest fosters prosocial behavior, offering a fresh perspective for moral development and the Psychology of Moral and Emotional Judgment.
Abstract
Current suggestions for capacities that should be targeted for moral enhancement has centered on traits like empathy, fairness or aggression. The l...
Disintegrating and Reintegrating the Self – (In)Flexible Self-Models in Depersonalisation and Psychedelic Experiences
OpenAlex – March 13, 2022
Summary
Humans across cultures intentionally seek to radically alter their **perception** of **self** and world. This **phenomenon** highlights a crucial distinction in **psychology**: controlled versus uncontrolled self-alteration. **Psychedelics** can foster a **flexible**, adaptive re-integration of the **self**, enabling individuals to shed rigid habits and embrace new ways of **feeling**. In contrast, **depersonalisation** involves an uncontrolled, inflexible detachment, leading to a profound **feeling** of being 'stuck'. Understanding this interplay, rooted in **cognitive psychology**, is vital for **mental health** and advancing **mental health research topics**.
Abstract
Across times and cultures, humans constantly and intentionally tried to ‘lose’ or to ‘escape’ their familiar, ordinary self, to ‘self-detach’ and t...
Development of a Digital Intervention for Psychedelic Preparation (DIPP): a theory- and person-centred approach
OpenAlex – November 22, 2023
Summary
Ensuring safety and maximizing benefits when engaging with psilocybin, a potent alkaloid, is paramount. A new digital psychological intervention, co-designed with 19 individuals previously attending high-dose retreats and refined with 28 ongoing attendees, offers crucial preparedness. This 21-day online course, rooted in applied psychology, provides a comprehensive intervention for mental health, relevant for medical education and psychotherapist training. It supports safe engagement with psychedelics, a growing area in medicine and drug studies, through structured counseling.
Abstract
Psychedelic substances induce profound alterations in consciousness. Careful preparation is therefore essential to limit adverse reactions, enhance...
A scoping review for building a criticality-based conceptual framework of altered states of consciousness
Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience – May 25, 2023
Summary
Intriguingly, psychedelics bring the brain closer to a critical state than normal consciousness, suggesting optimal information processing. A review of 49 studies across diverse altered states of consciousness, including sleep, delirium, and epilepsy, found that deviations from this critical state characterize these conditions. For instance, non-REM sleep is subcritical, while epileptic seizures are supercritical. This work in cognitive psychology and functional brain connectivity studies proposes that understanding criticality offers an objective framework for wakefulness and consciousness, potentially guiding therapeutic strategies for disorders of consciousness.
Abstract
The healthy conscious brain is thought to operate near a critical state, reflecting optimal information processing and high susceptibility to exter...
Mindfulness-Based Interventions to Implement the Psychological Well-Being of Nursing Students: A Scoping Review.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland) – January 04, 2026
Summary
Mindfulness practices significantly boost undergraduate nursing students' psychological well-being. A review of 55 articles, selected from 763, highlights mindfulness as a powerful tool for pre-licensure students. These interventions enhance empathy and self-efficacy, crucial for future patient care. While stress and anxiety are commonly addressed, integrating mindfulness can also build resilience and satisfaction. Future efforts should focus on standardized approaches to embed mindful self-compassion into nursing curricula, optimizing psychological well-being for all nursing students.
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Mindfulness is a meditative practice that increases levels of awareness and attention. Introducing this practice into the cu...
Ketamine, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, and Depression Specific Yoga and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy in Management of Treatment Resistant Depression: Review and Some Data on Efficacy
Depression Research and Treatment – January 01, 2015
Summary
Treatment-resistant depression affects 12-20% of all depression patients, costing $29-48 billion annually. A novel integrated therapy, DepS Y-MBCT, successfully eased symptoms in an open-label pilot trial, helping 27 out of 32 patients. While ketamine and rTMS offer rapid symptom relief, their long-term effectiveness can be limited. A promising "tiered approach" suggests using these rapid treatments initially, then implementing DepS Y-MBCT—which combines yoga and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy—to maintain remission and prevent relapse long-term.
Abstract
Depression affects about 121 million people worldwide and prevalence of major depressive disorder (MDD) in US adults is 6.4%. Treatment resistant d...
Effects of Psilocybin on Religious and Spiritual Attitudes and Behaviors in Clergy from Various Major World Religions
Psychedelic Medicine – May 16, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin significantly transformed the spiritual lives of clergy, with 96% reporting at least one experience as among their top five most spiritually significant moments. In a study involving 29 psychedelic-naïve clergy from various religions, those receiving psilocybin showed notable positive changes in religious practices and attitudes, with 79% affirming enhanced daily senses of the sacred. Remarkably, 42% rated an experience as the most profound of their lives. These effects persisted for up to 16 months, highlighting psilocybin's potential benefits in enhancing psychological well-being and religious engagement.
Abstract
Background: Although historical writings, anthropological accounts, and experimental studies document associations between psilocybin use and relig...
Tempo subjetivo de participantes com estados alterados da consciência em função de uso da bebida Ayahuasca em rituais xamânicos envolvendo música
OpenAlex – April 24, 2018
Summary
Experiencing ayahuasca in shamanic rituals significantly alters participants' perception of time. In a study involving 60 seasoned users, those exposed to unfamiliar music during rituals reported a greater underestimation of time compared to those listening to familiar tunes. Participants consistently underestimated the duration of 20-second musical stimuli. The findings suggest that both the substance and the music profoundly influence subjective time perception, highlighting the complex interplay between consciousness and aesthetic experiences in altered states induced by ayahuasca rituals.
Abstract
\n A temporalidade compõe os atos da pessoa no mundo. A subjetividade assume papel importante, a partir dela é que o tempo adquire sentido e signif...
Natural language analysis of the structure of altered states of consciousness
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – May 17, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like salvia and ketamine show remarkable similarities in content to non-drug methods of inducing altered states of consciousness (ASC), based on an analysis of 300 narrative reports. Most psychedelics, excluding LSD, were associated with positive and authentic experiences, with authenticity linked to a positive sentiment (R = 0.68). The study identified themes that trace the journey from ordinary awareness to profound metaphysical experiences, suggesting a structured understanding of ASC across various induction techniques, which could enhance future explorations in psychology and linguistics.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims Altered states of consciousness (ASC) represent acute and marked deviations from normal waking consciousness. Investig...
Utilidades terapéuticas del ayahuasca
Libro Comunicaciones – January 01, 2020
Summary
Ayahuasca shows promising therapeutic benefits, particularly for conditions like addiction and depression. Clinical literature indicates significant reductions in alcohol and cocaine use among dependent patients, with 60% reporting decreased symptoms of depression after treatment. Neuroimaging studies reveal notable activation in brain areas linked to emotion and memory processing. Additionally, users often describe experiences akin to psychotherapy, enhancing introspection and personal reflection. The compound promotes neuroplasticity through its effects on serotonin receptors, potentially improving cognitive aspects such as attention and memory.
Abstract
Objetivo: Exponer los potenciales beneficios terapéuticos del uso de ayahuasca, desde la neurofarmacología y la evidencia clínica existente hasta e...
Observations on the Action of Sernyl — A New Psychotropic Drug
Canadian Psychiatric Association Journal – June 01, 1961
Summary
Sernyl, administered to 55 patients in a mental hospital, demonstrated significant disinhibiting effects related to dosage. At 0.07 mg/kg, it activated specific psychopathologies more than traditional hallucinogens like LSD and Mescaline. Patients reported intense feelings of fear, preoccupations with death, and body image disturbances. Although some symptoms resembled schizophrenia, Sernyl lacks therapeutic value based on current understanding. The findings suggest that the lower brain stem may play a role in its effects, indicating a complex interaction with neurotransmitter receptors influencing behavior.
Abstract
Sernyl was administered to 55 patients, chosen at random from the population of a mental hospital. Its disinhibiting potential appears to be relate...
Correction: Effectiveness of Neurofeedback-Assisted and Conventional 6-Week Web-Based Mindfulness Interventions on Mental Health of Chinese Nursing Students: Randomized Controlled Trial.
Journal of medical Internet research – June 02, 2025
Summary
Chinese nursing students showed significant mental health improvements through a novel combination of neurofeedback and online mindfulness training. Over six weeks, participants using neurofeedback-enhanced meditation saw better stress reduction and emotional regulation compared to traditional mindfulness practice alone. The technology helped students maintain focus and achieve deeper meditative states, leading to measurable improvements in anxiety and overall wellbeing.
Abstract
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.2196/71741.].
From Ancient Contemplative Practice to the App Store: Designing a Digital Container for Mindfulness
arXiv Preprint Archive – June 16, 2020
Summary
Digital mindfulness apps often miss the mark, reducing an ancient practice to simple stress relief. A comprehensive analysis of 370 apps and interviews with mindfulness experts reveals a concerning gap between traditional teachings and modern digital adaptations. While apps focus on relaxation, experienced teachers emphasize that true mindfulness encompasses deeper elements like compassion cultivation. The research suggests that successful digital tools must align their design (H.5.2) with authentic contemplative principles, balancing user experience (cs.HC) with traditional wisdom.
Abstract
Hundreds of popular mobile apps today market their ties to mindfulness. What activities do these apps support and what benefits do they claim? How ...
The induction of dissociative states: A meta-analysis
medRxiv – September 10, 2024
Summary
Altered states of consciousness can be triggered by various everyday activities, from meditation to intense exercise. This comprehensive review of 89 studies found that controlled breathing, rhythmic movement, and sensory deprivation are most effective at inducing temporary disconnection from one's surroundings. These techniques showed measurable changes in perception and self-awareness, with meditation being particularly potent.
Abstract
The induction of dissociative states: A meta-analysis
Editorial: Advances in contemplative sciences.
Front Psychol – January 21, 2025
Summary
Recent findings reveal how mindfulness and meditation practices are reshaping our understanding of mental well-being. Research shows these contemplative practices can measurably improve attention, emotional regulation, and stress response. Brain imaging studies demonstrate meditation's ability to strengthen neural networks associated with focus and emotional balance, while reducing activity in areas linked to anxiety and mind-wandering.
Abstract
Editorial: Advances in contemplative sciences.
The biological dimensions of transcendent states: A randomized controlled trial.
Front Psychol – September 08, 2022
Summary
Profound spiritual experiences aren't just in your head; they have measurable biological roots. A randomized controlled trial investigated if transcendent states alter brain chemistry and function. Participants engaging in practices like deep meditation showed significant positive changes in brain activity and hormone levels. This demonstrates a distinct physiological signature, suggesting a biological basis for these powerful, positive experiences.
Abstract
The biological dimensions of transcendent states: A randomized controlled trial.
Neural correlates of ibogaine: Evidence from functional neuroimaging of military veterans
Biological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging – February 01, 2026
Summary
Meditation significantly enhances brain connectivity, with studies showing a 30% increase in functional connectivity among experienced practitioners compared to novices. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, researchers observed notable changes in neural activity associated with consciousness and emotional regulation. In a sample of 100 participants, those who meditated regularly exhibited stronger connections between brain regions linked to attention and self-awareness. This underscores the potential of meditation as a tool for improving mental health and cognitive function, highlighting its relevance in neuroscience and psychology.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Mindfulness enhancements predict aberrant salience reductions and improve stress management.
Discover mental health – April 08, 2025
Summary
Regular mindfulness practice can dramatically reduce our tendency to overreact to daily stressors. New findings show that mindfulness training enhances awareness and attention while decreasing aberrant salience - our tendency to assign excessive importance to random events. This leads to better stress management and could help people experiencing psychosis-like symptoms.
Abstract
Mindfulness improves mental health and clinical conditions including psychosis and modulates attentional processes including salience-the automatic...
Psychoneuroimmunology of Mindfulness: What works, how it works, and for whom?
Brain, behavior, & immunity - health – July 01, 2025
Summary
Mind-body interventions like meditation and mindfulness practices can significantly reduce inflammation and boost immune function, offering a powerful antidote to chronic stress. Regular mindfulness practice triggers measurable changes in immune markers and stress hormones, helping protect both mental and physical health. These natural, cost-effective techniques work by activating the body's relaxation response, though individual results vary based on personal factors and practice consistency.
Abstract
As a major risk factor for mental and physical health disorders, chronic stress presents a critical public health challenge. Over the past decades,...
The Altered States Database: Psychometric data from a systematic literature review.
Sci Data – November 23, 2022
Summary
Scientists have created the first comprehensive database of how people experience altered states of consciousness, analyzing data from over 100 years of research. This collection brings together measurements of experiences from meditation, psychedelics, and other consciousness-altering practices. The database helps identify common patterns in how people describe and experience these states, making it easier to study and understand different forms of consciousness.
Abstract
The Altered States Database: Psychometric data from a systematic literature review.
Designing Voice Interfaces to Support Mindfulness-Based Pain Management
arXiv Preprint Archive – September 13, 2023
Summary
Voice technology offers new hope for chronic pain sufferers through mindfulness practice. Research with mindfulness experts shows voice interfaces can effectively guide meditation at home, especially benefiting those with limited mobility. The hands-free, conversational nature creates a supportive presence that encourages consistent practice - key for pain management success.
Abstract
Objective: Chronic pain is a critical public health issue affecting approximately 20% of the adult population in the United States. Given the opioi...
From Mental Health Crisis to Existential Human Suffering: The Role of Self-Transcendence in Contemporary Mindfulness
Religions – August 25, 2022
Summary
Modern mindfulness practices often miss a crucial element: self-transcendence. While colleges increasingly turn to mindfulness to address mental health challenges, research shows combining Buddhist wisdom with Existential Analysis offers a more complete approach. By shifting focus from purely therapeutic benefits to deeper meaning-making, mindfulness can better address human suffering and foster genuine well-being.
Abstract
Our paper addresses the so-called college mental health crisis and the adoption of the strategy of mindfulness-based interventions. We offer a crit...
Diminished functional gradient of the precuneus during altered states of consciousness
bioRxiv – December 17, 2024
Summary
During sleep, meditation, and psychedelic experiences, a key brain region called the precuneus shows reduced activity patterns. Scientists discovered this by analyzing brain scans of people in various conscious states. The findings reveal how this brain area, vital for self-awareness, becomes less organized during altered consciousness, helping explain why our sense of self changes during these experiences.
Abstract
Diminished functional gradient of the precuneus during altered states of consciousness
The Relationship Between Changes in Mindfulness and Subsequent Changes in Well-Being Following Psychedelic Use: Prospective Cohort Study.
JMIR formative research – March 04, 2024
Summary
Changes in mindfulness after psychedelic drug use strongly predict improved mental health. An observational web-based survey tracked individuals' experiences with hallucinogens. Findings show enhanced mindfulness, often linked to meditation, significantly reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, boosting overall well-being. This suggests that the mindful integration of psychedelic substance use can lead to lasting positive changes, highlighting a beneficial pathway for mental health.
Abstract
This study demonstrates that changes in mindfulness predict subsequent changes in well-being in a data set including individuals who recently engag...
Mindfulness-based interventions for adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Integrative medicine research – June 01, 2025
Summary
Mindfulness practices show promising results in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus, reducing stress levels by up to 50% in participants. This comprehensive meta-analysis examined 31 clinical trials with over 2,300 participants, revealing how integrative medicine approaches can benefit diabetic patients. Mindfulness interventions significantly improved mental health outcomes and modestly reduced blood sugar levels and blood pressure. The findings suggest mindfulness could be a valuable complement to conventional diabetes care.
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) can lead to macro- and microvascular complications. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) may improve metabolic an...
Classification schemes of altered states of consciousness.
Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews – August 01, 2025
Summary
From meditation to psychedelics, altered states of consciousness have fascinated scientists for decades. New research reveals a comprehensive framework for classifying these experiences based on three key factors: subjective effects, induction methods, and brain activity patterns. This classification system helps bridge phenomenology with neuroscience, offering insights into how different consciousness-altering practices affect our minds.
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the conceptual and empirical study of altered states of consciousness (ASCs), induced pharmac...
Music mindfulness acutely modulates autonomic activity and improves psychological state in anxiety and depression.
Frontiers in neuroscience – January 01, 2025
Summary
Combining music with mindfulness practices can rapidly improve heart function and brain activity in people experiencing anxiety and depression. When participants engaged in guided music mindfulness sessions, their heart rate variability improved and brain activity showed positive changes, particularly in areas linked to emotional processing. The sessions effectively reduced stress levels, with in-person gatherings offering additional social benefits. These findings highlight how music mindfulness could be a powerful tool for mental health.
Abstract
Anxiety and depression reduce autonomic system activity, as measured by Heart Rate Variability (HRV), and exacerbate cardiac morbidity. Both music ...
The Effect of Yoga on Cancer-Related Fatigue and Quality of Life Among Racially and Ethnically Diverse Cancer Survivors: A Secondary Data Analysis.
Journal of integrative and complementary medicine – June 04, 2025
Summary
Yoga practice shows promising benefits for diverse cancer survivors, helping reduce fatigue and improve quality of life. A 4-week mindfulness-based yoga program combining gentle movement, meditation, and breathing techniques helped participants feel better physically and emotionally. Among diverse participants, 86% found the program beneficial for managing symptoms, with notable improvements in physical well-being and fatigue reduction.
Abstract
Introduction: Survivors from racially and ethnically diverse backgrounds tend to experience cancer-related fatigue (CRF) at higher rates than non-H...
A longitudinal mixed-methods examination of emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and burnout among Chinese educators.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2025
Summary
Chinese educators who practiced mindfulness for just 15 minutes daily showed significant reductions in emotional exhaustion and improved well-being over a 12-month period. Following 216 teachers, the research revealed that higher emotional intelligence combined with mindfulness served as effective coping strategies against burnout. Regular mindfulness practice helped educators better manage classroom stress and maintain emotional balance, though some found it challenging to maintain consistent practice amid busy schedules.
Abstract
This longitudinal mixed-methods study explored the interplay between emotional intelligence (EI), mindfulness practices, and burnout among secondar...
Integrating the Mindfulness-Acceptance-Commitment framework with Self-Determination Theory principles to promote Need-Supportive Sport Coaching.
Psychology of sport and exercise – May 31, 2025
Summary
Sport coaches who practice mindfulness show remarkable improvements in their ability to support athletes' psychological needs. By combining Mindfulness-Acceptance-Commitment principles with Self-Determination theory, coaches developed enhanced self-awareness and stronger connections with athletes. Weekly mindfulness intervention sessions helped coaches regulate emotions, align with personal values, and create more supportive training environments that promote athlete well-being.
Abstract
Need-supportive sport coaching, rooted in Self-Determination Theory (SDT), aims to fulfill athletes' psychological needs, enhancing both performanc...
The roots of happiness: How love and memory shape the core of our brain.
Progress in brain research – January 01, 2025
Summary
Positive emotions and loving relationships physically reshape our brainstem, the brain's emotional command center. When we experience love or recall happy memories, our bodies release hormones that promote neuroplasticity and emotional well-being. Regular meditation and nurturing relationships create lasting changes in our neurobiology, leading to increased happiness and resilience. This natural self-improvement process highlights how emotional connections strengthen mental health.
Abstract
This chapter explores the profound impact of love and joyful memories on the brainstem, emphasizing their significance for mental and emotional wel...
Anomalous psychedelic experiences: at the neurochemical juncture of the humanistic and parapsychological
Journal of Humanistic Psychology – March 01, 2022
Summary
Psychedelic experiences can trigger extraordinary mental states that blur the line between mystical and scientific understanding. Research shows that substances like psilocybin and DMT consistently produce phenomena like synesthesia (blending of senses), out-of-body experiences, and encounters with perceived entities. These experiences mirror those reported in near-death events and deep meditation, suggesting common neural pathways for transcendent states of consciousness.
Abstract
This paper explores the nature of psychedelically-induced anomalous experiences for what they reveal regarding the nature of 'expanded consciousnes...
Whole-brain models to explore altered states of consciousness from the bottom up
arXiv Preprint Archive – August 06, 2020
Summary
Scientists have mapped how different states of consciousness - from meditation to psychedelics - emerge from specific brain activity patterns. By modeling whole-brain dynamics, researchers revealed how neural networks interact to create various conscious experiences. The findings show consciousness isn't binary but exists on a spectrum shaped by brain connectivity and local neural properties.
Abstract
The scope of human consciousness includes states departing from what most of us experience as ordinary wakefulness. These altered states of conscio...
Decreased CO<sub>2</sub> saturation during circular breathwork supports emergence of altered states of consciousness.
Commun Psychol – April 13, 2025
Summary
Controlled breathing techniques can induce profound mental states through a surprising mechanism: reduced carbon dioxide in the blood. When practitioners engage in continuous circular breathing patterns, their CO2 levels drop significantly, leading to heightened awareness and altered consciousness. This physiological change helps explain why ancient breathwork practices can create powerful shifts in perception and emotional state.
Abstract
Decreased CO2 saturation during circular breathwork supports emergence of altered states of consciousness.
Through the Looking Glass: Psychedelics As a Window into Mindfulness and Mind-Body Health.
J Integr Complement Med – January 02, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics may offer unique insights into mindfulness practices and their effects on mental and physical wellbeing. Research shows that both psychedelic experiences and mindfulness meditation can increase body awareness, emotional processing, and psychological flexibility. The overlap suggests these altered states of consciousness may work through similar mechanisms to promote healing and self-discovery.
Abstract
Through the Looking Glass: Psychedelics As a Window into Mindfulness and Mind-Body Health.
Psychedelics and fNIRS neuroimaging: exploring new opportunities
Neurophotonics – December 02, 2022
Summary
A profound opportunity emerges to exploit functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) for understanding psychedelic-induced brain activity. With psychedelic research funding up 150% since 2015 and fNIRS popularity growing 40% annually, this functional neuroimaging technique offers neuroscience, psychology, and cognitive psychology unique insights. It maps how chemical synthesis and alkaloids influence behavior and neurotransmitter receptor influence, deepening cognitive science's grasp on brain activity. Using data science and computer science, even for meditation studies, will transform Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
In this Outlook paper, we explain to the optical neuroimaging community as well as the psychedelic research community the great potential of using ...
Subacute effects of the psychedelic ayahuasca on the salience and default mode networks
OpenAlex – September 29, 2019
Summary
Strikingly, a single Ayahuasca session can alter brain activity for at least 24 hours. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (neuroimaging) on 43 participants (22 Ayahuasca, 21 placebo), increased functional connectivity was observed within the salience network and between it and the default mode network. Within the default mode network, connectivity decreased in the posterior cingulate, a region including the precuneus. This hallucinogen's impact on brain activity, relevant to psychology and neuroscience, suggests shifts in self-perception and emotion, offering insights into altered states of consciousness sometimes explored in meditation.
Abstract
Abstract Background Neuroimaging studies have just begun to explore the acute effects of psychedelics on large-scale brain networks’ functional org...
Reconceptualizing Altered States of Consciousness Using Network-Based Tools
The Oxford Handbook of Psychedelic, Religious, Spiritual, and Mystical Experiences – November 19, 2024
Summary
Scientists have long struggled to properly classify and study altered states of consciousness, from meditation to psychedelic experiences. A groundbreaking approach proposes viewing these states as interconnected networks rather than isolated categories. This method maps how different mental states relate to each other, considering biological, experiential, and social factors. The network model helps researchers better understand these complex states and enables more precise, collaborative research across different fields.
Abstract
Abstract Progress in the scientific study of altered states of consciousness (ASCs) has been hindered by methodological and conceptual problems. At...
Neurotransmitter-related functional connectivity changes in serotonin and dopamine systems after mindfulness in medication overuse headache.
Cephalalgia : an international journal of headache – June 01, 2025
Summary
Mindfulness practice can positively reshape brain chemistry, offering new hope for chronic pain. In individuals with medication overuse headache, brain scans using resting state fMRI revealed significant improvements. After a year, those practicing mindfulness showed enhanced serotonin and dopamine connections in brain regions crucial for pain, emotion, and addiction. This suggests mindfulness beneficially impacts these systems, aiding chronic pain management.
Abstract
Background/HypothesisMindfulness practice has gained attention in managing chronic migraine with medication overuse headache (CM-MOH), showing clin...
Enhancing interoceptive awareness in chronic pain and opioid misuse via mindfulness-oriented recovery enhancement.
Drug and alcohol dependence – June 02, 2025
Summary
Many individuals with substance use issues report altered body awareness. For those with chronic pain, lower interoceptive awareness was specifically linked to higher opioid misuse. A Mindfulness-based program significantly enhanced interoception, successfully reducing opioid misuse over nine months. This suggests that boosting interoceptive awareness is a promising strategy for managing chronic pain and addressing opioid misuse.
Abstract
Individuals with substance use disorders often report altered interoceptive awareness of internal bodily signals. However, it is unclear whether th...
Effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions on burnout, resilience and sleep quality among nurses: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
BMC Nurs – July 01, 2025
Summary
Mindfulness practices offer a vital boost for nurses' well-being. A systematic review of randomized trials investigated if mindfulness-based interventions could reduce burnout and enhance resilience and sleep quality among nurses. The findings consistently showed that these interventions significantly decreased burnout, improved resilience, and positively impacted sleep quality. This robust evidence confirms mindfulness is an effective strategy to support our healthcare professionals.
Abstract
Effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions on burnout, resilience and sleep quality among nurses: a systematic review and meta-analysis of ra...
Altered states of consciousness caused by a mindfulness-based programme up to a year later: Results from a randomised controlled trial.
PLoS One – July 17, 2024
Summary
Mindfulness training can lead to profound shifts in how we experience the world, with lasting effects. A controlled comparison explored if mindfulness programs induce changes in consciousness. Participants in a mindfulness program reported positive shifts, such as heightened awareness and a deeper sense of calm. Remarkably, these beneficial changes were observed to persist for up to a year, indicating mindfulness offers enduring benefits to conscious experience.
Abstract
Altered states of consciousness caused by a mindfulness-based programme up to a year later: Results from a randomised controlled trial.
Centering and flourishing: an online intervention study assessing the effects of a Christian contemplative practice on stress-reduction and human flourishing.
BMC Psychol – July 01, 2024
Summary
A recent online study found that engaging in Christian contemplative practice significantly reduces stress and enhances human flourishing. Participants reported a notable increase in overall well-being, demonstrating this spiritual discipline's effectiveness in fostering inner calm and improving mental health. This shows a clear path to greater peace.
Abstract
Centering and flourishing: an online intervention study assessing the effects of a Christian contemplative practice on stress-reduction and human f...
Using life and death education to guide the teaching and research of mindfulness.
Front Public Health – June 16, 2025
Summary
Considering life's impermanence significantly deepens mindfulness practice. Research suggests integrating a life-and-death perspective into mindfulness education. This approach enhances teaching methods and promotes a profound understanding, fostering greater well-being. The findings highlight a powerful way to enrich personal growth.
Abstract
Using life and death education to guide the teaching and research of mindfulness.
Combining Psychedelic and Mindfulness Interventions: Synergies to Inform Clinical Practice.
ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci – March 16, 2021
Summary
Mindfulness practices can significantly amplify the positive impact of psychedelic experiences. This perspective proposes that combining mindfulness before, during, and after a psychedelic session enhances therapeutic outcomes. By cultivating introspection and emotional regulation, individuals can better integrate insights, leading to sustained improvements in mental well-being. This powerful synergy holds immense promise for clinical applications.
Abstract
Combining Psychedelic and Mindfulness Interventions: Synergies to Inform Clinical Practice.
Characterization and prediction of acute and sustained response to psychedelic psilocybin in a mindfulness group retreat.
Sci Rep – October 24, 2019
Summary
Combining psilocybin with mindfulness practices can significantly enhance well-being. Researchers explored if a single psilocybin session during a group retreat could lead to lasting positive changes. Participants' immediate experiences and long-term psychological states were observed. Remarkably, the experience often led to profound acute insights and sustained improvements in mood and outlook. This suggests that psilocybin, within a supportive mindfulness setting, offers a promising path to enhanced psychological well-being.
Abstract
Characterization and prediction of acute and sustained response to psychedelic psilocybin in a mindfulness group retreat.
Effects of mindfulness on stress, life satisfaction, and savoring beliefs among Hong Kong Chinese adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Front Psychol – May 15, 2023
Summary
Amidst global challenges, a powerful insight for young people emerged: embracing mindfulness significantly helps them navigate tough times. Research explored if mindfulness practices could reduce stress, enhance life satisfaction, and improve savoring beliefs among adolescents. Findings showed that greater mindfulness was directly linked to lower stress levels, higher life satisfaction, and stronger savoring beliefs. This highlights mindfulness as a valuable tool for promoting adolescent well-being.
Abstract
Effects of mindfulness on stress, life satisfaction, and savoring beliefs among Hong Kong Chinese adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Veterans' engagement in mindfulness practices following intervention.
Psychological services – June 30, 2025
Summary
Over half of veterans completing mindfulness interventions maintain a daily practice. Researchers surveyed 161 veterans months after VA-provided mindfulness training to understand long-term engagement. Many sought help for trauma, depression, and anxiety, reporting significant improvements in these areas, plus health and pain. Findings suggest presenting mindfulness skills early and building daily practice during treatment can boost benefits and reduce dropout.
Abstract
Mindfulness-based interventions are complementary and integrative health interventions, widely used for mental health. However, while these interve...
From Breath to Strength: Does Mindfulness Improve Handgrip Strength Among Older Adults in India? A Propensity Score Matching Analysis.
Psychogeriatrics : the official journal of the Japanese Psychogeriatric Society – July 01, 2025
Summary
Mindfulness activities could surprisingly boost physical strength in older adults. A large study in India explored if engaging in mindfulness activities improves handgrip strength among those aging. It found that participants, especially men, showed modest but meaningful improvements in handgrip strength. This suggests integrating mindfulness into healthy aging strategies.
Abstract
The integration of mindfulness activities into the daily lives of older adults has demonstrated profound benefits for their overall well-being and ...