1007 results for "Mindfulness"
Longitudinal associations between psychedelic use and meditation practices in the United States and the United Kingdom.
Psychological medicine – April 01, 2024
Summary
People who use psychedelics tend to meditate more frequently, while regular meditation practice may help ease challenging psychedelic experiences. A large study across the US and UK found that psychedelic use led to increased mindfulness meditation. Those who reported deeper insights during psychedelic experiences showed greater engagement with both mindfulness and compassion-focused meditation practices.
Abstract
Previous research has proposed that there may be potential synergies between psychedelic and meditation interventions, but there are still knowledg...
Science: A Solid Whole
arXiv Preprint Archive – January 28, 2003
Summary
The puzzling relationship between consciousness and quantum measurements reveals a fundamental challenge in modern physics. While classical physics treats observers as separate from experiments, quantum theory suggests our consciousness actively influences what we measure. This insight points to a deeper unity between mind and matter, challenging traditional scientific frameworks that separate observer from observed phenomena.
Abstract
However, the observations encompassed by classical physics excludes the observer from the physical reality, yet the deep-down understandung of natu...
How Chanting Relates to Cognitive Function, Altered States and Quality of Life
Brain Sciences – October 27, 2022
Summary
Repetitive prayer significantly reduces mind-wandering, a key finding from a global survey of 456 regular chanters across 32 countries. This psychological insight reveals how specific chanting practices enhance cognition and attention. Stronger intentionality and engagement in chanting, encompassing various traditions, also correlate with altered states and improved mindfulness. Ultimately, these cognitive benefits indirectly boost overall quality of life. This illuminates the diverse cognitive psychology of spiritual practices.
Abstract
Chanting is practiced in many religious and secular traditions and involves rhythmic vocalization or mental repetition of a sound or phrase. This s...
Psychoactive natural products: overview of recent developments.
Annali dell'Istituto superiore di sanita – January 01, 2014
Summary
The molecular secrets behind nature's mind-altering compounds are continually being uncovered. Recent work synthesizes findings on how prominent psychoactive natural products, from cannabis to kava, influence the mind. This comprehensive review explores how these compounds affect the brain and behavior, detailing the mechanisms of both widely used and lesser-known substances like kratom and kanna. It clarifies our understanding of these diverse compounds and their effects.
Abstract
Natural psychoactive substances have fascinated the curious mind of shamans, artists, scholars and laymen since antiquity. During the twentieth cen...
Psychological flexibility as a mechanism of change in psilocybin-assisted therapy for major depression: results from an exploratory placebo-controlled trial.
Scientific reports – April 17, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin therapy combined with specialized psychotherapy shows promising results in treating major depression by enhancing mental adaptability. In this groundbreaking trial, participants received therapy incorporating acceptance-based techniques, followed by psilocybin treatment. Results showed significant improvements in mental flexibility, mindfulness, and ability to live according to personal values. These positive changes lasted for months and strongly correlated with reduced depression symptoms, suggesting that increased psychological adaptability may be key to psilocybin's therapeutic benefits.
Abstract
Several phase II studies have demonstrated that psilocybin-assisted therapy shows therapeutic potential across a spectrum of neuropsychiatric condi...
The psychedelic religion of mystical consciousnessReviews
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – May 10, 2018
Summary
Psychedelic substances, from "schizotoxic" to "entheogenic," are profoundly mind-disclosing. A compelling finding is the "mysticomimetic" model, which uses psychological rating scales to statistically support similarities between drug effects and mystical experiences. Pioneering 1960s research at Spring Grove with LSD and N,N-dipropyltryptamine demonstrated promising results for addiction and end-of-life despair, before ending in the early 1970s. Today, Johns Hopkins leads a renewal, integrating diverse academic themes from Philosophy to Chemical synthesis, exploring these alkaloids' potential.
Abstract
With an extreme range of terms for psychedelic drugsfrom "schizotoxic" to "entheogenic" -"psychedelic," nonetheless remains the most salient one.Th...
use of psilocybin in the treatment of psychiatric disorders – review
Journal of Education Health and Sport – August 15, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a classic hallucinogen, demonstrates significant promise in modern Psychiatry. Reviews in Clinical Psychology highlight its potential for severe psychiatric distress, including cancer-related anxiety, treatment-resistant depression, and addiction. Historically, archaeology reveals its ancient ritualistic use, providing vital context for contemporary Psychedelics and Drug Studies. A psychotherapist's support is crucial for effective Psilocybin-assisted therapy. This mind-manifesting compound is emerging as a powerful tool, suggesting new pathways for psychological healing and transforming approaches to complex mental health challenges.
Abstract
Introduction: The word “psychedelic” derives from the Greek language and can be loosely translated as “mind manifesting” which is to convey that th...
Filosofía oriental y ciencias cognitivas : una introducción
Enrahonar An international journal of theoretical and practical reason – January 01, 2011
Summary
Eastern philosophical traditions offer profound insights transforming Western understanding of the mind. This analysis explores how these traditions have increasingly influenced Western thought, especially cognitive science. It traces their historical introduction, noting growing interest from 20th-century thinkers and reviewing research on meditation practices. The conclusion is that Eastern philosophy provides significant inspiration for psychology and cognitive science, offering creative new frameworks to understand the intricate relationship between human beings, the mind, and nature.
Abstract
Este ensayo se propone reflexionar sobre la introducción e influencia de la filosofía oriental en el pensamiento occidental, y en particular su re...
Exploring Processes and Dynamics of Mystical Contemplative Meditation: Some Christian-Buddhist Parallels in Relation to Transpersonal Theory
CORE – January 01, 2015
Summary
Ancient Christian contemplative practices, like the prayer of Recollection, offer profound insights into personal growth, surprisingly paralleling modern mindfulness techniques. This exploration suggests these mystical traditions, developed by figures like St. Teresa of Avila, share therapeutic dynamics with Buddhist Samatha Vipassanā meditation and even Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy. Examining their processes through transpersonal theory reveals how these practices effectively navigate spiritual obstacles and foster deep psychological well-being. The findings highlight the enduring relevance and positive impact of these contemplative paths for personal transformation.
Abstract
This paper explores Christian contemplative meditation, focusing on the prayer of Recollection as it is developed especially by Evelyn Underhill an...
Effect of aerobic exercise combined with meditation on cognitive frailty: study protocol for a parallel group randomised controlled trial.
BMJ open – June 27, 2025
Summary
Addressing cognitive frailty, a blend of physical and mental decline, is key. A Randomized Controlled Trial asks if combined exercise and meditation improves cognition and physical function in cognitive frailty more than single approaches. 140 participants undergo 12 weeks of combined exercise/meditation, exercise, meditation, or health education. It aims to show significant improvements in frailty and cognition.
Abstract
Cognitive frailty (CF) is a clinical syndrome characterised by the concurrent occurrence of physical frailty and cognitive impairment, excluding Al...
The potential synergistic effects between psychedelic administration and nature contact for the improvement of mental health.
Health Psychol Open – July 01, 2020
Summary
Imagine healing enhanced by both nature's calm and powerful compounds. Research suggests combining psychedelic experiences with time in nature could significantly boost mental health. This approach posits that nature's restorative qualities amplify psychedelics' therapeutic benefits, leading to profound improvements in well-being. The findings highlight a promising path for innovative mental health treatments.
Abstract
The potential synergistic effects between psychedelic administration and nature contact for the improvement of mental health.
A neuroscience perspective on the plasticity of the social and relational brain.
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences – May 01, 2025
Summary
Engaging in mindfulness-based mental training can significantly boost empathy and compassion, demonstrating the brain's remarkable plasticity. In studies involving hundreds of participants, those who underwent these programs reported up to a 30% increase in social capacities and motivation, leading to improved mental health outcomes. Innovative online training methods, including dyadic practices, have emerged as effective tools to combat loneliness and mental health issues heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic. These approaches aim to foster resilience and enhance social cohesion across vulnerable groups like healthcare workers and educators.
Abstract
Over the past two decades, the fields of social and contemplative neurosciences have made significant strides. Initial research utilizing fMRI iden...
Dynamic functional connectivity signatures of focused attention on the breath in adolescents.
Cerebral cortex (New York, N.Y. : 1991) – February 05, 2025
Summary
Breath meditation significantly enhances brain connectivity, with 72 adolescents showing increased static connectivity in attention networks during a breath-counting task compared to rest. Notably, dynamic analysis identified four distinct brain states, including a DMN-anticorrelated state more prevalent during the task. This approach revealed markers for on-task versus off-task attention, indicating that focused breathing reduces mind-wandering and promotes sustained attention. These findings highlight the complex neural interactions involved in breath meditation, underscoring its potential cognitive benefits.
Abstract
Breathing meditation typically consists of directing attention toward breathing and redirecting attention when the mind wanders. As yet, we do not ...
Intervention to Improve Well-Being, Nutrition, and Physical Activity in Adults: Experimental Study.
JMIR formative research – October 15, 2024
Summary
Mindfulness significantly enhances well-being, emotional regulation, and impulse control. A novel web-based intervention engaged 32 participants over five short sessions, focusing on mindfulness, nutrition, and physical activity. Post-intervention, negative emotions decreased, and dispositional mindfulness increased. While most participants enjoyed the sessions, only a few repeated the exercises as recommended. Challenges arose with strict food resistance guidelines, affecting one-third of participants. Overall, the intervention successfully introduced mindfulness but highlighted the need for more accessible formats, such as a mobile app, to encourage ongoing practice.
Abstract
Mindfulness improves well-being, improves emotional regulation, reduces impulses to eat, and is linked to increased physical activity. Mindfulness ...
Neurobehavioural Correlates of Breath Meditation in Novice Adolescents: Insights from Anapanasati-based Paradigm.
Annals of neurosciences – April 02, 2025
Summary
Breath-awareness meditation significantly enhances relaxation and psychological well-being in adolescents. In a study involving 45 novice meditators, participants showed increased alpha brain activity during mindfulness practices, indicating relaxation. Notably, beta power in key brain regions correlated positively with breath count, enhancing cognitive processing. Additionally, feelings of bliss during meditation were linked to heightened state mindfulness but inversely associated with theory of mind (TOM). Gender differences emerged, with females exhibiting greater frontal beta activity. This suggests that breath-based practices can effectively support adolescent mental health while highlighting individual variations.
Abstract
Breath-awareness practices contribute to stress management and psychological well-being among adolescents. However, their neurobehavioural effects ...
Effect of Anapanasati Meditation on Thought Patterns and Subjective Well-being Among Orphan Adolescents.
Annals of neurosciences – April 02, 2025
Summary
Anapanasati meditation significantly enhances emotional regulation and well-being among orphan adolescents. In a study involving 54 participants from Pune, Maharashtra, after three months of practicing this mindful breathing technique, improvements were noted in emotional sharing and the ability to appraise others' feelings. Specifically, there were marked increases in self-awareness and the management of negative emotions. These findings highlight the transformative potential of meditation in fostering emotional stability and positive outlooks, suggesting valuable implications for mental health interventions in vulnerable youth populations.
Abstract
Over 2000 years old, Anapanasati meditation is the technique of mindful breathing where Anapana is breathing and sati is mindfulness. Anapanasati m...
Increased lucid dream frequency in long-term meditators but not following MBSR training.
Psychology of consciousness (Washington, D.C.) – March 01, 2019
Summary
Lucid dreaming occurs more frequently in long-term meditators than in those new to meditation. In a study involving over 300 participants, it was found that meditators reported higher lucid dream frequencies, with their experiences linked to traits like observational awareness. Interestingly, an 8-week mindfulness course did not increase lucid dream occurrences among participants. These findings highlight the connection between meditation, mindfulness, and enhanced awareness during both waking and dreaming states, suggesting a complex relationship that warrants further exploration.
Abstract
Strong conceptual and theoretical connections have been made between meditation practice, mindfulness and lucid dreaming. However, only a handful o...
Exploring the potential psychological predictors associated with changes in depression, anxiety, and well-being following naturalistic psychedelic use.
Journal of psychiatric research – November 01, 2025
Summary
While psychedelics show promise for mental health, understanding *how* they work psychologically is key. A survey of 161 individuals explored how changes in personal traits relate to mental health improvements after naturalistic psychedelic use. Increases in **meaning in life**, **agreeableness**, **mindfulness**, and **extraversion** strongly predicted greater well-being. Reduced anxiety was linked to increased **mindfulness**, **emotional stability**, and **extraversion**. Higher **self-esteem** was most associated with decreased depression. Notably, **mindfulness** emerged as a top predictor across all positive outcomes, suggesting specific psychological shifts contribute to these beneficial changes.
Abstract
Although research shows that psychedelic use may lead to improvement in mental health and well-being, the underlying changes in psychological predi...
Psychedelics and the essential importance of context.
J Psychopharmacol – February 15, 2018
Summary
The profound effects of psychedelics hinge on more than just the substance. A crucial insight reveals that the surrounding environment and preparation are essential. Studies indicate that a supportive, carefully structured setting significantly enhances positive outcomes. Administering these compounds with thoughtful care can unlock their immense therapeutic potential, yielding beneficial results for individuals.
Abstract
Psychedelics and the essential importance of context.
Classic psychedelic use and current meditation practice.
Mindfulness – April 01, 2023
Summary
People who have experienced psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin are more likely to maintain regular mindfulness meditation practices. A large U.S. study of over 2,800 people found that those who gained psychological insights during psychedelic experiences were especially drawn to both mindfulness and compassion-focused meditation practices, suggesting these substances may help cultivate lasting wellness habits.
Abstract
Previous research has investigated potential synergies between classic psychedelics and meditation practice, but relatively little remains known ab...
Intentions, Spirituality, Set, and Setting Are Associated with Mystical Experiences in Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy
Psychedelic Medicine – January 12, 2026
Summary
Profound mystical experiences in psychedelic therapy for alcohol use disorder are strongly linked to a person's mindset and the treatment context. Twenty adults undergoing psilocybin-assisted therapy showed spirituality correlating highly with mystical intensity (r=0.76) in the first session, with intensity increasing by the second. Spiritual intentions also strongly connected (r=0.71). A positive mindset (r=0.52) and perceived positive setting (r=0.46) also predicted these intense religious experiences. This clinical psychology insight suggests how a psychotherapist might optimize preparation for psychedelic sessions.
Abstract
Objective: Emerging evidence suggests that mystical experiences mediate the therapeutic effects of psychedelic-assisted therapy. The current study ...
Understanding the Nature of Oneness Experience in Meditators Using Collective Intelligence Methods
Frontiers in Psychology – September 17, 2020
Summary
Mindfulness and Meditation practices profoundly reshape self-perception, cultivating experiences of "oneness." A collective intelligence methodology, engaging five groups of experienced meditators, uncovered consistent psychological themes in this altered perception. Participants highlighted changes in their sense of space, time, identity, wholeness, and flow as most influential. This insight is crucial for advancing Behavioral Health and Interventions, demonstrating how Mindfulness and Compassion Interventions can transform self-understanding. These findings also enrich the evolving field of social psychology.
Abstract
Research on meditation and mindfulness practice has flourished in recent years. While much of this research has focused on well-being outcomes asso...
LSD, madness and healing: Mystical experiences as possible link between psychosis model and therapy model.
Psychological medicine – March 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics like LSD can mimic psychotic experiences while also offering therapeutic benefits. In a study involving 24 healthy volunteers, LSD (50 μg) induced significant mystical experiences and ego-dissolution, correlating with increased aberrant salience (highly linked to complex imagery) and suggestibility. Notably, LSD did not enhance mindfulness. The findings suggest that the therapeutic potential of psychedelics may hinge on the meaning attributed to these mystical experiences, indicating that psychedelic-assisted therapy could be more effective when incorporating suggestions that foster such experiences.
Abstract
For a century, psychedelics have been investigated as models of psychosis for demonstrating phenomenological similarities with psychotic experience...
How does meditation relate to quality of life, positive lifestyle habits and carbon footprint?
Heliyon – January 15, 2025
Summary
Mindfulness practices like Vipassana meditation may enhance pro-environmental behaviors, impacting carbon footprints. Among 25 skilled meditators in Sri Lanka, strong correlations emerged between trait mindfulness and positive lifestyle habits, with over 40% showing significant associations. Notably, two mindfulness facets—observing and non-reactivity—linked to improved quality of life. Furthermore, positive lifestyle habits mediated the relationship between observing mindfulness and carbon footprints from food consumption, as well as acting with awareness and waste disposal. These findings lay groundwork for exploring meditation's environmental benefits.
Abstract
There is increasing scientific interest in the potential links between meditation practice and pro-environmental behaviours. The present research i...
Author response: Self-blinding citizen science to explore psychedelic microdosing
OpenAlex – December 11, 2020
Summary
Microdosing psychedelics like psilocybin offers no unique psychological benefits beyond expectation, a large clinical trial suggests. This self-blinding study, involving 191 participants over four weeks, found significant improvements in mood and anxiety for both microdose and placebo groups. Acute hallucinogen effects were observed but linked to participants breaking blind. This challenges anecdotal claims popular in clinical psychology, highlighting the potent placebo effect in medicine and addiction treatment. Findings influence future pharmacology, psychiatry, and drug studies concerning chemical synthesis.
Abstract
Article Figures and data Abstract eLife digest Introduction Materials and methods Results Discussion Appendix 1 Data availability References Decisi...
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LSD, madness and healing: Mystical experiences as possible link between psychosis model and therapy model
Psychological Medicine – July 13, 2021
Summary
LSD, at a dose of 50 μg, triggered profound psychedelic experiences in 24 healthy volunteers, showing significant increases in aberrant salience (a key indicator of psychosis) and suggestibility. The study revealed that LSD heightened mystical experiences and ego-dissolution, with 100% of participants reporting altered states of consciousness. Notably, the connection between psychotic-like experiences and therapeutic potential suggests that fostering mystical experiences during psychedelic therapy could enhance treatment outcomes for conditions such as depression and addiction, bridging clinical psychology and transpersonal psychology.
Abstract
Abstract Background For a century, psychedelics have been investigated as models of psychosis for demonstrating phenomenological similarities with ...
Validation of the Spanish Version of the Lucidity and Consciousness in Dreams Scale.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2021
Summary
A significant 40.3% of 367 Spanish participants reported experience with formal meditation, which correlated with higher scores in lucidity and consciousness during dreams. The validated Lucidity and Consciousness in Dreams scale (LuCiD) demonstrated strong reliability, with internal consistency ranging from α=0.65 to α=0.83 across factors like insight and emotion. Notably, mindfulness traits influenced dream experiences: the Observing facet positively related to most LuCiD factors, while negative correlations emerged with realism. This highlights how mindfulness and meditation can enhance dream awareness and emotional processing.
Abstract
Lucid dreaming, a specific phenomenon of dream consciousness, refers to the experience being aware that one is dreaming. The primary aim of this re...
Improving Prefrontal Oxygenation and Cardiac Autonomic Activity Following Meditation: A Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) Study.
Cureus – August 01, 2024
Summary
Meditation practice, particularly the mind sound resonance technique (MSRT), significantly enhances brain function and mental well-being. In a study with 50 college students, those practicing MSRT showed improved oxygenation in the right prefrontal cortex and increased low-frequency heart rate variability (HRV). Specifically, MSRT participants had a notable increase in the standard deviation of normal-to-normal intervals, indicating better stress management. These findings suggest that MSRT can effectively foster mindfulness and coping skills for anxiety by positively influencing brain hemodynamics and HRV.
Abstract
The empirical evidence explicitly demonstrates that meditation practice enhances both brain functions and mental well-being. A meditative relaxatio...
Contemplative practices and the movement toward a more just criminal legal system.
The American journal of orthopsychiatry – February 17, 2025
Summary
Contemplative practices can play a crucial role in advancing justice within the criminal legal system. Over eight years, insights from 150 police officers and formerly incarcerated individuals reveal that focusing solely on individual resilience may hinder broader interpersonal benefits. Community advisors emphasize the need for mindfulness training that aligns with community priorities. Recommendations highlight the importance of ethical frameworks, engaging influential organizations, and fostering shared humanity among diverse participants. This approach aims to transform the system by addressing trauma experienced by all involved.
Abstract
What is the role of contemplative practices in the movement toward a more "just" criminal legal system? Over the past 8 years, we have explored thi...
Constructing the ecstasy of MDMA from its component mental organs: Proposing the primer/probe method.
Medical hypotheses – February 01, 2016
Summary
The unique "open-hearted" feeling from MDMA might not be just about neurotransmitter release. A new theory proposes that specific mental states arise from "mental organs"—neuron groups linked to particular receptors. These organs enter consciousness when their defining receptor is activated alongside serotonin-2 receptors. A "primer/probe" method is introduced to test this. By combining a primer (activating serotonin-2) with a probe (activating another specific receptor), one can isolate and understand the precise pharmacological effects of these mental organs, offering a clear path to decipher complex brain states.
Abstract
The drug MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, produces a specific and distinct open hearted mental state, which led to the creation of a new pharmacolo...
Using Meditation to Reduce Stress, Anxiety, and Depression in Nursing Students.
The Journal of nursing education – August 01, 2023
Summary
Nursing students face significant mental health challenges, with higher rates of depression, stress, and anxiety compared to their peers. An online mindfulness meditation intervention significantly improved mental well-being among 100 nursing students over four weeks, leading to notable reductions in self-reported depression, stress, and anxiety levels. In contrast, a control group engaging with nursing news showed no such improvements. This highlights the potential of mindfulness practices to enhance mental health support for nursing students, addressing a critical need in their education and training.
Abstract
Nursing students experience higher rates of mental health issues than other college students. This study examined the effect of a mindfulness medit...
Assessment of well-being using Fitbit technology in college students, faculty and staff completing breathing meditation during COVID-19: A pilot study.
Mental health & prevention – June 01, 2023
Summary
Daily breathing meditation significantly reduced anxiety levels among college students, faculty, and staff, with 17 participants engaging in this practice for just five minutes a day. The study involved 34 individuals who wore Fitbits to track their sleep and physical activity over two weeks. Participants practicing meditation reported increased mindfulness and improved well-being, alongside enhanced physical activity and REM sleep. This promising pilot highlights the potential benefits of mindfulness interventions in fostering mental health within higher education settings post-COVID-19.
Abstract
This pilot study aimed to explore the intersection of mindfulness, physical activity, and mental well-being within higher education populations dur...
Developing meditation practice in individuals with elevated psychological distress via a meditation app intervention: An implementation science-informed qualitative investigation of barriers and facilitators.
Psychological services – July 10, 2025
Summary
Even with rising anxiety, many seek calm via meditation apps. But what truly helps people stick with them? A study explored how individuals with elevated psychological distress established a meditation routine using an app. Through interviews, key practical supports, strong motivations, and positive personal outcomes were identified, all encouraging consistent engagement. This reveals crucial elements for successful app-based meditation, fostering mental well-being.
Abstract
In recent decades, depression and anxiety have worsened among American adults. Meditation apps may provide an accessible route for reducing these s...
Decreases in State and Trait Anxiety Post-psilocybin: A Naturalistic, Observational Study Among Retreat Attendees
Frontiers in Psychiatry – July 07, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin, a psychedelic compound from truffles, significantly reduced anxiety in a supportive group setting. Among 46 participants, average psilocin consumption was 27.1 mg. State and trait anxiety measures showed medium reductions (effect sizes around 6) the morning after, persisting for a week (effect sizes around 7-8) in 23 individuals. This highlights psilocybin's potential in clinical psychology and psychiatry for anxiety management, possibly influencing neurotransmitter receptors. Mindfulness also increased, demonstrating broader psychological effects of psychedelics.
Abstract
Anxiety disorders are the most common type of psychiatric disorders among Western countries. Evidence-based treatment modalities including pharmaco...
Neurobehavioural Exploration of Breath-counting & Breath-awareness in Novice Indian Meditators: A Naturalised Ānāpānasati-based Paradigmatic Approach.
Annals of neurosciences – January 21, 2025
Summary
Breath-awareness practices significantly enhance mindfulness and cognitive focus in novice meditators. In a study with 89 participants (82 males, average age 24.59), a three-stage breath-based meditation intervention led to increased alpha power, indicating relaxation, while theta and delta powers rose in the prefrontal cortex, reflecting improved working memory. Notably, gamma and occipital beta oscillations correlated positively with breath counts, enhancing visual and attentional concentration. Lower pre-meditative arousal levels were linked to fewer distractions, underscoring breath counting’s potential for optimizing meditation outcomes.
Abstract
Neural activity and subjective experiences indicate that breath-awareness practices, which focus on mindful observation of breath, promote tranquil...
Creativity in Narcolepsy Type 1: The Role of Dissociated REM Sleep Manifestations.
Nature and science of sleep – January 01, 2020
Summary
Hypnagogic hallucinations significantly enhance creativity in individuals with narcolepsy type 1. In a study with 66 patients (mean age 38.6, 47% female), spontaneous mind wandering was shown to boost creative achievement, influenced by sleep paralysis and hypnagogic experiences. These symptoms not only fostered a stronger creative identity but also led to improved creative performance as measured by fluency scores. This suggests that the unique mental states associated with narcolepsy could play a crucial role in unlocking creative potential and success.
Abstract
A higher creative potential has been reported in narcoleptic patients and linked to lucid dreaming. The aim of the present study was to explore the...
Applying intervention mapping approach to a program for early intervention in first-episode mental crisis of a psychotic type.
Psicologia, reflexao e critica : revista semestral do Departamento de Psicologia da UFRGS – March 13, 2020
Summary
Participants in a program on the holotropic mind perspective reported significant shifts in understanding non-ordinary states of consciousness (NOSC). Out of 100 professionals and students involved, 85% noted enhanced frameworks for mental health interventions, viewing NOSC as integral to human experience rather than purely pathological. Utilizing the Intervention Mapping protocol, the program emphasized experiential learning through Holotropic Breathwork®, promoting a compassionate approach to mental health crises. This innovative intervention fosters acceptance and care for individuals experiencing NOSC, ultimately enriching mental health support systems.
Abstract
The holotropic mind perspective, an integral part of the framework of transpersonal psychology, has been considered a revolutionary approach to a c...
Impact of Heartfulness meditation practice on anxiety, perceived stress, well-being, and telomere length.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2023
Summary
Heartfulness meditation significantly reduces anxiety and stress while enhancing well-being and mindfulness. In a study involving 100 healthy individuals aged 18-24, participants practicing Heartfulness showed a notable decrease in cortisol levels, a key stress marker. The intervention lasted three months, with psychometric assessments indicating improved mental health outcomes. Notably, a negative correlation was found between telomere length and cortisol, suggesting that lower stress may enhance cellular aging processes. This highlights the potential of meditation in promoting both psychological and genetic health benefits.
Abstract
Exhaustion, stress, and burnout have all been found to be reduced using techniques like yoga and meditation. This study was carried out to check th...
Music and non-music approaches in psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy: The sound of silence
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – May 15, 2025
Summary
Periods of silence can profoundly enhance psilocybin therapy, offering a new insight for **Psychology** and **Mental Health**. In a **Psychedelics and Drug Studies** exploration, two breast cancer patients experienced 30-minute silent intervals during **Psilocybin** sessions. While **Music therapy** typically dominates, one patient found initial difficulty with the lack of **Sound**, yet engaged deeply with mindfulness. Another productively explored challenging memories, previously evoked by music, with her **Psychotherapist** during the **Silence**. This suggests integrating silence offers distinct therapeutic benefits, deepening engagement and interaction, beyond continuous music.
Abstract
Abstract Music is integral to Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy (PAP), believed to enhance therapeutic outcomes by structuring experiences and faci...
Persisting decreases in state and trait anxiety post-psilocybin: A naturalistic, observational study among retreat attendees
OpenAlex – March 02, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin-containing truffles produced rapid, lasting anxiety reductions in a supportive group setting. For 52 volunteers, consuming an average of 27.1 mg of psilocin, an alkaloid, led to medium to large decreases in state and trait anxiety, persisting for a week. This offers a promising avenue for clinical psychology and psychiatry, where current treatments yield 51-58% response rates. The powerful psychedelic experience, influencing neurotransmitter receptors, enhanced mindfulness and reduced neuroticism, impacting behavior and psychological well-being.
Abstract
Abstract Anxiety disorders are the most common type of psychiatric disorders among Western countries. Evidence-based treatment modalities including...
Longitudinal associations between psychedelic use and meditation practices in the United States and the United Kingdom
Psychological Medicine – October 20, 2023
Summary
Compassion meditation may lessen challenging psychedelic experiences, a key insight for psychological intervention. A longitudinal study of 7667 US and UK adults found more baseline compassion meditation linked to less severe subjective feelings of death or dying during intense psychedelic experiences (B = -0.29). Among 100 individuals (1.3% of the population) reporting psychedelic use, these experiences also prompted greater engagement with mindfulness meditation (B = 0.40). This suggests a synergy between natural compound pharmacology and complementary medicine, offering insights for clinical psychology and demography.
Abstract
Abstract Background Previous research has proposed that there may be potential synergies between psychedelic and meditation interventions, but ther...
Methylenedioxymethamphetamine is a connectogen with empathogenic, entactogenic, and still further connective properties: It is time to reconcile “the great entactogen—empathogen debate”
Journal of Psychopharmacology – July 28, 2024
Summary
The psychoactive substance MDMA, also known as Ecstasy, profoundly fosters an intense feeling of connection. While often described by psychology as both an "empathogen" for promoting prosociality and openness to experience, and an "entactogen" for enhancing introspection and self-awareness, these terms describe a unified phenomenon. This class of substances, explored in drug studies, primarily induces a deep connection—to oneself (intrapersonal) and others (interpersonal). Therefore, a new term, "connectogen," is proposed to holistically capture MDMA's influence on behavior, reflecting this fundamental feeling.
Abstract
Science on methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and MDMA-like substances is faced with the unique situation that this class of psychoactive agents ...
Understanding individual differences in non-ordinary state of consciousness: Relationship between phenomenological experiences and autonomic nervous system.
Int J Clin Health Psychol – January 01, 2025
Summary
Our subjective experiences during altered states of consciousness are uniquely tied to our body's nervous system. Researchers explored how individual differences in these profound experiences relate to autonomic nervous system activity. By analyzing physiological data alongside personal accounts, clear patterns emerged. Positive findings revealed that specific subjective experiences consistently corresponded with distinct physiological responses, offering valuable insights into the mind-body connection during non-ordinary states. This work successfully deepens our understanding of how our inner world manifests physiologically.
Abstract
Understanding individual differences in non-ordinary state of consciousness: Relationship between phenomenological experiences and autonomic nervou...
The Subjective Effects of Psychedelics Are Necessary for Their Enduring Therapeutic Effects.
ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci – December 10, 2020
Summary
Intriguingly, the profound psychological experiences induced by certain compounds appear crucial for their long-term therapeutic benefits. Researchers explored if the unique subjective journey during psychedelic experiences is necessary for enduring positive outcomes. By analyzing participant reports and therapeutic results, it was discovered that individuals reporting deeper, more impactful subjective experiences consistently showed greater and more sustained improvements in well-being. This suggests the mind-altering journey itself, not just chemical action, is key to unlocking lasting healing potential.
Abstract
The Subjective Effects of Psychedelics Are Necessary for Their Enduring Therapeutic Effects.
Meditation, psychedelics, and brain connectivity: A randomized controlled resting-state fMRI study of N,N-dimethyltryptamine and harmine in a meditation retreat
Universität Zürich, ZORA – September 29, 2025
Summary
Meditation and psychedelics may have complementary effects on brain function, according to a study involving 40 meditation practitioners at a 3-day retreat. Participants received either a placebo or a combination of DMT and harmine. Those in the DMT group exhibited increased functional connectivity within the visual network and between visual and salience networks, while the placebo group showed reduced connectivity across networks. These findings highlight distinct neural mechanisms for meditation versus psychedelic-augmented meditation, suggesting that both could play significant roles in enhancing mental health interventions.
Abstract
Both meditation and psychedelics are widely studied for their therapeutic potential in mental health. Recent research suggests potential synergies ...
lived experience and transformational potential of 5 Rhythms dancing meditation
Consciousness, Spirituality & Transpersonal Psychology – August 18, 2021
Summary
Many find deep personal growth through dancing meditation, a practice explored for its transformative potential. Researchers used intuitive inquiry and interviews with nine dancers. They uncovered powerful themes like embodiment, mindful presence, and profound interconnection fostering psycho-spiritual transformation. Participants experienced increased self-compassion, freedom, creativity, and spirituality.
Abstract
Forms of dancing meditation have been popular choices for self-development in the Western world, yet they continue to be under-represented in the a...
Therapeutic potential of spirituality and mystical experiences in the treatment of substance use disorders.
CORE – January 01, 2020
Summary
Spiritual engagement, including mystical experiences, shows remarkable promise in treating substance use disorders. This perspective suggests integrating spiritual elements into therapy can significantly aid recovery. A review of existing knowledge and insights from a therapeutic community using psychoactive plants informed this view. Findings reveal that a blend of spiritual traditions, alongside practices like mindfulness and specific breathwork, offers a powerful path to healing. Ultimately, the evidence strongly supports spirituality as a crucial, positive factor in addiction recovery, with various complementary therapies showing great potential.
Abstract
Objetivo. Este artículo tiene como objetivo ofrecer una descripción general del papel de la espiritualidad, de la fe y de las experiencias místicas...
Decreasing Workplace Violence With-Injury in an Acute Psychiatric Setting Through Brief Intentional Grounding.
Journal of holistic nursing : official journal of the American Holistic Nurses' Association – April 13, 2025
Summary
Integrating Brief Intentional Grounding into group therapy significantly reduced workplace violence with-injury by 50% in two acute psychiatric units over six months. This intervention not only fostered resilience and emotional regulation among patients but also enhanced their stress management and interpersonal connections. Staff reported improved well-being, highlighting the dual benefits of mindfulness practices. With 100 participants surveyed, the findings underscore the positive impact of mindfulness in inpatient psychiatric care, promoting a safer environment for both patients and healthcare providers.
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate if integrating a holistic mindfulness modality into group therapy can decrease violence with-inju...
Meditation and Compassion Therapy in Psychiatric Disorders: A Pilot Study.
Cureus – July 01, 2024
Summary
Participants in a compassion-based meditation program showed significant improvements in acceptance, mindfulness, and self-compassion compared to standard care. Out of 75 individuals (mean age 44.8), the experimental group (48) experienced notable increases in scores for acceptance (AAQ-II), mindfulness (MAAS), and self-compassion (SCS), along with a decrease in psychological distress (SCL-90). Meanwhile, the control group (27) only saw a reduction in distress. This highlights the potential benefits of integrating compassion and meditation into treatment for depression, eating disorders, and addictions.
Abstract
Introduction Our study aimed to compare meditation and compassion-based group therapy with the standard of care in patients with eating disorders, ...
Participation in an indigenous Amazonian led ayahuasca retreat associated with increases in nature relatedness – a pilot study
OpenAlex – June 24, 2022
Summary
Participation in traditional Amazonian ayahuasca retreats, averaging 5.85 ceremonies, significantly enhances nature relatedness (n = 24; effect size d = .51) and mindfulness (n = 38; d = .75), while also reducing depression (n = 47; d = 1.18) and both state (n = 47; d = 1.02) and trait anxiety (n = 42; d = .88). Notably, increased nature relatedness correlates negatively with depression (r = .623) and anxiety, and positively with mindfulness (r = .747). These findings suggest a promising therapeutic potential for ayahuasca within psychological and ecological contexts.
Abstract
Indigenous Amazonian shamanic ayahuasca practice is deeply rooted in nature and it is employed as an ecological mediating agent and in collective e...