Effects of mindfulness breathing meditation on stress and cognitive functions: a heart rate variability and eye-tracking study
Scientific Reports October 24, 2025 Ling Yut Hooi, Po Ling Chen, Kok Wei Tan et al. 9 citations
Mindfulness meditation is an umbrella term for mental practices that are easy to learn across age, gender, ethnicity, and health conditions. Mindfulness involves conscious awareness of the present moment, attention, and openness. Five specific mindfulness breathing meditation techniques—4-4-4-4 breathing, Kapalabhati, Bhastrika, Nadishodhan, and Bhramari Pranayama—have shown beneficial effects on mental health and cognitive functions. However, the effects of combining these five techniques on perceived stress and cognition have not yet been studied. A combined approach may offer more comprehensive benefits, increase engagement, and reduce boredom, especially for beginners.