Mindfulness-Based Intervention Effects on EEG and Executive Functions: A Systematic Review.
Brain sciences March 20, 2025 Gilberto Galindo-Aldana, Luis Arturo Montoya-Rivera, Jose Jaime Esqueda-Elizondo et al. 3 citations
A systematic review of 141 articles found that research on mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) and their effects on executive function, social cognition, and EEG is scarce but suggests strong correlations between cognitive improvements and shifts in alpha-beta brainwave asymmetry in frontal areas. Executive functions—including emotional regulation, awareness, planning, social skills, and focused attention—are the most studied domain, while social cognition receives less attention. Although 58% of treatment effect estimates were positive, the average outcome did not significantly differ from zero. The authors conclude that methodological variations and confounding factors prevent attributing inaccurate or generalizable benefits.