Consciousness and attention, though often conflated, should be regarded as separate brain processes with overlapping but distinct neural activity. Phenomenal consciousness likely arises from synchronized networks in temporo-parietal-occipital areas, while attention, supported by fronto-parietal networks, later provides focal awareness of specific features. Advances in functional neuroimaging have improved understanding, but conceptual difficulties still hamper research and theory. A coherent model of the neural correlates of these functions requires careful interpretation of empirical findings.
Mindfulness meditation, a practice originating in the East over two millennia ago, has recently drawn the attention of Western neuroscientists. This review summarizes hypotheses about the effects of mindfulness meditation and its cerebral correlates, and presents major theories on consciousness. It proposes an integration of mindfulness meditation with consciousness, supported by the identification of shared brain areas: the Anterior Cingulate Cortex (ACC), Posterior Cingulate Cortex (PCC), Insula, and Thalamus.