A systematic review of the neurophysiology of mindfulness on EEG oscillations
Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews January 1, 2015 Tim Lomas, Itai Ivtzan, Cynthia H.Y. Fu 510 citations
Mindfulness meditation is linked to increased alpha and theta brain wave power compared to resting with eyes closed, suggesting a state of relaxed alertness that may benefit mental health. A systematic review of 56 studies involving 1,358 healthy individuals and 357 people with psychiatric diagnoses found that enhanced alpha and theta power was the most common pattern, though not uniformly reported. No consistent changes were seen in beta, delta, or gamma brain waves. The co-occurrence of elevated alpha and theta may indicate a beneficial mental state conducive to psychological health.