Loving-Kindness Meditation: Systematic Review of Neuroimaging Correlates in Long-Term Practitioners and Clinical Implications.
Brain Behav March 1, 2025 Kiren Bashir, Stephen B. Edstrom, Sara J. Barlow et al. 4 citations
Loving-kindness meditation (LKM) is associated with measurable changes in brain structure and function, particularly in regions linked to emotional regulation, empathy, and compassion. This systematic review of neuroimaging studies in long-term LKM practitioners found consistent evidence of altered activity and gray matter volume in areas such as the insula, anterior cingulate cortex, and prefrontal cortex. These brain changes correlate with enhanced prosocial emotions and emotional balance, suggesting that LKM may foster neuroplasticity supporting mental well-being. The findings imply potential clinical applications for conditions involving emotional dysregulation, though further research is needed to confirm therapeutic efficacy.