A systematic review of the neurophysiology of mindfulness on EEG oscillations

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.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Mindfulness meditation has been purported as a beneficial practice for wellbeing. It would be expected that the neurophysiology of mindfulness would reflect this impact on wellbeing. However, investigations of the effect of mindfulness have generated mixed reports of increases, decreases, as well as no differences in EEG oscillations in comparison with a resting state and a variety of tasks. We have performed systematic review of EEG studies of mindfulness meditation in order to determine any common effects and to identify factors which may impact on the effects. Databases were reviewed from 1966 to August 2015. Eligibility criteria included empirical quantitative analyses of mindfulness meditation practice and EEG measurements acquired in relation to practice. A total of 56 papers met the eligibility criteria and were included in the systematic review, consisting of a total 1,715 subjects: 1,358 healthy individuals and 357 individuals with psychiatric diagnoses. Studies were principally examined for power outcomes in each bandwidth, in particular the power differentials between mindfulness and the control state, as well as outcomes relating to hemispheric asymmetry and event-related potentials. The systematic review revealed that mindfulness was most commonly associated with enhanced alpha and theta power as compared to an eyes closed resting state, although such outcomes were not uniformly reported. No consistent patterns were observed with respect to beta, delta and gamma bandwidths. In summary, mindfulness is associated with increased alpha and theta power in both healthy individuals and in patient groups. This co-presence of elevated alpha and theta may signify a state of relaxed alertness which is conducive to mental health