1
|
Luo X, Zhao J, Zhao D, Wang L, Hou Y, Liu Y, Zeng J, Yuan H, Lei X. Differences in attentional function between experienced mindfulness meditators and non-meditators. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1341294. [PMID: 38563033 PMCID: PMC10982879 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1341294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Attentional enhancement has often been identified as the central cognitive mechanism underlying the benefits of mindfulness meditation. However, the extent to which this enhancement is observable in the neural processes underlying long-term meditation is unclear. This current study aimed to examine differences in attentional performance between meditators and controls (non-meditators) using a visual oddball task with concurrent electroencephalography (EEG) recordings. Methods Thirty-four participants were recruited, including 16 meditators and 18 healthy controls, who were non-meditators. The participants completed a visual oddball task, using visual stimuli, and EEG recording. Results Self-reports revealed that meditators had higher mindful attention scores than did the control group. The behavioral results showed that the meditators demonstrated faster reaction times than the non-meditators did. Neural findings indicated a higher P2 amplitude in the meditators than in the controls. The meditators demonstrated a significantly higher P3 in the target trials than in the distractor trials, which was not observed in the controls. Additionally, the time-frequency analysis demonstrated that the delta and theta powers in the meditators were significantly higher than those in the controls. Conclusions The study suggests the meditators exhibited greater attentional performance than the controls did, as revealed by EEG and behavioral measures. This study extends previous research on the effects of mindfulness meditation on attention and adds to our understanding of the effects of long-term mindfulness meditation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Luo
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jia Zhao
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dongfang Zhao
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Wang
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yi Hou
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Zeng
- Peking University School of Public Health, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Yuan
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xu Lei
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Malipeddi S, Mehrotra S, John JP, Kutty BM. Practice and proficiency of Isha Yoga for better mental health outcomes: insights from a COVID-19 survey. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1280859. [PMID: 38371236 PMCID: PMC10869487 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1280859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unparalleled suffering on a global scale, affecting both physical and mental well-being. In such challenging times, it becomes crucial to identify interventions that can alleviate negative mental health outcomes, such as stress, while promoting positive mental health outcomes, like well-being. We report the effectiveness of a mind-body practise, Isha Yoga, in promoting well-being. Methods We conducted an online survey, during the COVID-19 pandemic, with Yoga practitioners (n = 1,352) from the Isha Yoga tradition in Karnataka, India. We evaluated stress and well-being attributes using conventional psychometric questionnaires. Subsequently, we requested the Isha Yoga practitioners to share another survey with their friends and family members, assessing similar outcomes. From the respondents of this shared survey (n = 221), we identified individuals who currently did not engage in any form of Yoga or meditation, constituting the non-Yoga control group (n = 110). To enhance the reliability and validity of our study and minimize the limitations commonly associated with online surveys, we adhered to the CHERRIES guidelines for reporting survey studies. Results Isha Yoga practitioners had significantly lower levels of stress (p < 0.001, gHedges = 0.94) and mental distress (p < 0.001, gHedges = 0.75) while reporting significantly higher levels of well-being (p < 0.001, gHedges = 0.78) and affective balance (p < 0.001, gHedges = 0.80) compared to the control group. Furthermore, expertise-related improvements were observed in these outcomes, and a dose-response relationship was found between regularity of Isha Yoga practice and outcome changes. A minimum 3-4 days of weekly practice showed significant differences with the control group. In addition, we investigated the effect of Isha Yoga on stress and well-being among the healthcare workers (HCWs) in our sample and observed better mental health outcomes. Discussion These findings collectively underscore the benefits of Mind and Body practices like Isha Yoga on various aspects of mental health and well-being, emphasizing its potential as an effective and holistic approach for promoting a healthy lifestyle among diverse populations, including healthcare workers, even in difficult circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saketh Malipeddi
- Centre for Consciousness Studies, Department of Neurophysiology, NIMHANS, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Seema Mehrotra
- Department of Clinical Psychology, NIMHANS, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - John P. John
- Multi-modal Brain Image Analysis Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, NIMHANS, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Bindu M. Kutty
- Centre for Consciousness Studies, Department of Neurophysiology, NIMHANS, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gunuc S, Koylu EO. Investigation of the Relationships Between Beck Depression/Anxiety Scores and Neuropsychological Tests Scores with Lifestyle Behaviors in the Context of Neuroplasticity and Neurogenesis Approach. Neuroscience 2023; 516:62-74. [PMID: 36805428 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2023.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the relationships between lifestyle behaviors within the scope of neuroplasticity and neurogenesis approach and depression, anxiety and neuropsychological test scores were examined. As this study aimed to reveal the relationships between events or variables, it was designed using the "descriptive cross-sectional study" method, one of descriptive and relational research methods, was used. The data were collected from 117 students by the researchers using the Öktem Verbal Memory Test, WCST, Digit Span Test, Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Scale and Lifestyle Behaviors Survey.According to the results, the quality of sport/exercise and the quality of life showed a significant difference in the depression model, while social support demonstrated a significant difference in the anxiety model. It was seen that those with high scores in life quality and in perceived social support had significantly lower depression and anxiety scores. Moreover, those with good levels of sleep quality, social interaction and nutrition had significantly lower depression scores.Both depression and anxiety scores of those who did sport/exercise, which was among the lifestyle behaviors, were found to be significantly lower. Lastly, the correlations between the neuropsychological test scores and the depression and anxiety scores were examined, and a significant positive correlation was found between both depression and anxiety scores and the "failure to maintain set" scores.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Selim Gunuc
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, İzmir Bakırçay University, İzmir, Turkey.
| | - Ersin O Koylu
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, İzmir Bakırçay University, İzmir, Turkey; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Bornova, İzmir, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Shemesh L, Mendelsohn A, Panitz DY, Berkovich-Ohana A. Enhanced declarative memory in long-term mindfulness practitioners. PSYCHOLOGICAL RESEARCH 2023; 87:294-307. [PMID: 35226153 DOI: 10.1007/s00426-022-01642-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Mindfulness meditation (MM) practice is considered to benefit physical and mental health. In particular, several studies have shown a beneficial effect of MM practice on memory performance. However, it is still not clear how long-term training affects long-term declarative memory. In this study we aimed to examine whether long-term MM training impacts declarative memory formation for diverse memoranda types, as well as the role of trait mindfulness, and the possible mediating role of anxiety. METHODS We examined long-term memory performance in 23 experienced MM practitioners and 22 meditation-naïve age-matched individuals, by administering a variety of declarative memory tests, ranging from item recognition to narrative and autobiographical memory recollection and future projection. The participants also filled the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). RESULTS Compared to the control group, long-term MM practitioners exhibited heightened memory performance for the picture recognition test and experienced enhanced vividness during autobiographic memory retrieval and future simulations. We also report a significant trait mindfulness and memory performance correlation, stemming exclusively from the Mm group. CONCLUSIONS Our findings extend previous reports of the beneficial effect of a short-term MM training on memory performance, by showing the beneficial effect of long-term training on declarative memory. We also provide initial evidence that trait mindfulness is positively correlated with declarative memory performance, as a function of MM practice, and discuss these findings in light of the role of self-mode and cognitive diffusion, as well as attention and emotion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Limor Shemesh
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Avi Mendelsohn
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.,The Institute of Information Processing and Decision Making (IIPDM), University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.,The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBRC), University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Daniel Yochai Panitz
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.,The Institute of Information Processing and Decision Making (IIPDM), University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Aviva Berkovich-Ohana
- The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center (IBBRC), University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel. .,Faculty of Education, Department of Learning, Instruction and Teacher Education, Department of Counseling and Human Development, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel. .,Edmond Safra Brain Research Center, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel. .,Faculty of Education, The Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center, The Edmond J. Safra Brain Research Center for the Study of Learning Disabilities, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Large-scale genomic study reveals robust activation of the immune system following advanced Inner Engineering meditation retreat. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2110455118. [PMID: 34907015 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2110455118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The positive impact of meditation on human well-being is well documented, yet its molecular mechanisms are incompletely understood. We applied a comprehensive systems biology approach starting with whole-blood gene expression profiling combined with multilevel bioinformatic analyses to characterize the coexpression, transcriptional, and protein-protein interaction networks to identify a meditation-specific core network after an advanced 8-d Inner Engineering retreat program. We found the response to oxidative stress, detoxification, and cell cycle regulation pathways were down-regulated after meditation. Strikingly, 220 genes directly associated with immune response, including 68 genes related to interferon signaling, were up-regulated, with no significant expression changes in the inflammatory genes. This robust meditation-specific immune response network is significantly dysregulated in multiple sclerosis and severe COVID-19 patients. The work provides a foundation for understanding the effect of meditation and suggests that meditation as a behavioral intervention can voluntarily and nonpharmacologically improve the immune response for treating various conditions associated with excessive or persistent inflammation with a dampened immune system profile.
Collapse
|
6
|
Vishnubhotla RV, Radhakrishnan R, Kveraga K, Deardorff R, Ram C, Pawale D, Wu YC, Renschler J, Subramaniam B, Sadhasivam S. Advanced Meditation Alters Resting-State Brain Network Connectivity Correlating With Improved Mindfulness. Front Psychol 2021; 12:745344. [PMID: 34867626 PMCID: PMC8636330 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.745344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of an intensive 8-day Samyama meditation program on the brain functional connectivity using resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI). Methods: Thirteen Samyama program participants (meditators) and 4 controls underwent fMRI brain scans before and after the 8-day residential meditation program. Subjects underwent fMRI with a blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) contrast at rest and during focused breathing. Changes in network connectivity before and after Samyama program were evaluated. In addition, validated psychological metrics were correlated with changes in functional connectivity. Results: Meditators showed significantly increased network connectivity between the salience network (SN) and default mode network (DMN) after the Samyama program (p < 0.01). Increased connectivity within the SN correlated with an improvement in self-reported mindfulness scores (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Samyama, an intensive silent meditation program, favorably increased the resting-state functional connectivity between the salience and default mode networks. During focused breath watching, meditators had lower intra-network connectivity in specific networks. Furthermore, increased intra-network connectivity correlated with improved self-reported mindfulness after Samyama. Clinical Trials Registration: [https://clinicaltrials.gov], Identifier: [NCT04366544]. Registered on 4/17/2020.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramana V Vishnubhotla
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Rupa Radhakrishnan
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Kestas Kveraga
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Sadhguru Center for a Conscious Planet, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Rachael Deardorff
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Chithra Ram
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Dhanashri Pawale
- Department of Anesthesia, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Yu-Chien Wu
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Janelle Renschler
- Department of Anesthesia, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Balachundhar Subramaniam
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Sadhguru Center for a Conscious Planet, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Senthilkumar Sadhasivam
- Department of Anesthesia, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Poli A, Gemignani A, Soldani F, Miccoli M. A Systematic Review of a Polyvagal Perspective on Embodied Contemplative Practices as Promoters of Cardiorespiratory Coupling and Traumatic Stress Recovery for PTSD and OCD: Research Methodologies and State of the Art. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:11778. [PMID: 34831534 PMCID: PMC8619958 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182211778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Baseline respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) has been proposed as a transdiagnostic biomarker of stress vulnerability across psychopathologies, and a reliable association between PTSD, OCD and lower resting RSA was found. Contemplative practices have been linked to the activation of the vagus as well as to an increased RSA that, according to the polyvagal theory, reflects the activation of the ventral vagal complex (VVC) and may promote PTSD and OCD recovery. PubMed and Scopus databases were selected to conduct a search following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines, and A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews-2 (AMSTAR-2) was used to appraise the methodological quality for this systematic review. Six articles met the inclusion criteria (one cross-sectional study, one study with pre-post measurements, two cohort studies and two RCT studies). Mindfulness-related interventions promoted parasympathetic activity, an increased vagal tone and improvements in PTSD and OCD symptoms. According to the polyvagal theory, mindfulness-related and compassion-related meditations would be conceptualized as neural exercises expanding the capacity of the ventral vagal complex to regulate the present state and to promote resilience. Clinical and methodological issues are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Poli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Angelo Gemignani
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and of Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | | | - Mario Miccoli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Investigating mindfulness influences on cognitive function: On the promise and potential of converging research strategies. Psychon Bull Rev 2021; 29:1198-1222. [PMID: 34608602 DOI: 10.3758/s13423-021-02008-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Research investigating the effects and underlying mechanisms of mindfulness on cognitive functioning has accelerated exponentially over the past two decades. Despite the rapid growth of the literature and its influential role in garnering public interest in mindfulness, inconsistent methods in defining and measuring mindfulness have yielded variable findings, which contribute to the overall dearth of clear generalizable conclusions. The focus of this article is to address the lack of cohesion in the collective methodologies used in this domain by providing a new perspective grounded in classic cognitive and experimental psychology principles. We leverage the concept of converging operations to demonstrate how seemingly disparate research strategies can be integrated towards a more unified and systematic approach. An organizing taxonomic framework is described to provide useful structure in how mindfulness can be operationalized, measured, and investigated. We illustrate the rationale and core organizing principles of the framework through a selective review of studies on mindfulness and cognitive control. We then demonstrate the utility of the approach by showing how it can be applied to synthesize extant methodologies and guide the development of future research. Specific suggestions and examples pertaining to experimental design and statistical analysis are provided.
Collapse
|
9
|
Sadhasivam S, Alankar S, Maturi R, Williams A, Vishnubhotla RV, Hariri S, Mudigonda M, Pawale D, Dubbireddi S, Packiasabapathy S, Castelluccio P, Ram C, Renschler J, Chang T, Subramaniam B. Isha Yoga Practices and Participation in Samyama Program are Associated with Reduced HbA1C and Systemic Inflammation, Improved Lipid Profile, and Short-Term and Sustained Improvement in Mental Health: A Prospective Observational Study of Meditators. Front Psychol 2021; 12:659667. [PMID: 34093351 PMCID: PMC8170079 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.659667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Meditation is gaining recognition as a tool to impact health and well-being. Samyama is an 8-day intensive residential meditation experience conducted by Isha Foundation requiring several months of extensive preparation and vegan diet. The health effects of Samyama have not been previously studied. The objective was to assess physical and emotional well-being before and after Samyama participation by evaluating psychological surveys and objective health biomarkers. Methods: This was an observational study of 632 adults before and after the Isha Samyama retreat. All participants were invited to complete surveys. Controls included household significant others. Surveys were completed at baseline (T1), just before Samyama (T2), immediately after Samyama (T3), and 3 months later (T4) to assess anxiety, depression, mindfulness, joy, vitality, and resilience through validated psychometric scales. Voluntary blood sampling for biomarker analysis was done to assess hemoglobin (Hb), HbA1c, lipid profile, and C-reactive protein (CRP). Primary outcomes were changes in psychometric scores, body weight, and blood biomarkers. Results: Depression and anxiety scores decreased from T1 to T3, with the effect most pronounced in participants with baseline depression or anxiety. Scores at T4 remained below baseline for those with pre-existing depression or anxiety. Vitality, resilience, joy, and mindfulness increased from T1 to T3 (sustained at T4). Body weight decreased by 3% from T1 to T3. Triglycerides (TG) were lower from T2 to T3. Participants had lower HbA1c and HDL at T2, and lower CRP at all timepoints compared with controls. Conclusions: Participation in the Isha Samyama program led to multiple benefits. The 2-month preparation reduced anxiety, and participants maintained lower anxiety levels at 3 months post-retreat. Physical health improved over the course of the program as evidenced by weight loss and improved HbA1C and lipid profile. Practices associated with the Samyama preparation phase and the retreat may serve as an effective way to improve physical and mental health. Future studies may examine their use as an alternative therapy in patients with depression and/or anxiety. Clinical Trial Registration: www.ClinicalTrials.gov, Identifier: 1801728792. Registered retrospectively on 4/17/2020.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Senthilkumar Sadhasivam
- Department of Anesthesia, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Suresh Alankar
- Vascular Surgery, Honorary Staff, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Raj Maturi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Amy Williams
- Department of Psychiatry, Riley Hospital for Children, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Ramana V Vishnubhotla
- Department of Anesthesia, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States.,Department of Radiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Sepideh Hariri
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Sadhguru Center for a Conscious Planet, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Mayur Mudigonda
- Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Dhanashri Pawale
- Department of Anesthesia, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Sangeeth Dubbireddi
- Cardiac Intensivist, Ascension Health, St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Senthil Packiasabapathy
- Department of Anesthesia, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Peter Castelluccio
- Department of Biostatistics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Chithra Ram
- Department of Radiology, University of Louisville Hospital, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Janelle Renschler
- Department of Anesthesia, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Tracy Chang
- Department of Labor Studies and Employment Relations, School of Management and Labor Relations, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Balachundhar Subramaniam
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Sadhguru Center for a Conscious Planet, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Sharma S, Nivethitha L, Mooventhan A. Effect of Moola Bandha (Perineum Contraction), A Yogic Lock on Cognitive Functions of College Students: An Exploratory Study. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2020; 59:1388-1397. [PMID: 31172394 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-019-00856-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Academic performance and excellence of college students are mainly depending on their cognitive functions. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a yogic lock or hold, Moola bandha (perineum contraction) on cognitive functions of teacher training college students. Twenty-three healthy volunteers with the mean ± standard deviation age of 21.96 ± 1.64 years were recruited from a district institute of education and training (DIET) college, North India. All the subjects were asked to perform Moola bandha for the duration of 30 min a day (15 min in the morning and 15 min in the evening) for a period of 30 days. Assessments were taken before and after the intervention period. Results of this study showed a significant increase in the scores of d2 attention total number, digits span forward and backward test, Stroop tasks (neutral total and correct, congruent total and correct, and incongruent correct), and self-control scale along with a significant reduction in d2 attention (omission, commission, and timings), trail making text A and B duration, and positive and negative affective schedule's negative affect scores compared with its respective baseline. These results suggest that 30 min of daily practice of Moola bandha for 30 days is effective in improving the cognitive functions of teacher training college students.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sakshi Sharma
- Department of Yoga Therapy, S-VYASA Deemed to be University, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - L Nivethitha
- Department of Naturopathy, Government Yoga and Naturopathy Medical College, Arumbakkam, Chennai, 600106, Tamilnadu, India
| | - A Mooventhan
- Department of Naturopathy, Government Yoga and Naturopathy Medical College, Arumbakkam, Chennai, 600106, Tamilnadu, India.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Examining the Impact of a Single Session of Mountain Meditation on Attentional Scope. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s41465-019-00160-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
|
12
|
Weng J, DeMarree KG. An Examination of Whether Mindfulness Can Predict the Relationship Between Objective and Subjective Attitudinal Ambivalence. Front Psychol 2019; 10:854. [PMID: 31068857 PMCID: PMC6491762 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Ambivalence is a mixed reaction toward an attitudinal object. Ambivalence is often viewed as aversive and people are motivated to reduce it. However, the presence of both strong positive and negative attitudes toward an object (objective ambivalence; OA) does not always lead to consciously experienced conflicted and torn feelings (subjective ambivalence; SA) or psychological discomfort. We hypothesized that the way people think about their inner experience can affect whether ambivalent attitudes lead to increased conflicted feelings. In five studies, we examined whether mindfulness predicts the relationship between objective and subjective ambivalence. We predicted that the acceptance aspect of mindfulness would attenuate the relationship between OA and SA, based on the idea that acceptance makes people more tolerant and less judgmental toward their inner states in general (and OA in particular). Although some findings across five studies were consistent with the prediction showing that acceptance attenuated the OA–SA relationship, other findings were not and even showed that acceptance strengthened the OA–SA relationship. A meta-analysis of the interaction effect across all studies failed to find support for predictions (r = -0.036 and 95% CI [-0.087; 0.022]). We discuss possible reasons for these mixed findings, and the implications of these studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Weng
- Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Kenneth G DeMarree
- Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
If two to-be-identified targets are presented in close temporal succession, identification for the second target is typically impaired. This attentional blink (AB) phenomenon has long been considered as a robust, universal cognitive limitation. However, more recent studies have demonstrated that AB task performance greatly differs between individuals, with some individuals even showing no AB in certain paradigms. Several studies have focused on these individual differences in an attempt to reveal the mechanism underlying the AB, but an overview of this approach is currently missing. Here, by reviewing studies regarding individual differences in AB task performance, we investigate how individual differences have contributed to our understanding of the AB. We show that the individual differences AB literature provides reliable indications that the AB is a multifaceted phenomenon that presumably arises from a combination of factors; individuals with higher levels of executive working memory (WM) functioning and broad attentional focus perform better in the AB paradigm than individuals with lower executive functioning of WM and narrow attentional focus. As it turns out, seeing the bigger picture certainly seems helpful for AB task performance.
Collapse
|
14
|
Montero-Marin J, Puebla-Guedea M, Herrera-Mercadal P, Cebolla A, Soler J, Demarzo M, Vazquez C, Rodríguez-Bornaetxea F, García-Campayo J. Psychological Effects of a 1-Month Meditation Retreat on Experienced Meditators: The Role of Non-attachment. Front Psychol 2016; 7:1935. [PMID: 28018270 PMCID: PMC5149565 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2016.01935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2016] [Accepted: 11/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There are few studies devoted to assessing the impact of meditation-intensive retreats on the well-being, positive psychology, and personality of experienced meditators. We aimed to assess whether a 1-month Vipassana retreat: (a) would increase mindfulness and well-being; (b) would increase prosocial personality traits; and (c) whether psychological changes would be mediated and/or moderated by non-attachment. Method: A controlled, non-randomized, pre-post-intervention trial was used. The intervention group was a convenience sample (n = 19) of experienced meditators who participated in a 1-month Vipassana meditation retreat. The control group (n = 19) comprised matched experienced meditators who did not take part in the retreat. During the retreat, the mean duration of daily practice was 8–9 h, the diet was vegetarian and silence was compulsory. The Experiences Questionnaire (EQ), Non-attachment Scale (NAS), Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS), Temperament Character Inventory Revised (TCI-R-67), Five Facets Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ), Self-Other Four Immeasurables (SOFI) and the MINDSENS Composite Index were administered. ANCOVAs and linear regression models were used to assess pre-post changes and mediation/moderation effects. Results: Compared to controls, retreatants showed increases in non-attachment, observing, MINDSENS, positive-affect, balance-affect, and cooperativeness; and decreases in describing, negative-others, reward-dependence and self-directedness. Non-attachment had a mediating role in decentring, acting aware, non-reactivity, negative-affect, balance-affect and self-directedness; and a moderating role in describing and positive others, with both mediating and moderating effects on satisfaction with life. Conclusions: A 1-month Vipassana meditation retreat seems to yield improvements in mindfulness, well-being, and personality, even in experienced meditators. Non-attachment might facilitate psychological improvements of meditation, making it possible to overcome possible ceiling effects ascribed to non-intensive practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Montero-Marin
- Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, Primary Care Prevention and Health Promotion Research Network, Zaragoza, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Marta Puebla-Guedea
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Primary Care Prevention and Health Promotion Research Network, Instituto Aragonés de Ciencias de la Salud, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Paola Herrera-Mercadal
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Primary Care Prevention and Health Promotion Research Network, Instituto Aragonés de Ciencias de la Salud, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ausias Cebolla
- Department of Personality, Evaluation and Psychological Treatment, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain.,CIBERObn Ciber Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Joaquim Soler
- Servei de Psiquiatria, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau (Barcelona), Departamento de Psicologia Clínica i de la Salut, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marcelo Demarzo
- Mente Aberta – Brazilian Center for Mindfulness and Health Promotion, Department of Preventive Medicine, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.,Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carmelo Vazquez
- Professor of Psychopathology, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Red PROMOSAM, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Javier García-Campayo
- Miguel Servet Hospital and University of Zaragoza, Primary Care Prevention and Health Promotion Research Network, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragon), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Zaragoza, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Jensen CG, Lansner J, Petersen A, Vangkilde SA, Ringkøbing SP, Frokjaer VG, Adamsen D, Knudsen GM, Denninger JW, Hasselbalch SG. Open and Calm--a randomized controlled trial evaluating a public stress reduction program in Denmark. BMC Public Health 2015; 15:1245. [PMID: 26673225 PMCID: PMC4682248 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-015-2588-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2015] [Accepted: 12/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Prolonged psychological stress is a risk factor for illness and constitutes an increasing public health challenge creating a need to develop public interventions specifically targeting stress and promoting mental health. The present randomized controlled trial evaluated health effects of a novel program: Relaxation-Response-based Mental Health Promotion (RR-MHP). Methods The multimodal, meditation-based course was publicly entitled “Open and Calm” (OC) because it consistently trained relaxed and receptive (“Open”) attention, and consciously non-intervening (“Calm”) witnessing, in two standardized formats (individual or group) over nine weeks. Seventy-two participants who complained to their general practitioner about reduced daily functioning due to prolonged stress or who responded to an online health survey on stress were randomly assigned to OC formats or treatment as usual, involving e.g., unstandardized consultations with their general practitioner. Outcomes included perceived stress, depressive symptoms, quality of life, sleep disturbances, mental health, salivary cortisol, and visual perception. Control variables comprised a genetic stress-resiliency factor (serotonergic transporter genotype; 5-HTTLPR), demographics, personality, self-reported inattentiveness, and course format. Results Intent-to-treat analyses showed significantly larger improvements in OC than in controls on all outcomes. Treatment effects on self-reported outcomes were sustained after 3 months and were not related to age, gender, education, or course format. The dropout rate was only 6 %. Conclusions The standardized OC program reduced stress and improved mental health for a period of 3 months. Further testing of the OC program for public mental health promotion and reduction of stress-related illnesses is therefore warranted. A larger implementation is in progress. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov.: NCT02140307. Registered May 14 2014. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12889-015-2588-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian G Jensen
- Neurobiology Research Unit (NRU) and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging (Cimbi), The Neuroscience Centre, Rigshospitalet and University of Copenhagen, Juliane Maries Vej 28, 3rd floor, 2100, Copenhagen OE, Denmark.
| | - Jon Lansner
- Neurobiology Research Unit (NRU) and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging (Cimbi), The Neuroscience Centre, Rigshospitalet and University of Copenhagen, Juliane Maries Vej 28, 3rd floor, 2100, Copenhagen OE, Denmark.
| | - Anders Petersen
- Center for Visual Cognition, Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 2A, 1353, Copenhagen K, Denmark.
| | - Signe A Vangkilde
- Center for Visual Cognition, Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 2A, 1353, Copenhagen K, Denmark.
| | - Signe P Ringkøbing
- Neurobiology Research Unit (NRU) and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging (Cimbi), The Neuroscience Centre, Rigshospitalet and University of Copenhagen, Juliane Maries Vej 28, 3rd floor, 2100, Copenhagen OE, Denmark.
| | - Vibe G Frokjaer
- Neurobiology Research Unit (NRU) and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging (Cimbi), The Neuroscience Centre, Rigshospitalet and University of Copenhagen, Juliane Maries Vej 28, 3rd floor, 2100, Copenhagen OE, Denmark.
| | - Dea Adamsen
- Neurobiology Research Unit (NRU) and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging (Cimbi), The Neuroscience Centre, Rigshospitalet and University of Copenhagen, Juliane Maries Vej 28, 3rd floor, 2100, Copenhagen OE, Denmark.
| | - Gitte M Knudsen
- Neurobiology Research Unit (NRU) and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging (Cimbi), The Neuroscience Centre, Rigshospitalet and University of Copenhagen, Juliane Maries Vej 28, 3rd floor, 2100, Copenhagen OE, Denmark.
| | - John W Denninger
- Benson-Henry Institute of Mind-Body Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, USA.
| | - Steen G Hasselbalch
- Neurobiology Research Unit (NRU) and Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging (Cimbi), The Neuroscience Centre, Rigshospitalet and University of Copenhagen, Juliane Maries Vej 28, 3rd floor, 2100, Copenhagen OE, Denmark. .,Danish Dementia Center, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Josipovic Z, Baars BJ. Editorial: What can Neuroscience Learn from Contemplative Practices? Front Psychol 2015; 6:1731. [PMID: 26617554 PMCID: PMC4639597 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zoran Josipovic
- Psychology Department, New York University New York, NY, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|