Alterations in Functional Connectivity Measured by Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging and the Relationship With Heart Rate Variability in Subjects After Performing Orgasmic Meditation: An Exploratory Study
Frontiers in Psychology November 11, 2021 Andrew B. Newberg, Nancy Wintering, Chloe Hriso et al. 10 citations
A meditation practice augmented by clitoral stimulation, called orgasmic meditation (OM), alters resting brain functional connectivity in both male and female participants. After a 15-minute session where the male stimulates the female's clitoris, functional magnetic resonance imaging showed significant changes in brain regions including the left superior temporal lobe, frontal lobe, anterior cingulate, and insula for the entire group. Females showed additional connectivity changes in the cerebellum, thalamus, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex, while males showed changes in the supramarginal gyrus, cerebellum, and orbitofrontal gyrus. These changes represent a hybrid of patterns seen in meditation and sexual stimulation, suggesting a dynamic relationship between sexuality and spirituality.