Dynamics of neural recruitment surrounding the spontaneous arising of thoughts in experienced mindfulness practitioners
Neuroimage April 30, 2016 Melissa Ellamil, Kieran C. R. Fox, Matthew L. Dixon et al. 150 citations
By studying experienced mindfulness practitioners who can closely observe when a thought first arises, researchers identified distinct brain regions that activate before versus after a thought emerges. Activity in the medial temporal lobe and inferior parietal lobule peaked before the thought began, suggesting these areas help generate spontaneous thoughts. In contrast, regions including the medial prefrontal, temporopolar, mid-insular, lateral prefrontal, and dorsal anterior cingulate cortices activated at or just after the thought's onset, indicating a role in elaborating or reflecting on the thought. These timing differences may explain why spontaneous thoughts are so varied and how they connect to memory and attention.