Mindfulness practices affect key brain circuits and networks relevant to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The executive attention, sustained attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity circuits are all engaged by mindfulness, as are the central executive, default mode, and salience networks. The authors suggest that more research is needed to identify the neuropsychological mechanisms by which mindfulness alleviates ADHD symptoms.
A 3-month aerobic dance program improved cognitive function and strengthened structural connections within the default mode network in older adults with amnestic mild cognitive impairment. Sixteen participants in the exercise group showed significant gains in global cognition, memory, and executive function compared to baseline, while the control group showed no change. The exercise group also had increased structural connections between the hippocampus and several temporal regions, as well as between the default mode network and the supplementary motor area. These connectivity changes correlated with better cognitive scores, suggesting that aerobic dance may enhance brain structure and memory in this population.
Brief mindfulness meditation training improved prosocial driving behavior in a virtual reality urban traffic scene. The positive effect persisted throughout the experiment, suggesting that even short mindfulness practice can make people friendlier while driving. This extends previous laboratory findings to a more realistic driving scenario, supporting the claim that mindfulness promotes prosocial behavior.
Mindfulness meditation appears to influence mental health through changes in gene expression, brain circuits, and neural networks. Evidence shows that mindfulness practices affect stress-related inflammatory markers by altering gene expression in immune cells. The review identifies three key brain networks involved: the default mode network, central executive network, and salience network. However, more research is needed to fully understand the neuropsychological mechanisms by which mindfulness meditation alleviates symptoms of mental disorders.