A trained Mongolian shamanic practitioner self-induced a trance state without external sensory stimulation while undergoing quantitative EEG mapping and LORETA source imaging. The shamanic state of consciousness involved a shift from the normally dominant left analytical to the right experiential mode of self-experience, and from anterior prefrontal to posterior somatosensory mode. These neurophysiological changes may help explain brain networks underlying the autobiographical self, the boundary between self and others, and dissociative, psychotic, and transpersonal experiences. The findings offer a basis for integrating Western and traditional healing approaches.
Healthcare professionals face high stress and burnout risk. This pilot study tested an online 4-week Loving-kindness and Compassion Meditation (LKCM) training for healthcare workers in Hong Kong. Eighty-two participants were randomly assigned to LKCM or a waitlist. Most (77.5%) attended at least three of four sessions, and over 90% rated the course satisfactory. Overall, no significant differences emerged between groups on psychological outcomes. However, among the 23 participants with moderate or higher baseline stress, LKCM showed immediate benefits: reduced emotional exhaustion, increased personal accomplishment, and greater social connectedness. Online LKCM appears feasible and acceptable, with potential benefits for stressed healthcare professionals.
Walking a projected light labyrinth for about 10 minutes produced a short-term physiological arousal followed by relaxation in 25 young adults and youth. During the walk, respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) decreased and salivary alpha amylase (sAA) increased, indicating autonomic arousal. After the walk, RSA increased, indicating relaxation, and participants self-reported calmness. The findings suggest labyrinth walking may be a useful tool for managing psychological stress.
Transcendental Meditation may benefit some children and young adults with autism spectrum disorders. Six carefully evaluated individuals with diagnosed ASDs appeared to benefit from the practice. The piece offers thoughts on how the technique might help such individuals, drawing from anecdotal reports and these case evaluations.