ISSN 1090-0586; 1573-3270;
4 papers in the library · publishing 2019-2026
Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback June 17, 2026
Slow, deep breathing at a 10-second rhythm (six breaths per minute) synchronizes slow cortical potentials in the human brain, suggesting a direct link between respiratory rhythms and brain activity. This synchronization may underlie the calming and consciousness-altering effects of slow breathing practices.
Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback April 3, 2026
Regular meditation practice and trait mindfulness are associated with reduced emotional reactivity, as measured by the affective startle reflex. In a psychophysiological study, individuals who meditated regularly showed weaker startle responses to unpleasant images compared to non-meditators, suggesting greater emotional regulation. Trait mindfulness, particularly the ability to describe and act with awareness, also predicted reduced startle magnitude. Psychological characteristics such as lower neuroticism and higher openness were linked to these effects. The findings indicate that both formal meditation practice and dispositional mindfulness contribute to adaptive emotional processing.
Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback May 17, 2022
This paper evaluates heart rate variability (HRV) and the application of HRV biofeedback, aiming to guide further research on slow-paced abdominal breathing in Zen meditation. The authors review existing literature on HRV and its measurement, discuss the mechanisms and benefits of HRV biofeedback, and propose that slow-paced abdominal breathing—a core component of Zen meditation—may enhance HRV and related health outcomes. They argue that integrating HRV biofeedback with Zen breathing practices could offer a structured approach to studying the physiological effects of meditation. The paper calls for more rigorous empirical studies to explore this connection.
Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback December 1, 2019
This research examines changes in heart rate variability, cortisol levels, and attention focus during Shamatha quiescence meditation. The findings indicate that this meditation practice is associated with alterations in physiological markers and attentional processes, suggesting a potential link between meditative states and autonomic nervous system regulation.