Neuromeditation: The Science and Practice of Combining Neurofeedback and Meditation for Improved Mental Health

EEG biofeedback can help meditators learn to enter and maintain desired states of consciousness by tracking brainwave activity associated with focus, relaxation, mind-wandering, body-based emotions, and internal quiet. This technology may address common challenges for beginning meditators who are unsure if they are meditating correctly and for advanced meditators who hit a plateau. The chapter reviews early research, presents an original case study, and describes how EEG biofeedback is used as a treatment for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Beginning meditators often complain that they do not know if they are “doing it right” or give up before realizing significant benefits. Advanced meditators often reach a plateau and struggle to reach “the next level” of their practice. Modern researchers and practitioners are finding a possible new solution to these challenges by using EEG biofeedback to increase awareness of subtle states of consciousness and speed the learning process. By tracking brainwave activity in specific regions of the brain, we can tell if someone is focused or relaxed. We can tell if the mind is wandering, if they are engaged in body-based emotions, or if they have entered a space of internal quiet. By monitoring this activity and connecting it directly to the intent of the meditation, it is possible to help meditators learn to quickly enter a desired state of consciousness and maintain this state for increasing periods of time. This chapter will describe the early research conducted in this area along with an original case study conducted by the author. In addition, the author will describe the way this technology is being used as a treatment intervention for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and PTSD