Neurofeedback of meditation states to close the loop between subjective experience and brain activity: Evaluating four neural markers

A study evaluated four neural markers—frontal midline theta, posterior alpha, frontal alpha asymmetry, and sensorimotor rhythm—for their suitability as real-time neurofeedback targets during meditation. The goal was to close the loop between subjective experience and brain activity, enabling meditators to self-regulate their brain states. The authors assessed each marker's reliability, responsiveness to meditation, and practicality for neurofeedback. They concluded that frontal midline theta and posterior alpha show the most promise for this application, while frontal alpha asymmetry and sensorimotor rhythm have limitations. The work suggests that selecting appropriate neural markers is critical for effective neurofeedback training in meditation.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Neurofeedback of meditation states to close the loop between subjective experience and brain activity: Evaluating four neural markers