Neurophysiological and Cognitive Effects of Transcendental Meditation: Evidence from EEG Biomarkers and Reaction Time.

A 12-week Transcendental Meditation intervention (20 minutes/day, 5 days/week) in 34 healthy adults aged 25–50 reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure and pulse rate with a small effect size. EEG analysis showed increased functional connectivity across fronto-central and occipital regions. Visual and auditory reaction times improved significantly, with the largest effect in auditory reaction time. The findings suggest TM enhances cardiovascular regulation, brain connectivity, and cognitive processing speed, reflecting improved neural efficiency and autonomic balance, and may serve as a simple, non-pharmacological approach for improving cognitive performance and well-being.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Transcendental meditation (TM) is broadly trained mind-body intervention for its prospective benefits on physical and mental health. However, evidence exploring its effects on brain connectivity and cognitive performance remains inadequate. This research aimed to evaluate the influence of TM on EEG functional connectivity and audiovisual reaction time in healthy adults. This prospective single group study was undertaken after institutional ethical approval among 34 healthy adults aged between 25-50 years who completed a 12-week transcendental meditation intervention (20 minutes/day, 5 days/week). Physiological parameters including pulse rate and blood pressure were recorded using standardized protocols. Neurophysiological assessment was performed using a 32-channel EEG system and functional connectivity was analysed using Weighted Phase Lag Index (WPLI). Cognitive performance was assessed by audio-visual reaction time. Pre-post-intervention differences were analysed using paired t-test and effect sizes were calculated using Cohen's d. TM practice significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure, along with significant reduction in pulse rate with a small effect size (p = 0.021, d = 0.29). EEG analysis showed increased functional connectivity across fronto-central and occipital regions. Visual and auditory reaction times improved significantly, with the largest effect observed in auditory reaction time. TM enhances cardiovascular regulation, brain connectivity and cognitive processing speed, reflecting improved neural efficiency and autonomic balance. It may serve as a simple, non-pharmacological approach for improving cognitive performance and well-being.