The Breadth of Mindful Breath: Modulating Cognitive Performance and Oscillatory EEG Activity through Repeated Mindfulness

Abstract

This study investigated the cognitive and neural effects of a remotely delivered, three-week mindfulness-based intervention (MBI). Participants were assigned to either a mindfulness training group or an active control group that listened to relaxing music. Cognitive outcomes were assessed across episodic source memory, working memory (OSPAN), and inhibitory control (Stroop), alongside spectral EEG recordings. Mindfulness training selectively improved source memory accuracy relative to the control group, with no corresponding gains in item memory. Working memory accuracy improved across both groups, though descriptively more in the mindfulness condition. Stroop performance showed enhanced accuracy-based interference resolution in the mindfulness group, while no differences were found for reaction time. EEG analyses revealed pre–post increases in theta and alpha power, extending into low beta frequencies, particularly at right prefrontal and left parietal sites during the source memory task. These neural changes paralleled behavioral improvements and were more evident in the mindfulness group. EEG data from the working memory task, available only for the mindfulness group, showed similar spectral increases but should be interpreted cautiously due to limited data. No significant EEG effects were observed during the Stroop task. These results support the idea that mindfulness training can improve specific cognitive functions and modulate neural activity in regions associated with attention and memory. The study also provides evidence for the feasibility of remote cognitive-neuroscience research using combined behavioral and EEG methods.