Pilot fMRI-EEG study of tantric meditation in Tibetan monks

Meditation in Tibetan monks alters brain functional connectivity and electrical rhythms. In a pilot study, three monks underwent fMRI and EEG while meditating using Buddhist techniques of focused attention and mental imagery dissolution. Compared to rest, meditation changed connectivity in the default mode, salience, and sensorimotor networks. EEG showed increased alpha and decreased delta rhythms. Joint analysis linked brain activity to these rhythm changes. The results suggest meditation can significantly influence brain function and may have neurotherapeutic potential for cognitive and emotional health.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This pilot study aimed to investigate brain functional activity and connectivity using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG) in Tibetan monks during meditation. The meditative practice was based on Buddhist techniques requiring focused attention and the “dissolution” of mental imagery. Three monks participated in the experiment, two of whom underwent two meditation sessions. Data analysis revealed changes in the connectivity of the default mode network, salience network, and sensorimotor network during meditation compared to the resting state. An increase in alpha rhythm and a decrease in delta rhythm (EEG) were observed. Joint fMRI-EEG analysis identified a relationship between brain activity and the dynamics of alpha and delta rhythms. The results indicate that meditation significantly influences brain activity and may serve as a neurotherapeutic technique to enhance cognitive and psycho-emotional functions.