MBSR marks by less chaotic electronic activity in both brain and heart

Abstract

Mindfulness-based stress reduction has been shown to promote mental health and actively quiet the mind from turbulent thoughts. This preliminary study aimed to explore the corresponding change from a neuroscientific perspective. 11 subjects were recruited at the beginning and after a standard MBSR course MBSR. The MAAS questionnaire showed slightly difference although not significant before and after the MBSR training. At the same time, no difference in EEG was found before and after the MBSR training. Nonetheless, we repeatedly found higher alpha wave and beta1 wave amplitude, and lower amplitude of delta, theta and gamma wave during MBSR when compared to close-eye normal rest. Additionally, the entropy of whole brain EEG decreased together with lower heart rate and heart-rate variability during MBSR. Short-term MBSR may not change the MAAS and practice dramatically, however, there is solid evidence the during MBSR meditation, the alpha-wave increased together with decreased gamma wave. The whole brain entropy decreased and heart rate is lower. It is suggested that MBSR can set the brain at an less turbulent state, while a short-term MBSR may not change the rest-state with closed eye.