Brain Over Mind, Mind Over Brain: Cognitive Strategies for Regulating Brain Activity

Abstract

Research and results: This study examines how meditation affects the brain utilizing fMRI, EEG-fMRI, machine learning, AI, molecular profiling, optogenetics, animal models, and clinical trials. It examines how meditation affects brain oscillations, connection patterns, and neurofeedback mechanisms and its therapeutic potential in Alzheimer's, epilepsy, Parkinson's, migraines, chronic pain, and mental health issues. Meditation increases brain structure, gray matter density, cortical thickness, and information processing speed. Meditation affects neurotransmitters, hormones, and the autonomic nervous system, regulating mood, attention, immunological function, and inflammation. Focus, emotion regulation, empathy, communal bonding, reduced inflammation, enhanced productivity, and illness mitigation are also discussed in meditation. Aim: This study endeavors to inform mental health patients and healthcare providers about the benefits of meditation as a therapy for mental diseases. Methods and tools: A professional psychologist who self-healed from schizophrenia found that meditation may help. Personal experience and literature evaluation inform the research, which includes peer-reviewed papers and empirical research. Psychology ethics provide anonymity and informed consent in the study. The data confirm meditation's therapeutic and mental health effects. Conclusion: The study advances meditation science and lays the groundwork for mental health clinical trials.