EEG patterns in long-term Brahmakumari meditators and their possible significance

Abstract

Background: Yoga and meditation are associated with improvement in both physical and mental health. Brahmakumari meditation is concerned with awareness of the metaphysical self with reorientating thought patterns and feelings so one can live with positive thinking, greater harmony, and contentment. EEG gives meaningful insight about the state of mind of an individual. Aims and Objectives: The present study was designed to review the effects of meditation on the state of mind based on changing EEG brainwave patterns in long-term Brahmakumari meditators. Materials and Methods: Fifteen Brahmakumari meditators aged between 30 and 50 years who were involved in regular meditation for >10 years and with no history of any neurological disorders were enrolled. Twenty-one channels EEG with EKG and EMG were recorded in all subjects during pre-meditative, meditative, and post-meditative state at an interval of 20 min. Qualitative EEG was analyzed for the appearance of wave patterns based on different voltages and frequencies. Results: High voltage alpha rhythm was observed in the majority of subjects during pre-meditation and theta waves in most subjects during meditation. During meditation, their minds progress further to a deep state of calmness and relaxation as indicated by the appearance of theta waves. Even delta waves were observed during meditation in some of the subjects indicating a phase similar to a deep sleep. Conclusion: Stress and mental unrest are major problem in the present era which is responsible for many non-communicable diseases. Regular meditation is a very important de-stressor and should be regularly practiced to lead a happy and peaceful life.