From alpha to gamma: Electrophysiological correlates of meditation-related states of consciousness.

Abstract: Meditation practice is difficult to access because of its countless forms of appearances originating
from the complexity of cultures it has to serve. This makes a suitable categorization for scientific use almost impossi-
ble. However, empirical data suggest that different forms of meditation show similar steps of development in terms of
their neurophysiological correlates. Some electrophysiological alterations can be observed on the beginner/student
level, which are closely related to non-meditative processes. Others seem to correspond to an advanced/expert level,
and seem to be unique for meditation-related states of consciousness. Meditation is one possibility to specialize
brain/mind functions using the brain\'s immanent neural plasticity. This plasticity is probably recruited by certain EEG
patterns observed during or as a result of meditation, for instance, synchronized gamma oscillations. While meditation
formerly has been understood to comprise mainly passive relaxation states, recent EEG findings suggest that medita-
tion is associated with active states which involve cognitive restructuring and learning. Copyright © 2010. Published
by Elsevier Ltd.