Knowledge Tree
meditation
synthesized from dimensionsMeditation is a diverse set of mental and physical practices designed to cultivate awareness, emotional regulation, and attentional control. Historically rooted in traditions where it translates to concepts such as the Sanskrit *bhāvana* (cultivation) or the Tibetan *sgoms* (familiarity development) historical Buddhist meditation terms, the practice has evolved into a multifaceted discipline categorized in modern frameworks like S-ART into two primary modalities: focused attention (FA), which is concentrative, and open monitoring (OM), which is receptive S-ART framework.
From a neuroscientific perspective, meditation is characterized as a voluntary hypometabolic state hypometabolic state in meditation. Long-term practice is associated with structural brain changes, including increased cortical thickness increased cortical thickness and larger hippocampal and frontal gray matter volumes larger hippocampal volumes. Functionally, meditation is known to alter the activity and temporal dynamics of the default mode network (DMN) meditation and DMN connectivity, DMN temporal dynamics. These neurological shifts share certain parallels with the effects of psychedelics, particularly regarding reduced activity in the inferior parietal lobule (IPL) and DMN modulation IPL activity parallels.
Physiologically, meditation acts as a tool for calming the nervous system calming the nervous system, consistently demonstrating the ability to lower heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol levels reduced physiological measures, medium effect on lowering cortisol. Clinical research supports its efficacy as a therapeutic intervention for stress management and the reduction of anxiety symptoms meditative therapies reduce anxiety symptoms, though it is generally distinguished from the treatment of clinical disorders. The practice is widely regarded as safe for healthy individuals National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health and is frequently integrated into lifestyle protocols for sleep improvement, inflammation reduction, and homeostatic regulation homeostatic regulation.
Beyond clinical and scientific applications, meditation occupies a significant space in spiritual and esoteric discourse. Practitioners often describe its role in transcending the ego transcends the ego or achieving minimal phenomenal experience minimal phenomenal experience. Some fringe perspectives extend these claims to include the use of meditation for extraterrestrial contact via protocols like CE-5 Disappointment Media. While these esoteric claims are often met with skepticism, they highlight the broad spectrum of human intent behind the practice, ranging from rigorous attentional training attentional expertise to subjective spiritual exploration.
Despite the robust evidence for physiological and neurological benefits, gaps remain in the scientific understanding of meditation. For instance, while practitioners often report enhanced awareness of body sensations, empirical evidence for this specific claim is currently lacking Nielsen/Kaszniak (2006). Furthermore, the distinction between meditation as a state, a trait, or a clinical intervention remains a subject of ongoing study Frontiers in Human Neuroscience. Ultimately, meditation serves as a versatile human technology, bridging the gap between ancient contemplative traditions and modern evidence-based health practices.
Model Perspectives (3)
openrouter/x-ai/grok-4.1-fast definitive 88% confidence
Meditation encompasses practices like focused attention (FA), which is concentrative, and open monitoring (OM), which is receptive, as outlined in the S-ART framework. In Buddhist contexts, it translates terms like Sanskrit 'bhävana' (cultivation) and Tibetan 'sgoms' (familiarity development) historical Buddhist meditation terms. Neuroimaging reveals structural changes from long-term practice, including larger hippocampal and frontal gray matter volumes per Luders et al. (2009) and increased cortical thickness by Lazar et al. (2005) larger hippocampal volumes, increased cortical thickness. Functional effects include altered default mode network (DMN) connectivity, with Brewer et al. (2011) linking experience to DMN differences and Panda et al. (2016) to temporal DMN dynamics during meditation meditation and DMN connectivity, DMN temporal dynamics. Physiological shifts feature hypometabolic states distinct from rest, reduced breathing to 2-3 per minute in samatha per Lazar et al. (2000), and decreased dopamine tone, heart rate, and cortisol as noted by Jevning et al. (1992) hypometabolic state in meditation, reduced physiological measures. Similarities to psychedelics emerge in reduced IPL activity and DMN effects, per Barrett and Griffiths (2017), with Roland Griffiths showing enduring prosocial changes when psilocybin mysticism pairs with meditation IPL activity parallels. Lutz et al. (2008) demonstrate attentional expertise in long-term practitioners, while gaps persist in longitudinal trait measurements for FA/OM attentional expertise. Thomas Metzinger explores its role in minimal phenomenal experience minimal phenomenal experience.
openrouter/x-ai/grok-4.1-fast definitive 85% confidence
Meditation is frequently cited in scientific contexts for inducing physical changes in the body, such as lowering heart rate and blood pressure and improving cognitive performance, according to research summarized by CW Care. A meta-analysis by the American Academy of Family Physicians of 36 randomized controlled trials found that meditative therapies reduce anxiety symptoms, though primarily for symptoms rather than disorders. Reputable health organizations like Harvard Health Publishing, Cleveland Clinic, and Mayo Clinic recommend meditation alongside yoga and deep breathing for reducing stress and inflammation, calming the nervous system, and relaxing the body. It features in lifestyle procedures for hormone balance from Preston's Pharmacy, andropause management from Stony Brook Medicine, PMS relief from Raleigh OB/GYN Centre, and sleep improvement via mindfulness-based stress reduction per Empower Sleep. Neuroimaging studies, including an exploratory fMRI by E. Baron Short et al. in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, show regional brain activation during meditation with time and practice effects, while K. B. Baerentsen et al. investigated brain processes supporting meditation in Cognitive Processing. In spiritual and esoteric claims from Disappointment Media and Sean Boelman, meditation quiets the mind, transcends the ego, and raises vibration for connecting with higher consciousness or extraterrestrials via Steven Greer's CE-5 protocols. Greer, a former ER doctor who studied meditation since his teens per Wikiquote, promotes group events for ET contact through meditation, though met with skepticism. Anneke Lucas integrates meditation in healing trauma, defining it as listening to God and aligning with Paramahansa Yogananda's teachings. Some assert quantum physics validates meditation, per Tarynholz and others from Disappointment Media.
openrouter/x-ai/grok-4.1-fast 88% confidence
Meditation is generally regarded as safe for healthy individuals, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. It serves as an effective coping mechanism for stress management alongside mindfulness, physical activity, and social support, as noted by oxjournal.org. Harvard Health Publishing highlights its role in calming the nervous system via relaxation techniques. A meta-analysis by Rogerson et al. (2023) of 58 studies with 3,508 participants found medium effect on lowering cortisol. Neuroscientific research describes it as a voluntary hypometabolic state per Young and Taylor (1998), with practices progressing from focused attention on breath to open monitoring in the S-ART framework Frontiers in Human Neuroscience. Studies like those by Kabat-Zinn et al. (1998) and Davidson et al. (2003b) show it improves homeostatic regulation and affects brain networks, including deactivation of Default Mode Network nodes Brewer et al. (2011) and interruption of DMN connectivity similar to psychedelics per Frontiers. Emotional sounds during meditation increase pupil diameter and right anterior insular cortex activation Lutz et al. (2008a). However, evidence for enhanced body sensation awareness is lacking despite practitioner reports Nielsen/Kaszniak (2006). Mindfulness, often linked to meditation, is multifaceted as a state, trait, practice, or intervention Frontiers in Human Neuroscience. Some perspectives tie it to fringe uses like extraterrestrial contact via CE-5 protocols Disappointment Media.
Facts (150)
Sources
Self-awareness, self-regulation, and self-transcendence (S-ART) frontiersin.org 52 facts
claimCorrelations between anticorrelated brain networks during meditation may indicate increased integration and volitional control in recruiting networks when contextually appropriate.
claimBreath focus in meditation integrates conscious awareness with ongoing, dynamic viscerosomatic function.
claimThe development of S-ART through meditation is proposed to modulate self-specifying and narrative self-networks through an integrative fronto-parietal control network.
referenceCahn and Polich (2006) reviewed EEG, ERP, and neuroimaging studies regarding meditation states and traits.
referenceTang et al. (2010) found that short-term meditation induces white matter changes in the anterior cingulate, as published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America.
referenceLuders, E., Toga, A. W., Lepore, N., and Gaser, C. (2009) published 'The underlying anatomical correlates of long-term meditation: larger hippocampal and frontal volumes of gray matter' in Neuroimage, volume 45, pages 672–678, asserting that long-term meditation is associated with larger hippocampal and frontal gray matter volumes.
referenceH. S. Hodgins and K. C. Adair published a 2010 article in Consciousness and Cognition titled 'Attentional processes and meditation'.
claimStudies using the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) as a seed have found increased connectivity with the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) and the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) at rest, and increased connectivity with the dorsal ACC during meditation.
referenceIn the historical Buddhist context, the term 'meditation' translates the Sanskrit term 'bhävana' (meaning 'cultivation' or 'causing to become') and the Tibetan term 'sgoms' (meaning 'development of familiarity').
claimWhile research is beginning to demonstrate state effects related to contemplative practices, the trait changes induced by the continued practice of Focused Attention (FA) and Open Monitoring (OM) meditation have not yet been adequately and objectively measured longitudinally.
measurementKjaer et al. (2002) observed increased dopamine tone during meditation-induced changes of consciousness.
referenceManna, A., Raffone, A., Perrucci, M. G., Nardo, D., Ferretti, A., Tartaro, A., et al. (2010) published 'Neural correlates of focused attention and cognitive monitoring in meditation' in Brain Research Bulletin, volume 82, pages 46–56, identifying neural correlates associated with focused attention and cognitive monitoring during meditation.
referenceE. Baron Short, S. Kose, Q. Mu, J. Borckardt, A. Newberg, and M. S. George published the article 'Regional brain activation during meditation shows time and practice effects: an exploratory FMRI study' in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2010.
claimStudies by Delgado et al. (2010), Levenson et al. (2012), and van den Hurk et al. (2010b) have demonstrated that meditation leads to decreased startle amplitude and other low-level bottom-up forms of emotion regulation.
measurementIndividuals with meditation practice times above the median exhibited lower IL-6 and Profile of Mood States (POMS) distress scores following the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST), according to Pace and colleagues (2010).
claimThe hypometabolic state observed during meditation is qualitatively and quantitatively different from simple rest or sleep and may play a role in preventing stress-related hypertension or cardiovascular disease, according to Young and Taylor (1998) and Cahn and Polich (2006).
referenceLazar et al. (2000) conducted functional brain mapping of the relaxation response and meditation, published in Neuroreport.
referenceBrown and Jones (2010) provided electrophysiological evidence that meditation experience predicts less negative appraisal of pain, involving anticipatory neural responses.
referenceLou et al. (1999) conducted a 15O-H2O PET study of meditation and the resting state of normal consciousness, published in Human Brain Mapping.
measurementDuring seated meditation at a middle level of samatha, the breathing rate may drop to two or three breaths per minute, compared to the approximately fifteen breaths per minute observed in normal adults at sea level, as reported by Lazar et al. (2000) and Austin (2006).
claimThe five facets of mindfulness (Observing, Describing, Acting with Awareness, Non-judgement, and Non-reactivity) demonstrate consistent changes in response to meditation training and are associated with symptom improvement.
referenceOtt, Holzel, and Vaitl (2010a) discussed how spiritual practice shapes the brain in the context of brain structure and meditation.
referenceK. B. Baerentsen, H. Stodkilde-Jorgensen, B. Sommerlund, T. Hartmann, J. Damsgaard-Madsen, and M. Fosnaes published the article 'An investigation of brain processes supporting meditation' in the journal Cognitive Processing in 2010.
referenceLutz et al. (2008) demonstrated that long-term meditation practitioners exhibit neural correlates of attentional expertise.
measurementDuring meditation, skin conductivity, oxygen consumption, heart rate, blood pressure, cortisol levels, muscle tone, urinary vanillyl mandelic acid (VMA) levels, and breathing rate all decrease, according to research by Jevning et al. (1992), Benson (2000), Lazar et al. (2005), and Austin (2006).
claimWhile biases of attention and memory related to habitual distortions are proposed to be extinguished and reconsolidated through meditation, the specific dosage and quality of meditation time required for such change remains unclear.
claimThere is no established rule regarding the order of learning meditation practices, whether they must be practiced simultaneously, or if they can be practiced individually to achieve desired resultant states.
referenceLevenson, Ekman, and Ricard (2012) conducted a case study on meditation and the startle response, published in Emotion.
referenceGoleman and Schwartz (1976) studied meditation as an intervention for stress reactivity.
referenceChan and Woollacott (2007) investigated whether the efficiency of executive or orientation networks is improved by the level of meditation experience regarding attentional focus.
claimThe strength of insula activation during meditation is associated with the self-reported intensity of the meditation state for both expert and novice practitioners.
claimMeta-awareness helps determine levels of dullness or excitation during meditation, thereby influencing the phenomenal intensity or clarity of the meditative experience, according to Lutz et al. (2007).
referenceJ. H. Jang, W. H. Jung, D. H. Kang, M. S. Byun, S. J. Kwon, C. H. Choi, et al. published a 2010 study in Neuroscience Letters finding that increased default mode network connectivity is associated with meditation.
claimThe field of contemplative science faces a challenge in disambiguating the concept of mindfulness from common usage and eliminating the 'black box' or singular approach to studying meditation.
claimReceptive forms of meditation, such as Open Monitoring (OM), facilitate diffuse or ambient attentional mechanisms, which likely enhances the phenomenological awareness of objects in conscious experience without necessarily increasing cognitive access.
referenceLutz, A., Slagter, H. A., Dunne, J. D., and Davidson, R. J. (2008b) published 'Attention regulation and monitoring in meditation' in Trends in Cognitive Sciences, volume 12, pages 163–169, which explores mechanisms of attention regulation and monitoring within the context of meditation.
referenceTang et al. (2009) reported that short-term meditation alters the interaction between the central and autonomic nervous systems, as published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America.
claimTraining in Focused Attention (FA), Open Monitoring (OM), and Effortless Presence (EE) styles of meditation is proposed to support a sustainable healthy mind by reducing maladaptive emotions and cognitions (such as lust, greed, anger, hatred, and worry), increasing pro-social dispositions (such as compassion, empathy, and forgiveness), reducing attachments to thoughts and feelings, and removing biases inherent in habitual cognition.
referenceThe S-ART framework focuses on two core meditation practices: focused attention (FA), which is a concentrative practice, and open monitoring (OM), which is a receptive practice.
referenceLutz, A., Dunne, J. D., and Davidson, R. J. (2007) published 'Meditation and the neuroscience of consciousness' in the Cambridge Handbook of Consciousness, pages 499–555, which discusses the intersection of meditation and consciousness research.
referenceLazar et al. (2005) found that meditation experience is associated with increased cortical thickness, as published in Neuroreport.
measurementThe presentation of emotional sounds during meditation is associated with increased pupil diameter and increased activation of the right anterior insular cortex (AIC) compared to rest, according to Lutz et al. (2008a).
referenceYoung and Taylor (1998) described meditation as a voluntary hypometabolic state of biological activation in News in Physiological Sciences.
claimMindfulness is defined in four ways: (1) A temporary state of non-judgmental, non-reactive, present-centered attention and awareness cultivated during meditation; (2) An enduring trait described as a dispositional pattern of cognition, emotion, or behavioral tendency; (3) A meditation practice; (4) An intervention.
claimStudies by Kabat-Zinn et al. (1998), Davidson et al. (2003b), Smith (2004), Carlson et al. (2007), and Pace et al. (2010) indicate that meditation improves homeostatic regulation and the effective allocation of inflammatory responses in both novice meditators and individuals with major disease diagnoses.
procedureThe progression of meditation practice within the S-ART framework involves the following steps: (1) stabilize the mind and decrease mental proliferation (rumination) by developing a fully absorbed state of concentration on an object like the breath using focused attention (FA); (2) move on to open monitoring (OM) and other advanced receptive practices that have no object of focus and are receptive to all physical and mental phenomena that arise.
claimJosipovic, Dinstein, Weber, and Heeger (2011) studied the influence of meditation on anti-correlated networks in the brain.
claimThe authors of the S-ART framework assert that the common practice of 'cherry picking' aspects of meditation practices to include in clinical interventions or education curricula and labeling them 'mindfulness' poses conceptual dangers for scientific investigation if the term is not qualified in its specific context.
referenceRaffone and Srinivasan (2010) explored the role of meditation within the neuroscience of attention and consciousness in their paper 'The exploration of meditation in the neuroscience of attention and consciousness'.
claimElectromyography studies by Austin (2006) have revealed that meditators maintain muscle relaxation despite maintaining an upright, unsupported posture during meditation.
claimThere is a lack of strong evidence supporting the claim that meditation practitioners have enhanced awareness of body sensations, despite many practitioners reporting such enhancement, as noted by Nielsen and Kaszniak (2006) and Khalsa et al. (2008).
claimMindfulness is defined as a state, trait, process, type of meditation, and intervention that has proven beneficial for psychological disorders and general stress reduction.
CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE FIFTH KIND -- A Ridiculous ... disappointmentmedia.com Apr 7, 2020 34 facts
claimDana M Soule claims that scientific studies have demonstrated that meditation can induce physical changes in the human body.
claimUFOs are real, and because they are likely advanced, older lifeforms, they would prefer to communicate with humans who practice meditation and possess higher states of consciousness.
claimRecent scientific studies indicate that meditation can induce physical changes in the human body.
claimMeditation allows individuals to quiet their minds and transcend their egos.
claimThe CE-5 initiative utilizes meditation as a method for individuals to make personal contact with extraterrestrials.
perspectiveSteven Greer's methods for contacting extraterrestrials, which involve meditation, are viewed with skepticism by some observers.
claimThe CE-5 (Close Encounters of the Fifth Kind) method involves raising one's vibration through meditation to reach higher-dimensional beings on higher frequencies, allowing them to locate the practitioner.
claimMeditation is scientifically proven to provide various benefits to people.
claimHgk asserts that involuntary movements or sounds occurring during deep energy work or meditation are a scientific process of trauma leaving the body.
perspectiveScott claims that the documentary 'Close Encounters of the Fifth Kind' captures a deeper reality that is accessible through meditation and internal inquiry.
claimScientists are finding that meditation and Eastern spiritual practices are being validated by findings in quantum physics.
claimRecent scientific studies into meditation indicate that individuals can induce physical changes in their bodies through the skill of meditation.
perspectiveAn anonymous commenter asserts that human mistrust and misinformation are the result of generations of brainwashing, and that truth is found through deep meditation.
perspectiveA viewer who identifies as a Christian suggests that the entities encountered through meditation principles should be tested and authenticated, citing Jesus Christ's examples of validating deception.
claimTarynholz asserts that scientific research into quantum physics is increasingly validating concepts found in meditation, Eastern religions, and spiritual practices.
perspectiveThe anonymous author of the comment argues that meditation allows individuals to transcend their egos and connect with their 'real' selves, which they distinguish from an 'illusory self' created by materialism and societal expectations.
claimMelonie Montanaro asserts that Steven Greer uses meditation to raise his vibration to reach higher-dimensional beings on higher frequencies, who then respond to his location.
procedureSteven Greer's method for contacting extraterrestrial beings involves raising one's vibration through meditation to reach higher dimensional beings on higher frequencies, allowing them to locate the practitioner.
claimThe anonymous commenter asserts that extraterrestrial lifeforms prefer to communicate with humans who meditate and possess higher states of awareness and consciousness because they are perceived as a lesser threat.
claimThe term 'Encounters of the Fifth Kind' refers to making personal contact with extraterrestrials through meditation, rather than observing UFOs in the sky.
claimTarynholz defines 'Encounters of the 5th Kind' as making personal contact with extraterrestrials through meditation, rather than observing UFOs in the sky.
claimThe anonymous author of the comment claims that UFOs are real and represent lifeforms that are more advanced and older than humans, suggesting these entities prefer to communicate with individuals who practice meditation and possess higher states of consciousness.
claimTarynholz claims that modern science, specifically quantum physics, is validating the efficacy of meditation and Eastern spiritual practices.
claimMeditation allows individuals to quiet their minds, transcend their egos, and override the 'monkey brain' to connect with their authentic selves.
claimInvoluntary movements or sounds occurring during deep energy work or meditation are interpreted by some practitioners as trauma leaving the body.
procedureThe method for contacting higher-dimensional beings involves raising one's vibration through meditation to reach higher frequencies, which allows the beings to locate the individual on a map and respond.
perspectiveHgk claims that Steven Greer's methods are a simple form of meditation rather than summoning aliens.
claim'Encounters of the 5th Kind' (CE-5) is defined as making personal contact with extraterrestrials through meditation, rather than simply observing UFOs in the sky.
claimTarynholz claims that meditation is scientifically proven to help people in various ways.
claimTarynholz observes that scientists are finding that meditation, Eastern religions, and spiritual practices are being validated by modern quantum physics.
claimMindfulness is a form of meditation that expands consciousness and awareness.
perspectiveA defender of Steven Greer's meditation practices describes them as a simple form of meditation intended to increase awareness and connect to a larger picture, rather than summoning extraterrestrials.
perspectiveHgk argues that the practices promoted by Steven Greer are a simple form of meditation and energy work, and that involuntary movements or sounds during these sessions are a scientific process of trauma leaving the body.
perspectiveScott believes the documentary Close Encounters of the Fifth Kind is compelling and that the reviewer lacks meditation experience and self-awareness.
The Mechanisms of Psychedelic Visionary Experiences - Frontiers frontiersin.org Sep 27, 2017 11 facts
quoteBarrett and Griffiths (2017) stated: “Decreased activity in the IPL (and specifically in the angular gyrus), and decreased communication between the IPL and other areas involved in maintaining a sense of self (such as the PCC) are observed both in studies of meditation and in studies of classic hallucinogens.”
claimBarrett and Griffiths (2017) proposed that the similarities between meditation and psychedelics regarding their effects on brain systems involve key areas of the Default Mode Network (DMN).
claimEnhanced attentional processes in meditation result in the deafferentation of input from systems like the environment, causing certain neural structures to gain independence from normal input and fire according to their own internal logic or pattern.
referenceBrewer et al. (2011) found that meditation experience is associated with differences in default mode network activity and connectivity, as published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America.
claimMandell (1980) proposed that a general physiological mechanism underlies transcendent states, which is evoked by various drugs, physiological conditions, and procedures like hypnosis and meditation, resulting in the loss of serotonin inhibition of hippocampal cells.
claimPanda et al. (2016) found that temporal dynamics of the default mode network characterize meditation-induced alterations in consciousness.
referenceThe major types of meditation techniques, specifically Concentration, Loving-Kindness, and Choiceless Awareness, produce a relative deactivation in the main nodes of the Default Mode Network (DMN) in experienced meditators, according to a 2011 study by Brewera et al.
claimDietrich (2003) proposed that the alteration of consciousness through the disruption of normal control processes is associated with endurance running, dreaming, hypnosis, drug-induced states, and meditation, due to the deregulation of higher-order functions of the prefrontal cortex.
claimThe interruption of the Default Mode Network (specifically the posterior cingulate cortex) by meditation, hypnosis, and epilepsy necessitates a general explanation for psychedelic effects within the broader context of altered consciousness.
claimVisionary experiences produced by psychedelics, meditation, hypnosis, and pathological conditions like epilepsy share similarities, suggesting a need for a general model to explain these states.
claimPsychedelics, meditation, hypnosis, and epilepsy all cause an interruption of ordinary brain control processes by compromising the integrity of the Default Mode Network (DMN) and its connectivity with other brain areas, particularly the prefrontal cortex (PFC).
Classification Schemes of Altered States of Consciousness - ORBi orbi.uliege.be 7 facts
referenceThomas Metzinger explored minimal phenomenal experience, specifically focusing on meditation, tonic alertness, and the phenomenology of 'pure' consciousness, in a 2020 article published in Philosophy of Mind and Science.
referenceK. Thomas published 'Meditation in Forschung und Erfahrung, in weltweiter Beobachtung und praktischer Anleitung' (Meditation in Research and Experience, in Global Observation and Practical Guidance) in 1973.
referenceMillière, Carhart-Harris, Roseman, Trautwein, and Berkovich-Ohana explored the relationship between psychedelics, meditation, and self-consciousness in a 2018 article published in Frontiers in Psychology.
referenceLinares Gutiérrez et al. (2022) published a study in the journal Biology examining changes in subjective time perception and the sense of self during meditation.
referenceLaukkonen and Slagter (2021) published 'From many to (n)one: meditation and the plasticity of the predictive mind' in Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews.
referenceTimmermann et al. published a neurophenomenological approach to non-ordinary states of consciousness, specifically covering hypnosis, meditation, and psychedelics, in Trends in Cognitive Sciences in 2023.
referenceMoujaes et al. (2023) compare the neural correlates of consciousness across different states, specifically examining psychedelics, hypnosis, and meditation.
Implications for Mental Health and Coping Strategies | OxJournal oxjournal.org Aug 12, 2024 4 facts
claimEffective coping strategies for reducing stress and advancing mental health include mindfulness, meditation, and the cultivation of encouraging social networks.
claimEffective coping methods for managing stress and promoting wellbeing include mindfulness, meditation, physical activity, and social support.
claimMindfulness, meditation, physical activity, and social support are effective coping mechanisms for managing stress and maintaining mental health.
measurementRogerson et al. (2023) conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 58 studies involving 3,508 participants, which found that mindfulness and meditation have a medium-sized positive effect (effect size of 0.345) in lowering cortisol levels.
ContentKeyPoints.com - Inside a Global Pedophile Ring sites.google.com 3 facts
claimAnneke Lucas utilizes spiritual practices, including yoga and meditation, as part of her healing modality to address trauma, power dynamics, and unmet emotional needs.
claimAnneke Lucas asserts that the teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda combine original Christianity with original yoga, which she defines as meditation rather than physical exercise.
claimAnneke Lucas utilized spiritual practices, including meditation, as a pivotal component of her recovery process from trauma.
Exploring “lucid sleep” and altered states of consciousness using ... philosophymindscience.org Jan 7, 2025 2 facts
referenceAtaria, Dor-Ziderman, and Berkovich-Ohana (2015) conducted a case study of a long-term mindfulness meditator to understand the feeling of lacking a sense of boundaries, published in Consciousness and Cognition.
accountIn a case series study, researchers examined four individuals who reported lucid sleep episodes in a controlled laboratory setting using a novel induction method that combines pre-sleep meditation and visual stimulation.
Steven M. Greer - Wikiquote en.wikiquote.org 2 facts
accountSteven Greer is a former emergency room doctor who studied meditation, Sanskrit, the use of mantras, and the ritual of pujas starting in his teenage years.
accountSteven Greer is a former emergency room doctor who studied meditation, Sanskrit, the use of mantras, and the ritual of pujas starting in his teenage years.
Consciousness studies : cross-cultural perspectives - Internet Archive archive.org Jul 23, 2023 2 facts
referenceThe book 'Consciousness studies: cross-cultural perspectives' includes a section titled 'When East and West Meet: The Case of Meditation' and a section titled 'Confluence of Two Streams: East-West Sangamam'.
referenceThe book 'Consciousness studies: cross-cultural perspectives' examines the intersection of Eastern and Western traditions through the study of meditation and the concept of 'East-West Sangamam', which refers to the confluence of the two streams of thought.
Documentary Review: Meditating meetings with E.T. - Movie Nation rogersmovienation.com Apr 14, 2020 2 facts
claimDr. Steven Greer, a former emergency room physician in Lenoir, North Carolina, claims that he and his followers can use meditation to summon trans-dimensional alien spacecraft.
claimDr. Steven Greer claims that he and his followers can summon trans-dimensional alien spacecraft through meditation.
Andropause Explained: Why Men 40+ Should Talk About Hormones ... health.stonybrookmedicine.edu Nov 12, 2025 2 facts
procedureRecommended lifestyle steps to manage andropause symptoms include adopting a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables; engaging in regular strength training, cardio, and flexibility exercises; practicing stress management techniques like mindfulness or meditation; and considering medical interventions like testosterone replacement therapy if recommended by a healthcare provider.
claimChronic stress can exacerbate hormonal imbalances, so practicing mindfulness, meditation, or other relaxation techniques is recommended to keep stress levels in check.
#17 — ”Global Workspace Theory… - Consciousness and the Brain podcasts.apple.com Nov 22, 2021 2 facts
perspectiveBernard Baars and Alea Skwara suggest that combining brain recordings with phenomenological interviews during meditation is a promising approach for future research into consciousness.
claimAlea Skwara is a PhD candidate at the University of California, Davis, whose research focuses on cognitive neuroscience, specifically compassion and responses to suffering, including whether meditation can expand the range of people for whom a person feels compassion.
What is Inflammation? Causes, Effects, Treatment - Harvard Health health.harvard.edu Mar 27, 2023 2 facts
The Profound Interplay Between Sleep and Cognitive Function creyos.com Aug 14, 2025 2 facts
claimChronic stress can interfere with sleep, but techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and other relaxation exercises can help calm the mind before bed.
claimTechniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and other relaxation exercises can help calm the mind before bed and mitigate the sleep-interfering effects of chronic stress, according to Rusch et al. (2018).
Diagnosis and Management of Generalized Anxiety Disorder ... - AAFP aafp.org May 1, 2015 1 fact
claimA meta-analysis of 36 randomized controlled trials on meditation showed that meditative therapies reduce anxiety symptoms, though most studies examined anxiety symptoms rather than anxiety disorders.
Understanding the Difference Between Men & Women Hormones prestonspharmacy.com Jan 13, 2026 1 fact
procedureLifestyle changes to balance hormones include eating a diet of whole foods rich in nutrients, healthy fats, and lean protein; engaging in regular physical activity to regulate insulin and cortisol; practicing stress management techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to reduce cortisol; and obtaining quality sleep to support the regulation of melatonin and growth hormone.
Psychedelics and Consciousness: Distinctions, Demarcations, and ... ouci.dntb.gov.ua 1 fact
claimRoland Griffiths found that psilocybin-occasioned mystical-type experiences, when combined with meditation and other spiritual practices, produce enduring positive changes in psychological functioning and trait measures of prosocial attitudes and behaviors.
Overview of Anxiety Disorders - Psychiatry - MSD Manuals msdmanuals.com 1 fact
claimRelaxation techniques, such as muscle relaxation, breathing management, yoga, hypnosis, and meditation, should be taught early in the treatment of anxiety disorders to help patients control anxiety, as treatment can transiently intensify disabling thoughts and feelings.
Stress: Its Negative Impact on Your Mental & Physical Health cwcare.net Jun 7, 2023 1 fact
claimResearch has shown that meditation can be helpful in lowering heart rate and blood pressure, and improving cognitive performance.
Understanding the Menstrual Cycle: A Breakdown of Its Four Phases raleighob.com Jan 15, 2025 1 fact
procedureTo manage PMS symptoms, individuals can use over-the-counter pain relievers, engage in light exercise, and practice stress-reducing techniques like yoga or meditation.
Long-Term Effects of Chronic Sleep Deprivation empowersleep.com Mar 15, 2023 1 fact
claimMindfulness-based stress reduction techniques, such as meditation, improve sleep quality in adults with sleep disturbances.
PBD Podcast - "Trained As A Spy At 10” - Sex Trafficking Survivor ... podscripts.co Nov 25, 2024 1 fact
claimAnneke Lucas defines prayer as 'speaking to God' and meditation as 'listening to God,' noting that specific meditation techniques are intended to bring energy back into the spine and brain.
Effective Anxiety Management: Evidence-Based Approaches reachlink.com Nov 29, 2025 1 fact
procedureResearch-backed self-help strategies for managing anxiety include eating nutritious foods, practicing relaxation exercises, adopting a more restful sleep schedule, exercising more frequently, taking up meditation, and spending more time in nature.
Quest For Love: Memoir of a Child Sex Slave (2022) unbekoming.substack.com Jul 11, 2025 1 fact
accountAnneke Lucas's healing journey involved meditation, divine connection, and gradual memory integration to transform devastating experiences into wisdom and compassion for serving others.
Altered State of Consciousness | Springer Nature Link link.springer.com Sep 17, 2025 1 fact
claimAltered states of consciousness can be induced by hypnosis, meditation, and psychoactive medications, or occur naturally through sleep and dreaming.
Addressing Chronic Stress in Therapy | Psychology Today psychologytoday.com May 8, 2024 1 fact
claimMindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, and deep breathing, help clients reduce physical tension and mitigate the effects of stress.
Stress: What It Is, Symptoms, Management & Prevention my.clevelandclinic.org May 15, 2024 1 fact
claimRelaxation activities such as meditation, yoga, tai chi, breathing exercises, and muscle relaxation are recommended strategies to keep stress at bay.
Documentary Review: 'Close Encounters Of The Fifth Kind' redcarpetcrash.com Apr 7, 2020 1 fact
claimDr. Steven Greer's group events involve believers gathering to experience extraterrestrial encounters, with a focus on Universal consciousness, including ESP and meditation.
A Double-Edged Sword: Inflammation and Your Health - Cedars-Sinai cedars-sinai.org Feb 12, 2021 1 fact
claimA healthy lifestyle to reduce inflammatory load includes exercising, eating a whole-food, plant-based diet that limits sugar and saturated fat, and practicing stress-reduction strategies like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing.
The Montreal model: an integrative biomedical-psychedelic ... frontiersin.org 1 fact
referenceA 2018 study by Griffiths, Johnson, Richards, Richards, Jesse, MacLean, Barrett, Cosimano, and Klinedinst published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that psilocybin-occasioned mystical-type experiences, when combined with meditation and other spiritual practices, produce enduring positive changes in psychological functioning and trait measures of prosocial attitudes and behaviors.
Understanding Stress - Causes, Effects and Management Tips store.mayoclinic.com Nov 25, 2024 1 fact
claimRelaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation can help calm the mind and relax the body to reduce stress.
Stress Management: Meditation, Relaxation, Health Benefits my.clevelandclinic.org Apr 27, 2021 1 fact
claimMindfulness, meditation, massage, and deep breathing exercises can lower heart rate and calm the mind.
Chronic Inflammation - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf ncbi.nlm.nih.gov 1 fact
claimYoga and meditation are helpful in alleviating stress-induced inflammation and its harmful effects on the body.
Mind and Body Approaches for Stress and Anxiety - nccih nccih.nih.gov 1 fact
claimMeditation is generally considered to be safe for healthy people.
Cognitive Stress Management Therapy | CBT for Stress cognitivetherapynyc.com 1 fact
claimCommon behavioral techniques for managing stress include diaphragmatic breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, meditation, relaxation, mindfulness practices, autogenic training, and visualizations.
Close Encounters, Fifth Kind, Just Missed Contact | Mind Matters mindmatters.ai May 30, 2020 1 fact
claimThe author of the Mind Matters article interprets Steven Greer's theory of consciousness as implying that meditation is a method for humans to achieve contact with extraterrestrial beings.
Understanding chronic inflammation: Causes, symptoms and ... uhc.com 1 fact
procedureMethods to manage stress and potentially reduce inflammation include laughter, meditation, practicing yoga, engaging in relaxing hobbies like reading or listening to music, and spending time with family and friends.