Brain and Mindfulness

The Impact of Meditation Practice on Attention and Emotion Regulation :Studies on Neural Correlation in Brain Imagery and Biomarkers of Stress and Inflammation

The main aim of this project is to explore the neuro-anatomical and -physiological correlates of meditation on attention and emotion-regulation. By investigating this, our scientific goal is to more generally identify the mechanisms and biomarkers of health and mental well-being. Therefore, the investigators use non-invasive imaging like Magneto-EncephaloGraphy (MEG), ElectroEncephaloGraphy (EEG), functional and anatomic Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI; including Diffusion tensor - DTI). These brain measures will then be linked to behavioral measurements. Experimental methods (i.e., simple computer tasks) will be used to measure attention, conscious perception and regulation of pain and emotion.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age : 25-70
• Being affiliated to a social security system.
• Motivated to participate in this study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Medication acting on the central nervous system
• Opioids, Antidepressive Agents.
• Actual or previous neurological or psychiatric illnesses
• Chronic pain or any other medical condition which is related to pain or an increased sensitivity to pain.
• Not having a personal or family history of epilepsy
• Alcohol or drugs consumption 2 days before or during the study.