Effects of Heart Rate Oscillations During Meditation on Plasma Biomarkers of Alzheimer's Disease

Effects of Heart Rate Oscillations During Meditation on Plasma Biomarkers of Alzheimer's Disease

In the current study, we will examine how two types of concentration meditation practices affect plasma biomarkers of Alzheimer's Disease (AD). We will also examine the effects of the two types of meditation practices on emotional well-being and episodic memory. Healthy adults aged 18-35 who meet all eligibility criteria will be invited to this study. Participants will be asked to engage in one week of daily meditation practice or no-intervention control task at home. They will also be asked to visit the lab twice, once before and once after the intervention, to provide blood samples to assess plasma biomarkers of AD and to complete emotion questionnaires and a memory test.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Fluent in English
• Aged between 18-35 years old
• Agree to provide blood samples
• Healthy adults who weigh at least 110 pounds
• Agree to devote 40 minutes daily to this study for a week

Exclusion Criteria:

• Have a disorder that would affect heart rhythm or function (e.g., abnormal cardiac rhythm, dyspnea, heart disease including coronary artery disease, angina and arrhythmia)
• Regularly practicing any relaxation, meditation or yoga that involve breathing focused practices lasting for more than an hour each week