Large-Scale Functional Brain Network Reorganization During Taoist Meditation.

Meditation induces a distinct and reversible mental state that provides insights into brain correlates of consciousness. We explored brain network changes related to meditation by graph theoretical analysis of resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data. Eighteen Taoist meditators with varying levels of expertise were scanned using a within-subjects counterbalanced design during resting and meditation states.

Detection of nighttime melatonin level in Chinese Original Quiet Sitting.

Background/purpose: Some research has shown that melatonin levels increase after meditation practices, but other research has shown that they do not. In our previous functional magnetic resonance imaging study, we found positive activation of the pineal body during Chinese Original Quiet Sitting (COQS). To find other supporting evidence for pineal activation, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of COQS on nighttime melatonin levels.

Studies of chinese original quiet sitting by using functional magnetic resonance imaging.

Since different meditations may activate different regions in brain, we can use functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate it. Chinese original quiet sitting is mainly one kind of traditional Chinese meditation. It contains two different parts: a short period of keeping phrase and intake spiritual energy, and a long period of relaxation with no further action.

Comparison of fMRI BOLD Effect and Arterial Pulsation Harmonic Distribution among Different Breathing Rate.

The phenomenon of respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) had been studied since 1733. Most researches were focused on the heart rates or blood pressure variability. It was well known that heart rate variability (HRV) induced by respiration decreased progressively with age.

Comparison of fMRI BOLD Effect and Arterial Pulsation Harmonic Distribution among Different Breathing Rate.

The phenomenon of respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) had been studied since 1733. Most researches were focused on the heart rates or blood pressure variability. It was well known that heart rate variability (HRV) induced by respiration decreased progressively with age.