Neurophysiological and Cognitive Effects of Transcendental Meditation: Evidence from EEG Biomarkers and Reaction Time.

Abstract

Background: Transcendental meditation (TM) is broadly trained mind-body intervention for its prospective benefits on physical and mental health. However, evidence exploring its effects on brain connectivity and cognitive performance remains inadequate.

Purpose: This research aimed to evaluate the influence of TM on EEG functional connectivity and audiovisual reaction time in healthy adults.

Methods: This prospective single group study was undertaken after institutional ethical approval among 34 healthy adults aged between 25-50 years who completed a 12-week transcendental meditation intervention (20 minutes/day, 5 days/week). Physiological parameters including pulse rate and blood pressure were recorded using standardized protocols. Neurophysiological assessment was performed using a 32-channel EEG system and functional connectivity was analysed using Weighted Phase Lag Index (WPLI). Cognitive performance was assessed by audio-visual reaction time. Pre-post-intervention differences were analysed using paired t-test and effect sizes were calculated using Cohen's d.

Results: TM practice significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure, along with significant reduction in pulse rate with a small effect size (p = 0.021, d = 0.29). EEG analysis showed increased functional connectivity across fronto-central and occipital regions. Visual and auditory reaction times improved significantly, with the largest effect observed in auditory reaction time.

Conclusion: TM enhances cardiovascular regulation, brain connectivity and cognitive processing speed, reflecting improved neural efficiency and autonomic balance. It may serve as a simple, non-pharmacological approach for improving cognitive performance and well-being.