Mindfulness-based Neurofeedback: A Systematic Review of EEG and fMRI studies
bioRxiv – September 12, 2024
Source: medRxiv/bioRxiv/arXiv
Summary
Neurofeedback combined with mindfulness meditation shows promise for enhancing mental health by influencing brain activity. A review of EEG and fMRI studies found that while neurofeedback can reduce activity in key brain networks, the positive effects on mental well-being are not yet fully confirmed. Overall, this approach holds exciting potential for future therapeutic applications.
Abstract
Neurofeedback concurrent with mindfulness meditation may reveal meditation effects on the brain and facilitate improved mental health outcomes. Here, we systematically reviewed EEG and fMRI studies of mindfulness meditation with neurofeedback (mbNF) and followed PRISMA guidelines. We identified 10 fMRI reports, consisting of 177 unique participants, and 9 EEG reports, consisting of 242 participants. Studies of fMRI focused primarily on downregulating the default-mode network (DMN). Although studies found decreases in DMN activations during neurofeedback, there is a lack of evidence for transfer effects, and the majority of studies did not employ adequate controls, e.g. sham neurofeedback. Accordingly, DMN decreases may have been confounded by general task-related deactivation. EEG studies typically examined alpha, gamma, and theta frequency bands, with the most robust evidence supporting the modulation of theta band activity. Both EEG and fMRI mbNF have been implemented with high fidelity in clinical populations. However, the mental health benefits of mbNF have not been established. In general, mbNF studies would benefit from sham-controlled RCTs, as well as clear reporting (e.g. CRED-NF).