Potential role of self-induced EEG fast oscillations in predisposition to seizures in meditators

Epilepsy Behav. 2010 Jan;17(1):124-5. doi: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2009.10.022. Epub 2009 Nov 20.

Abstract

Meditation is a mental exercise practiced widely as an antistress measure and in the belief that it possesses remedial efficacy for a number of medical ailments, especially neurological disorders. Further, there is a general belief that meditation is an absolutely safe practice devoid of any harmful effects. However, with the advent of neuroimaging techniques, the possibility of adverse effects has been raised in recent times. One such issue that has been debated is the potential epileptogenic versus antiepileptic influence exerted by meditation. This brief article attempts to study the potential role of meditation-induced EEG fast oscillations in the predisposition to seizures in meditation practitioners with epilepsy.

MeSH terms

  • Causality
  • Electroencephalography* / methods
  • Humans
  • Mind-Body Relations, Metaphysical
  • Negotiating / methods*
  • Reaction Time / physiology
  • Seizures / physiopathology*
  • Seizures / rehabilitation*