Neural dynamics of mindfulness training: A longitudinal EEG network analysis of focused attention and open monitoring meditation

Abstract Neural oscillatory activity within the alpha and theta bands have long been considered putative markers of state mindfulness, yet understanding of their functional role has been limited by the challenges of linking objective brain indices with subjective experience. To address this gap, the current study applied longitudinal network analysis to a unique dataset from 16 novices who completed up to 24 laboratory training sessions of both focused attention (FA) and open monitoring (OM) meditation, during which both EEG and self-report measures of state mindfulness quality were collected. This approach enabled the parsimonious characterization of both cross-lagged temporal (across-session) and contemporaneous (within-session) influences of regional spectral power on state mindfulness. The analysis revealed distinguishable neurophenomenological network structures for each practice, providing data-driven support for their theoretical differentiation. These distinctions emerged alongside shared commonalities to both practices, including strong autoregressive effects for state mindfulness, consistent with training-related skill acquisition, and opposing regional influences of frontal versus posterior alpha power. Taken together, these findings challenge monolithic interpretations of meditation-related EEG activity, advancing a more nuanced neurophenomenological approach wherein the functional significance of neural activity is dynamically situated within the specific type and time course of training.