Exploring the Silent Mind: All Here at IPEG 2024
At the recent International Pharmaco-EEG (IPEG) Society’s Conference in Turkey, the All Here Meditation Institute had the honor of sharing groundbreaking research that is reshaping how we understand meditation and the brain. This exciting event, held at Izmir University of Economics from November 21–24, 2024, brought together experts from around the world to discuss the latest advancements in neuroscience and meditation science.
Dr. Chuong Ngo, alongside Frank Zanow of ANT Neuro, presented findings from their exploration into the brain activity of advanced meditators, individuals with over 20 years of dedicated practice. Their research focuses on two profound meditative traditions: Silence Meditation and Jhana Meditation. The results were nothing short of remarkable.
Using advanced EEG technology, the team uncovered how meditation transforms the brain:
Alpha wave suppression in the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) was identified as a key marker of the transition from relaxation to a deeply focused and awakened state of consciousness.
During Silence Meditation, even with eyes closed, alpha activity dropped to levels typically seen when eyes are open. This suggests an intense engagement with the inner world, almost like “seeing” with the mind’s eye.
The depth of alpha suppression appears to define the quality and intensity of advanced meditative states, offering a measurable way to assess the power of silence-based practices.
These findings highlight the profound shifts in consciousness that come with advanced meditation, providing fresh insights into what it means to experience The Silent Mind.
This research was made possible by the incredible efforts of our team: Dr. Chuong Ngo, Dr. Lionel Newman, Prof. Christoph Michel, Monika Stasytytė, Dr. Frank Zanow, and Erkin Bek. We are deeply thankful to The Samatha Trust for allowing us to study the brain activity of their expert Theravada Buddhist practitioners, whose practices were instrumental in revealing these insights.
The insights gained at IPEG 2024 are just the beginning. As we deepen our understanding of meditation’s impact on the brain, we are paving the way for new approaches to mental clarity, focus, and well-being. These findings not only enrich the scientific community but also inspire all of us to explore the transformative power of meditation. Stay tuned as we continue to explore the incredible phenomenon of The Silent Mind and bring the science of meditation closer to everyone.
