Focused Attention Meditation
Focused Attention Meditation is a meditation practice studied in relation to mental and emotional outcomes, including attention, cognition, mood, anxiety, and stress resilience. Research includes randomized trials, but the findings do not establish that the practice reliably produces these outcomes.
Research on this meditation practice spans emotional wellbeing and cognitive function, with stress resilience another area of interest.
Part of Meditation
Overview
Focused Attention Meditation is a meditation practice studied in relation to mental and emotional outcomes, including attention, cognition, mood, anxiety, and stress resilience. Research includes randomized trials, but the findings do not establish that the practice reliably produces these outcomes. Some proposed uses, such as support for present-moment awareness, are less firmly grounded than outcomes examined in clinical research. Overall, it is a well-studied meditation approach, but its potential benefits remain uncertain, and the evidence does not establish it as a treatment for any condition.
Some research: 44 studies. Last checked Oct 9, 2026.
- 13
- human evidence
- 3
- eligible
- 10
- unclassified
- 3
- animal / null result
Best-evidenced uses
- Concentration ImprovementLow · Clinical
- Cognitive Function ImprovementLow · Clinical
- Mood ImprovementLow · Clinical
- 44
- Studies
Evidence checked Oct 9, 2026 · newest study 2026
- C
- 41
- D
- 3
239 community reports across 2 platforms
Coverage
- Effects
- 21
- Helps with
- 8
- Side effects
- 6
- Interactions
- 8
How to read the evidence
Evidence tier — overall strength of the evidence for the whole compound
- StrongWell established — backed by strong, consistent human research.
- ModerateSome genuine support, but mostly from small or lower-quality studies. Promising, not proven.
- PreliminaryEarly-stage evidence — a promising hypothesis, not an established effect yet.
- LimitedVery limited evidence — treat this as a hypothesis, not proof.
- InsufficientNot enough good evidence to draw conclusions yet.
Certainty — how sure we can be that the effect is real
- Very highVery sure — strong, consistent evidence
- HighFairly sure — consistent evidence from good studies
- MediumModerately sure — new studies could change this
- LowNot sure — little or mixed evidence
- Very lowVery unsure — almost no usable evidence
Source — where the data comes from
- Meta-analysisPooled analysis of many trials — the strongest evidence
- RCTRandomized controlled trial — a strong human study design
- ClinicalA human clinical study
- Reference knowledgeFrom general health-science or pharmacology references, not a study of this exact claim
- Animal researchStudied in animals, not humans
- Community reportsAggregated user reports — anecdotal signal, not evidence
- TheoreticalMechanism-based reasoning, not yet tested
Study grade — quality of each underlying study (A best, D weakest)
- AHigh-quality — strong, consistent human trials
- BGood — solid evidence with some limitations
- CModerate — limited, small, or mixed-quality studies
- DWeak — preliminary, indirect, or animal-only
Confidence — how strongly the sources back a finding
A 0–100 score from study quality and agreement
Most supplement evidence is graded C–D. Read it as preliminary signal, not proof.
These are research findings, not promises. A practice does not replace medical treatment.
What does research say?
None of these claims has good evidence yet. Best evidence first.
21 claims:13 not enough evidence3 not tested in people2 personal stories only3 no benefit found
Concentration ImprovementMeditation in general: Medium · 8 trialsNot enough evidence
Too few or too small studies to know if it works.
7 of 9 studies found a benefit; 2 found none. Strongest study: a randomized controlled trial.
Open the Concentration Improvement pageCompare with Meditation in general →Cognitive Function ImprovementMeditation in general: Medium · 18 trialsNot enough evidence
Too few or too small studies to know if it works.
12 of 15 studies found a benefit; 3 found none. Strongest study: a randomized controlled trial.
A 2013 trial found reduced response bias in a difficult task among two meditation groups, while a 2024 trial found that the focused attention group maintained Go/NoGo task performance as the control group’s performance declined. These findings concern specific task measures; a 2020 trial found no effect on motor-related processes.
Open the Cognitive Function Improvement pageCompare with Meditation in general →Mood ImprovementMeditation in general: Medium · 53 trialsNot enough evidence
Too few or too small studies to know if it works.
7 of 9 studies found a benefit; 2 found none. Strongest study: a randomized controlled trial.
A 2018 trial found that positive and negative affect were unchanged after meditation, while both the audio-book and control groups had lower positive affect and higher negative affect. In a 2024 trial, negative affect was lower after the VR condition; that study included people with Traumatic Brain Injury.
Open the Mood Improvement pageCompare with Meditation in general →Anxiety ReductionMeditation in general: Medium · 71 trialsNot enough evidence
Too few or too small studies to know if it works.
7 of 8 studies found a benefit; 1 found none. Strongest study: a randomized controlled trial.
In a 2024 trial, state anxiety was lower after the intervention than before it. A 2013 trial also found reductions in state and trait anxiety among meditators, but not among the comparison groups.
Open the Anxiety Reduction pageCompare with Meditation in general →Alertness IncreaseMeditation in general: Not rated, mixed results (1 trial)Not enough evidence
Too few or too small studies to know if it works.
3 of 4 studies found a benefit; 1 found none. Strongest study: a randomized controlled trial.
In a 2021 trial, the training group was expected to increase in attentiveness by 0.011 units/day. A 2020 trial also found training-related changes in reaction times for hits, but the reported result does not specify their direction.
Open the Alertness Increase pageCompare with Meditation in general →Stress Resilience ImprovementMeditation in general: Medium · 35 trialsNot enough evidence
Too few or too small studies to know if it works.
2 of 3 studies found a benefit; 1 found none. Strongest study: a study that followed people over time.
Open the Stress Resilience Improvement pageCompare with Meditation in general →Improve Heart Rate Variability (HRV)Meditation in general: Medium · 6 trialsNot enough evidence
Too few or too small studies to know if it works.
2 of 4 studies found a benefit; 2 found none. Strongest study: a randomized controlled trial.
During recovery in a 2018 trial, heart rate variability returned to baseline in the meditation, audio-book, and control groups; skin conductance returned to baseline only in the meditation group.
Open the Improve Heart Rate Variability (HRV) pageCompare with Meditation in general →Working Memory ImprovementMeditation in general: 1 trialNot enough evidence
Too few or too small studies to know if it works.
All 2 studies with a clear result found a benefit. Strongest study: a randomized controlled trial.
A 2024 trial found improved Digit span performance after meditation compared with the control group. A 2021 trial found better performance under medium working-memory demand, but not under high or low demand.
Open the Working Memory Improvement pageCompare with Meditation in general →
Only reported by users, not studied: Interoception Improvement, Self-Compassion Improvement, Mental Productivity Increase, Social Function Improvement, Self-Awareness Increase, and Brain Fog Reduction.
What to expect
A single session may be associated with short-term changes in attention, mood, anxiety, and heart-rate variability. In trials finding cognitive changes, programmes ran for 4 weeks at the earliest and typically 6 weeks; mood and anxiety findings were measured after 6 weeks. Concentration findings were measured after 6 to 13 weeks, while alertness findings came from programmes lasting 8 to 11 weeks. These are study timelines, not guaranteed times to notice an effect.
Also studied in people with 8 health conditions
How strong the evidence is in each group. This is research, not a treatment recommendation.
Anxiety Disorder (General)Not enough evidence
Too few or too small studies to know if it works.
The one study found a benefit.
In a randomized trial, one 10-min focused attention meditation session reduced state anxiety compared with random thinking in 26 competitive speed skaters; the participants were healthy, not a group identified as having an anxiety disorder.
Open the Anxiety Disorder (General) pageElderly (65+)Not enough evidence
Too few or too small studies to know if it works.
The one study found a benefit.
A 2024 randomized trial in 43 healthy, community-dwelling older adults found improvements in sustained attention and working memory.
Open the Elderly (65+) pageTraumatic Brain InjuryNot enough evidence
Too few or too small studies to know if it works.
The one study found a benefit.
A 2020 pilot randomized trial in 20 adults with chronic mood and/or cognitive complaints after mild-moderate traumatic brain injury found no significant primary between-group result, although exploratory pooled pre-post improvements were reported.
Open the Traumatic Brain Injury pageChronic PainMeditation in general: Medium · 4 trialsNot tested in people
Only tested in animals, cells or theory. Results like these often do not carry over to people.
The one study found a benefit.
Focused attention meditation is described as helping reduce pain-related distress and improve coping through attentional control and acceptance.
Open the Chronic Pain pageCompare with Meditation in general →Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)Meditation in general: Medium · 3 trialsNot tested in people
Only tested in animals, cells or theory. Results like these often do not carry over to people.
The one study found a benefit.
Focused attention practices are described as contributing to blood pressure reduction when meditation is used as a non-pharmacological approach to hypertension.
Open the Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) pageCompare with Meditation in general →InsomniaMeditation in general: 2 trialsNot tested in people
Only tested in animals, cells or theory. Results like these often do not carry over to people.
The one study found a benefit.
Focused attention meditation is described as reducing cognitive arousal and improving sleep onset and maintenance.
Open the Insomnia pageCompare with Meditation in general →Major Depressive DisorderMeditation in general: 2 trialsNot tested in people
Only tested in animals, cells or theory. Results like these often do not carry over to people.
The one study found a benefit.
Focused attention meditation is included in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, which is described as a relapse-prevention strategy for recurrent depression.
Open the Major Depressive Disorder pageCompare with Meditation in general →Respiratory FailureNot tested in people
Only tested in animals, cells or theory. Results like these often do not carry over to people.
The one study found a benefit.
A qualitative 2016 study involving 3 patients with weaning difficulty tested a program for feasibility; it reported no outcome efficacy data.
Open the Respiratory Failure page
Studied only as meditation in general, not tested in focused attention meditation yet
These results come from studies of meditation as a whole. No study of focused attention meditation has looked at them yet.
Depression (Medium · 30 trials) · Social Function Improvement (Medium · 9 trials) · Self-Compassion Improvement (Medium · 7 trials) · Breast Cancer (High · 7 trials) · Cancer (General) (Medium · 6 trials) · Trauma Symptom Reduction (Medium · 5 trials) · and 10 more
Before you try it
What studies and reports say about side effects and who it may not suit.
- Side effects
With weak evidence: Vision Problems, Pain, Dizziness, Nausea, Seizure Threshold Reduction, and Depersonalization.
- May not suit you if you have
- Psychosis and Bipolar Mania
- Reported by users
- Anxiety Increase (13 posts), Insomnia (11 posts), Headache (10 posts), Brain Fog, and 11 more
- Also listed for meditation in general (written by our reviewers)
- Traumatic Brain InjuryPrecautions from the Meditation page. They are for meditation as a whole and may not all fit focused attention meditation.
General wellness information, not medical advice. Ask a doctor before you start, especially if you take medicines or have a health condition.
How people do it
A gentle start, then what the studies used.
- Start with
- 7.5 minutes, every other day (External Object Gazing (Trataka))A gentle start based on the easiest variation, not on a study.
- Build up to
- 15 minutes, 6 times a week, low intensity (what the studies used)
- What the studies ran
- 95 minutes a week for 8 weeks
The expert view shows every study, dose protocol and source.
Effects
21 listedStart here
The best we have, but the evidence is still weak
- →Concentration ImprovementCertaintyLowSourceClinicallong-term8 cited studies · 2 other sources
In a 2024 trial, concentration scores were higher after the VR condition than after the imagery condition (MD 2.27 points). A 2013 trial also found fewer omissions on a concentrated-attention test among meditators.
What the sources found
8 positive · 2 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 53/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Rating adjusted
Lowered from Medium to Low after checking study quality: journal, risk of bias, trial size and design.
Who was studied
- Healthy people
Where the evidence comes from
- Article8
- Expert opinion1
- Community reports1
Protocol behind this outcome
2 protocolsEstimatedWhat the studies reporting this result did.
- Per week
- 1286 min
- Intensity
- Low
- Format
- Group
- Supervision
- Instructor-led
A repeated course
What worked in trials4 trials and meta-analyses
Randomized trials and meta-analyses that found this benefit: the smallest and the typical amount. Not a target and not a limit.
Smallest Typical Session 18 min 90 min How often 1×/week 4×/week Timing
A trial found it after a single session
Trials that found it ran as little as 6 weeks, typically 13
Open Concentration ImprovementShow studies (10)
RCTCpositiven=7450% confidence2013Only meditators reduced omissions in a concentrated attention test (FM: t(25)=2.17, P=.03)
Low-quality journalOpen-labelCompleters only26% dropped outRCTCneutraln=7260% confidence2024Prior brief meditation reduces distractor inhibition during cognitive interference.
For the reaction time, the rm-ANOVA showed significant main effects in timing, F (1, 69) = 8.31, p = 0.005, η_p^2 = 0.11... The main effect of the intervention and all interactions was not significant, Fs < 2.57, ps > 0.08
Weak journalSham-controlledCompleters onlyRCTCpositiven=7045% confidence2024Virtual reality vs. imagery: comparing approaches in guided meditation.
The results reveal a significant difference, with the VR condition demonstrating higher concentrations than the imagery condition (VR M = 15.91, SD 2.90; imagery M = 13.64, SD 3.83; t = 2.80, p = 0.007).
MD 2.27Weak journalOpen-labelRCTCpositiven=6065% confidence2021Meditation training modulates brain electric microstates and felt states of awareness.
Attentional stability increased from 2.915 (95% CI [2.597, 3.234]) by 0.013 units each day (p < .001, 95% CI [0.009, 0.017])
MD 0.01 [0.01, 0.02]Top journalOpen-labelInactive controlRCTCpositive55% confidence2020Participants who completed training evidenced better controlled attention than waitlist controls during the first retreat intervention (flanker task, computational modeling of controlled attention).
Top journalMain outcomeOpen-labelInactive control+4 more in SourcesQuasi ExperimentalCpositiven=24160% confidence2023Intervention effect: -0.48 (p<0.01), R^2=0.07
MD -0.48Weak journalMain outcomeOpen-labelInactive control62% dropped outBorderline p-value - →Cognitive Function ImprovementCertaintyLowSourceClinical14 cited studies · 2 other sources
A 2013 trial found reduced response bias in a difficult task among two meditation groups, while a 2024 trial found that the focused attention group maintained Go/NoGo task performance as the control group’s performance declined. These findings concern specific task measures; a 2020 trial found no effect on motor-related processes.
What the sources found
13 positive · 3 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 52/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Rating adjusted
Lowered from Medium to Low after checking study quality: journal, risk of bias, trial size and design.
Who was studied
- Healthy people and patients
- Traumatic Brain Injury
Where the evidence comes from
- Article14
- Expert opinion1
- Community reports1
Protocol behind this outcome
5 protocolsEstimatedWhat the studies reporting this result did.
- Per week
- 100 min
- Intensity
- Low
- Format
- Group
- Supervision
- Instructor-led
A repeated course
What worked in trials7 trials and meta-analyses
Randomized trials and meta-analyses that found this benefit: the smallest and the typical amount. Not a target and not a limit.
Smallest Typical Session 10 min 20 min How often 1×/week 6×/week Trials that found no benefit ran2 trials and meta-analyses
Smallest Typical Session 15 min 23 min Timing
A trial found it after a single session
Trials that found it ran as little as 4 weeks, typically 6
Open Cognitive Function ImprovementShow studies (16)
RCTCpositiven=7460% confidence2013In the difficult condition response bias was significantly reduced in the FM and PR groups (FM: t(23)=5.6, P<.001)
Low-quality journalOpen-labelCompleters only26% dropped outRCTCneutraln=7260% confidence2024Prior brief meditation reduces distractor inhibition during cognitive interference.
For the reaction time, the rm-ANOVA showed significant main effects in timing, F (1, 69) = 8.31, p = 0.005, η_p^2 = 0.11... The main effect of the intervention and all interactions was not significant, Fs < 2.57, ps > 0.08
Weak journalSham-controlledCompleters onlyRCTCpositiven=5975% confidence2019Closed-loop digital meditation improves sustained attention in young adults.
RTVar differed significantly between the two groups following training, with less variability in RT across the task period in the MediTrain group (F_1,37 = 6.4, p = 0.016, Cohen’s d = −0.66)
MD -7.98 [-12.7, -3.1]Top journalMain outcomeDouble-blindCompleters only25% dropped outBorderline p-valueRCTCpositiven=5935% confidence2016Impact of short-term meditation and expectation on executive brain functions.
It also indicates that suggestions can modulate the small effect of meditation on verbal fluency.
Sham-controlledSham comparisonRCTCpositiven=5655% confidence2024The control group exhibited a decrement in Go/NoGo task performance over time, whereas the FAM group did not.
Top journalMain outcomeInactive control+10 more in SourcesRCTCpositiven=4960% confidence2020there was a significant group × training interaction (F(1,35)=4.44, P<0.05). This result suggests that the change in P3 amplitude across pre- and post-training was different between the groups
Top journalMain outcomeOpen-labelCompleters only24% dropped out - →Mood ImprovementCertaintyLowSourceClinicallong-term9 cited studies · 1 other source
A 2018 trial found that positive and negative affect were unchanged after meditation, while both the audio-book and control groups had lower positive affect and higher negative affect. In a 2024 trial, negative affect was lower after the VR condition; that study included people with Traumatic Brain Injury.
What the sources found
8 positive · 2 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 50/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Rating adjusted
Lowered from Medium to Low after checking study quality: journal, risk of bias, trial size and design.
Who was studied
- Healthy people and patients
- Traumatic Brain Injury
Where the evidence comes from
- Article9
- Community reports1
Protocol behind this outcome
2 protocolsEstimatedWhat the studies reporting this result did.
- Per week
- 1286 min
- Intensity
- Low
- Format
- Group
- Supervision
- Instructor-led
A repeated course
What worked in trials4 trials and meta-analyses
Randomized trials and meta-analyses that found this benefit: the smallest and the typical amount. Not a target and not a limit.
Smallest Typical Session 12 min 54 min How often 1×/week 7×/week Timing
A trial found it after a single session
Trials that found it typically ran 6 weeks
Open Mood ImprovementShow studies (10)
RCTCpositiven=9945% confidence2018Recovery from stress: an experimental examination of focused attention meditation in novices.
Positive and negative affect were no different than baseline following meditation, whereas, both audio book and control groups had lower positive affect and higher negative affect following the intervention.
Top journalOpen-labelRCTCpositiven=7460% confidence2013Meditators presented a significantly greater reduction of emotion interference in comparison to the relaxation group (t(46)=2.69, P=0.01)
Low-quality journalMain outcomeOpen-labelCompleters only26% dropped outRCTCpositiven=7050% confidence2024Virtual reality vs. imagery: comparing approaches in guided meditation.
Negative affect was measured using the negative affect subscale of the PANAS; high scores indicate higher negative affect. VR paired t = 7.457, p<0.001; negative affect d = 1.29 at posttest.
SMD -1.29Large effectWeak journalMain outcomeOpen-labelLikely overstatedRCTCpositiven=6070% confidence2021Meditation training modulates brain electric microstates and felt states of awareness.
The training group was expected to linearly increase by 0.009 units of serenity each day (p < .001, 95% CI [0.005, 0.012])
MD 0.01 [0.01, 0.01]Top journalMain outcomeOpen-labelInactive controlRCTCpositiven=2030% confidence2020In an exploratory analysis combining FA and mNF data, meditation was associated with significant improvements on the NSI (p = .04)
Open-label+4 more in SourcesCohort studyCpositiven=37935% confidence2017Brief Online Focused Attention Meditation Training: Immediate Impact.
Completing modules was associated with small but significant improvements in relaxation, resilience, stress, positive and negative affect, and flourishing (P <.01 for all)
Low-quality journalMain outcomeOpen-labelNo control group - →Anxiety ReductionCertaintyLowSourceClinical7 cited studies · 2 other sources
In a 2024 trial, state anxiety was lower after the intervention than before it. A 2013 trial also found reductions in state and trait anxiety among meditators, but not among the comparison groups.
What the sources found
8 positive · 1 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 51/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Rating adjusted
Lowered from Medium to Low after checking study quality: journal, risk of bias, trial size and design.
Why this rating
- A reviewer set it to Medium · curator approved
- A reviewer set it to Low · Low fits today's evidence: small trials where anxiety is mostly a secondary outcome and the drops are mostly within-group; only one small between-group RCT (n=26, fragile), and the active-control RCT in older adults found no difference between groups.
Who was studied
- Healthy people and patients
- Ibs
- Traumatic Brain Injury
Where the evidence comes from
- Article7
- Expert opinion1
- Community reports1
Protocol behind this outcome
7 protocolsEstimatedWhat the studies reporting this result did.
- Intensity
- Low
- Format
- Individual
- Supervision
- Instructor-led
Courses and single sessions · 5 repeated-course and 2 single-session protocols
What worked in trials4 trials and meta-analyses
Randomized trials and meta-analyses that found this benefit: the smallest and the typical amount. Not a target and not a limit.
Smallest Typical Session 10 min 21 min How often 1×/week 4×/week Per week 84 min 87 min Timing
A trial found it after a single session
Trials that found it typically ran 6 weeks
Open Anxiety ReductionShow studies (9)
RCTCpositiven=7455% confidence2013Only meditators presented a significant reduction in state and trait anxiety
Low-quality journalOpen-labelCompleters only26% dropped outRCTCpositiven=7270% confidence2024Prior brief meditation reduces distractor inhibition during cognitive interference.
The state anxiety level after intervention was lower than before, F (1, 69) = 30.18, p < 0.001, η_p^2 = 0.30
Weak journalSham-controlledCompleters onlyRCTCneutraln=4350% confidence2024For the DASS, both groups significantly reduced their anxiety and stress post-intervention, as shown by significant main effects of time for both the anxiety and stress subscales, F(1,36) = 4.828, p = 0.035, η_p^2 = 0.118 and F(1,36) = 6.172, p = 0.018, η_p^2 = 0.146, respectively.
Weak journalBlinded assessorRCTCpositiven=2660% confidence2026Focused Attention Meditation as a Pre-Exercise Strategy for Reducing Anxiety in Speed Skaters.
Focused attention meditation significantly reduced state anxiety compared with random thinking (ΔSTAI: −5.0 [6.0] vs. −1.0 [4.3]; p < 0.05, effect size = 0.527)
MD -3 [-5.5, -1]Weak journalMain outcomeOpen-labelCompleters onlyBorderline p-valueRCTCpositiven=2030% confidence2020meditation was associated with significant improvements on the ... BAI (p = .012)
Open-label+3 more in SourcesCohort studyCpositiven=8250% confidence2021In the PD group, anxiety scores improved significantly from baseline (0.5 vs. 1, P < 0.001).
Weak journalOpen-labelInactive controlCompleters only23% dropped out - →Alertness IncreaseCertaintyLowSourceClinical4 cited studies · 1 other source
In a 2021 trial, the training group was expected to increase in attentiveness by 0.011 units/day [0.008, 0.014]. A 2020 trial also found training-related changes in reaction times for hits, but the reported result does not specify their direction.
What the sources found
4 positive · 1 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 50/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Rating adjusted
Lowered from Medium to Low after checking study quality: journal, risk of bias, trial size and design.
Who was studied
- Healthy people
Where the evidence comes from
- Article4
- Community reports1
Protocol behind this outcome
2 protocolsEstimatedWhat the studies reporting this result did.
- Format
- Group
- Supervision
- Instructor-led
A repeated course
What worked in trials2 trials and meta-analyses
Randomized trials and meta-analyses that found this benefit: the smallest and the typical amount. Not a target and not a limit.
Smallest Typical Session 10 min 185 min How often 7×/week Per week 70 min 1295 min Timing
Trials that found it ran as little as 8 weeks, typically 11
Open Alertness IncreaseShow studies (5)
RCTCneutraln=9645% confidence2021For alerting, there were no significant main effects of time, F_(1,91)=3.39, p=0.069, η_p^2=0.037, or meditation group, F_(2,91)=0.01, p=0.987, η_p^2<0.001, and no interaction, F_(2,91)=0.17, p=0.843, η_p^2=0.004.
Weak journalMain outcomeOpen-labelCompleters onlyRCTCpositiven=6070% confidence2021Meditation training modulates brain electric microstates and felt states of awareness.
the training group was expected to linearly increase by 0.011 units of attentiveness each day (p < .001, 95% CI [0.008, 0.014])
MD 0.01 [0.01, 0.01]Top journalMain outcomeOpen-labelInactive controlRCTCpositiven=4960% confidence2020In the RTs for hits, there were significant main effects of training (F(1,35)=14.32, P<0.01) and time (F(1,35)=6.05, P<0.05) and a significant group × time interaction (F(1,35)=7.72, P<0.01)
Top journalMain outcomeOpen-labelCompleters only24% dropped outCohort studyCpositiven=15545% confidence2011The ANCOVAs for Alerting revealed no main effect of age, but did reveal a main effect of group for both RT [F(1,143)=4.22, p<0.05; see Figure 2A] and accuracy [F(1,143)=6.21, p=0.01]. The Alerting subsystem difference scores were smaller for RTs and more positive for accuracy in the CMT vs. control
Weak journalMain outcomeOpen-labelNo control groupCommunity reportsmoderate effectpositive30% confidenceThis effect was mentioned in 3 of 237 Reddit reports discussing it.
3 mentions - →Stress Resilience ImprovementCertaintyLowSourceClinicallong-term3 cited studies · 1 other source
A 2017 cohort study linked completing modules with improvements in resilience, relaxation, stress, affect, and flourishing. A 2023 quasi-experimental study reported an intervention effect of MD -0.19 points.
What the sources found
3 positive · 1 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 49/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Rating adjusted
Lowered from Medium to Low after checking study quality: journal, risk of bias, trial size and design.
Who was studied
- Healthy people and patients
Where the evidence comes from
- Article3
- Community reports1
Protocol behind this outcome
5 protocolsEstimatedWhat the studies reporting this result did.
20 min · 3×/week
- Course
- 6 weeks
- Per week
- 60 min
- Intensity
- Low
- Format
- Group
- Supervision
- Instructor-led
Courses and single sessions · 3 repeated-course and 2 single-session protocols
Timing
After stopping, the benefit faded (1 study) · See “When you stop”
Follow-up: 3-month follow-up
Derived from (1)
Open Stress Resilience ImprovementShow studies (4)
RCTCneutraln=4350% confidence2024For the DASS, both groups significantly reduced their anxiety and stress post-intervention, as shown by significant main effects of time for both the anxiety and stress subscales, F(1,36) = 4.828, p = 0.035, η_p^2 = 0.118 and F(1,36) = 6.172, p = 0.018, η_p^2 = 0.146, respectively.
Weak journalBlinded assessorCohort studyCpositiven=37935% confidence2017Brief Online Focused Attention Meditation Training: Immediate Impact.
Completing modules was associated with small but significant improvements in relaxation, resilience, stress, positive and negative affect, and flourishing (P <.01 for all)
Low-quality journalMain outcomeOpen-labelNo control groupQuasi ExperimentalCpositiven=24160% confidence2023Intervention effect: -0.19 (p<0.05), R^2=0.08
MD -0.19Weak journalMain outcomeOpen-labelInactive control62% dropped outBorderline p-valueCommunity reportsmoderate effectpositive50% confidenceThis effect was mentioned in 8 of 237 Reddit reports discussing it.
8 mentions - →Improve Heart Rate Variability (HRV)CertaintyLowSourceClinical3 cited studies · 1 other source
During recovery in a 2018 trial, heart rate variability returned to baseline in the meditation, audio-book, and control groups; skin conductance returned to baseline only in the meditation group.
What the sources found
2 positive · 2 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 43/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Hiv Aids
Where the evidence comes from
- Article3
- Expert opinion1
Timing
A trial found it after a single session
Open Improve Heart Rate Variability (HRV)Show studies (4)
RCTCpositiven=9950% confidence2018Recovery from stress: an experimental examination of focused attention meditation in novices.
During recovery, meditators' heart rate variability and skin conductance levels returned to baseline, whereas only heart rate variability returned to baseline for the audio book and control groups.
Top journalMain outcomeOpen-labelQuasi ExperimentalCneutraln=2650% confidence2022None of the HRV measures changed significantly after training (p's > 0.05)
Open-labelNo control groupCompleters only33% dropped outPilot studyCneutral20% confidence2008Changes in heart rate variability during concentration meditation.
Results indicate that meditation may have different effects on health depending on frequency of the resonant peak that each meditator can achieve.
Main outcomeNo control groupExpert opinionpositive50% confidenceMeditation with slow, steady breathing may raise heart rate variability (HRV, a marker of parasympathetic activity) during practice; evidence that focused attention meditation raises resting HRV over weeks of training is inconsistent.
Expert knowledge synthesis
Low probability(13)
- →Working Memory ImprovementCertaintyLowSourceClinical2 cited studies · 1 other source
A 2024 trial found improved Digit span performance after meditation compared with the control group. A 2021 trial found better performance under medium working-memory demand, but not under high or low demand.
What the sources found
3 positive · 0 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 45/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Rating adjusted
Lowered from Medium to Low after checking study quality: journal, risk of bias, trial size and design.
Who was studied
- Healthy people
Where the evidence comes from
- Article2
- Community reports1
Timing
A trial found it after a single session
Open Working Memory ImprovementShow studies (3)
RCTCpositiven=4360% confidence2024For working memory, the meditation group significantly improved their Digit span performance post-intervention compared to the control group, as evidenced by a significant time x group interaction, F(1,36) = 5.437, p = 0.025, η_p^2 = 0.131.
Weak journalBlinded assessorRCTCpositive45% confidence2021Meditation-induced cognitive-control states regulate working memory task performance.
The results showed that FAM promotes WM performance in the medium (2-back), but not in the high (3-back) or low (1-back) demand condition
Studies disagreeMain outcomeOpen-labelInactive controlCommunity reportsmoderate effectpositive30% confidenceThis effect was mentioned in 3 of 237 Reddit reports discussing it.
3 mentions - →Analgesic EffectCertaintyLowSourceClinicallong-term1 cited study
In a cohort study involving people with IBS, pain scores improved in the PD group compared with TAU. Pain improved in 93% (28/30) and resolved in 47% (14/30) of the PD group.
What the sources found
1 positive · 0 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 55/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Ibs
Where the evidence comes from
- Article1
Protocol behind this outcome
2 protocolsEstimatedWhat the studies reporting this result did.
34 min · 7×/week
- Course
- 16 weeks
- Per week
- 236 min
- Intensity
- Low
- Format
- Group
- Supervision
- Instructor-led
A repeated course
Open Analgesic EffectShow studies (1)
Cohort studyCpositiven=8255% confidence2021Changes in pain scores from baseline showed improvement in the PD group, 0.67 ± 0.13 vs. TAU 1.39 ± 0.11 (p = 0.0003). Pain improved in 93% (28/30) and resolved in 47% (14/30).
Weak journalMain outcomeOpen-labelInactive controlCompleters only23% dropped out - →Memory ImprovementCertaintyLowSourceClinical1 cited study · 1 other source
In a 2021 trial of healthy participants, the focused attention group gained 3.73 words more than the control group on the measured memory score (MD 3.73 words [0.96, 7.8]).
What the sources found
2 positive · 0 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 45/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Who was studied
- Healthy people
Where the evidence comes from
- Article1
- Community reports1
Protocol behind this outcome
2 protocolsMeasuredWhat the studies reporting this result did.
38 min · 1×/week
- Course
- 6 weeks
- Intensity
- Moderate
- Format
- Group
- Supervision
- Instructor-led
Courses and single sessions · 1 repeated-course and 1 single-session protocols
Timing
A trial found it after a single session
Open Memory ImprovementShow studies (2)
RCTCpositiven=3060% confidence2021The ΔTW score for the FAM group was 3.2 ± 1.3, whereas the ΔTW score for the control group was −0.53 ± 1.0. Additionally, the results of the ANCOVA revealed a significant difference between the groups (F [1, 27] = 6.89, η_p^2 = .20, 95% family‐wise CI [0.96, 7.8], p = .014)
MD 3.73 [0.96, 7.8]Main outcomeOpen-labelCompleters only32% dropped outBorderline p-valueCommunity reportsmoderate effectpositive30% confidenceThis effect was mentioned in 3 of 237 Reddit reports discussing it.
3 mentionsMeditation in general: Not rated, mixed results (3 trials) →
- →Antidepressant EffectCertaintyLowSourceClinical1 cited study · 1 other source
A 2020 trial involving people with Traumatic Brain Injury found an improvement on the BDI following meditation.
What the sources found
2 positive · 0 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 40/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Traumatic Brain Injury
Where the evidence comes from
- Article1
- Expert opinion1
Protocol behind this outcome
1 protocolMeasuredWhat the studies reporting this result did.
60 min · 1×/week
- Course
- 6 weeks
- Per week
- 60 min
- Intensity
- Moderate
- Format
- Group
- Supervision
- Instructor-led
A repeated course
Open Antidepressant EffectShow studies (2)
RCTCpositiven=2030% confidence2020meditation was associated with significant improvements on the ... BDI (p = .037)
Open-labelExpert opinionpositive50% confidenceMindfulness and focused attention meditation have demonstrated moderate antidepressant effects.
Expert knowledge synthesis - →Reaction Speed IncreaseCertaintyLowSourceClinical2 cited studies
In a 2020 trial, the FAM21 group had faster reaction times in most learning blocks than the FAM1 and control groups.
What the sources found
1 positive · 1 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 35/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Who was studied
- Healthy people
Where the evidence comes from
- Article2
Timing
A trial found it after a single session
Open Reaction Speed IncreaseShow studies (2)
RCTCpositiven=2940% confidence2020FAM21 exhibited faster reaction time performances in majority of the learning blocks compared to FAM1 and Control.
Main outcomeNo control groupPilot studyDneutraln=1130% confidence2023There is no significant difference in response time before and after meditation training (baseline: 381.24 ± 15.36 ms; follow-up: 373.23 ± 27.09 ms, p = 0.36)
Weak journalOpen-labelNo control groupCompleters only - →Verbal Fluency ImprovementCertaintyLowSourceClinical1 cited study
A randomized trial in healthy participants found a small effect of meditation on verbal fluency, and suggestions could modulate that effect.
What the sources found
1 positive · 0 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 35/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Who was studied
- Healthy people
Where the evidence comes from
- Article1
Protocol behind this outcome
1 protocolEstimatedWhat the studies reporting this result did.
20 min · 7×/week
- Per week
- 140 min
A repeated course
Open Verbal Fluency ImprovementShow studies (1)
RCTCpositiven=5935% confidence2016Impact of short-term meditation and expectation on executive brain functions.
It also indicates that suggestions can modulate the small effect of meditation on verbal fluency.
Sham-controlledSham comparison - →Emotional Regulation ImprovementCertaintyLowSourceAnecdotallong-termnot used for recommendations2 other sources
Focused attention meditation is proposed to improve emotional control by enhancing prefrontal regulation of amygdala activity and reducing reactivity. People mentioned this effect in 29 of 237 reports.
What the sources found
2 positive · 0 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 50/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Where the evidence comes from
- Expert opinion1
- Community reports1
Why it isn't used for recommendations
No supporting study on file
Open Emotional Regulation ImprovementShow studies (2)
Expert opinionpositive50% confidenceEnhances prefrontal regulation of amygdala activity, leading to improved emotional control and reduced reactivity.
Expert knowledge synthesisCommunity reportsmoderate effectpositive50% confidenceThis effect was mentioned in 29 of 237 Reddit reports discussing it.
29 mentions - →Sleep Quality ImprovementCertaintyLowSourceAnecdotalnot used for recommendations2 other sources
Focused attention meditation is proposed to support sleep quality by reducing pre-sleep arousal and promoting relaxation. Some people report this effect: it appeared in 6 of 237 Reddit reports discussing it.
What the sources found
2 positive · 0 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 48/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Where the evidence comes from
- Expert opinion1
- Community reports1
Why it isn't used for recommendations
No supporting study on file
Open Sleep Quality ImprovementShow studies (2)
Expert opinionpositive50% confidenceFocused attention meditation may improve sleep quality, by reducing pre-sleep arousal and promoting relaxation.
Expert knowledge synthesisCommunity reportsmoderate effectpositive45% confidenceThis effect was mentioned in 6 of 237 Reddit reports discussing it.
6 mentions - →Sleep Onset ImprovementCertaintyLowSourceTheoreticalnot used for recommendations1 other source
Focused attention meditation is described as reducing sleep onset latency and improving sleep efficiency in older adults with moderate sleep disturbance.
What the sources found
1 positive · 0 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 50/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Where the evidence comes from
- Expert opinion1
Why it isn't used for recommendations
No supporting study on file
Open Sleep Onset ImprovementShow studies (1)
Expert opinionpositive50% confidenceReduces sleep onset latency and improves sleep efficiency in older adults with moderate sleep disturbance.
Expert knowledge synthesis - →Rumination ReductionCertaintyLowSourceTheoreticallong-termnot used for recommendations1 other source
The proposed benefit is reduced repetitive negative thinking, described as a core process in depression and anxiety disorders; this effect has not been demonstrated in human studies.
What the sources found
1 positive · 0 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 50/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Where the evidence comes from
- Expert opinion1
Why it isn't used for recommendations
No supporting study on file
Open Rumination ReductionShow studies (1)
Expert opinionpositive50% confidenceConsistently reduces repetitive negative thinking, a core process in depression and anxiety disorders.
Expert knowledge synthesis - →Blood Pressure SupportCertaintyLowSourceTheoreticalnot used for recommendations1 other source
The proposed explanation is that meditation may lower blood pressure through reduced sympathetic tone and stress reduction; focused attention meditation is described as having modest effects.
What the sources found
1 positive · 0 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 50/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Where the evidence comes from
- Expert opinion1
Why it isn't used for recommendations
No supporting study on file
Open Blood Pressure SupportShow studies (1)
Expert opinionpositive50% confidenceMeditation practices can lower blood pressure through reduced sympathetic tone and stress reduction, with focused attention meditation showing modest effects.
Expert knowledge synthesis - →Present Moment AwarenessCertaintyLowSourceTheoreticalnot used for recommendations3 cited studies · 1 other source
Present-moment awareness is a proposed benefit, rather than an effect demonstrated in human studies.
What the sources found
1 positive · 3 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 44/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Who was studied
- Healthy people
Where the evidence comes from
- Article3
- Community reports1
Trials that found no benefit ran2 trials and meta-analyses
Smallest Typical Session 10 min 20 min Why it isn't used for recommendations
Studied, with no positive result
Open Present Moment AwarenessShow studies (4)
RCTCneutraln=9645% confidence2021For alerting in the FAM group, only nonreactivity was finally adopted as a significant independent variable (Figure 3A; alerting difference (ms)=−2.15×nonreactivity +46.82, R^2=0.15, r=−0.38, p=0.030).
Weak journalOpen-labelCompleters onlyRCTCneutraln=4940% confidence2020Paired t-test with Bonferroni correction as post hoc analysis did not reveal any significant change between pre- and post-training in each group (meditation group MAAS, pre-training=37.35 ± 10.13, post-training=40.47 ± 10.53, t(16)=−1.89, P=0.07; control group MAAS, pre-training=43.00 ± 8.58, post-t
Top journalOpen-labelCompleters only24% dropped outCross SectionalCneutraln=5240% confidence2018The mindfulness trait, reflected by MAAS scores, showed no significant difference between the two groups.
Weak journalOpen-labelCommunity reportsmoderate effectpositive50% confidenceThis effect was mentioned in 28 of 237 Reddit reports discussing it.
28 mentions - →Fatigue ReductionCertaintyLowSourceTheoreticalnot used for recommendations1 cited study · 1 other source
Fatigue reduction remains a theoretical possibility rather than a demonstrated human effect.
What the sources found
1 positive · 1 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 40/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Who was studied
- Healthy people
Where the evidence comes from
- Article1
- Community reports1
Why it isn't used for recommendations
Studied, with no positive result
Open Fatigue ReductionShow studies (2)
RCTCneutraln=2655% confidence2026Focused Attention Meditation as a Pre-Exercise Strategy for Reducing Anxiety in Speed Skaters.
No significant differences were observed among conditions in mean power output or fatigue index during HIIT.
Weak journalMain outcomeOpen-labelCompleters onlyCommunity reportsmoderate effectpositive25% confidenceThis effect was mentioned in 2 of 237 Reddit reports discussing it.
2 mentions
Very low probability(1)
- →Physical Endurance IncreaseCertaintyVery lowSourceClinicalnot used for recommendations1 cited study
Physical endurance remains a possible effect rather than one demonstrated in human studies.
What the sources found
0 positive · 1 neutral · 0 negativeconfidence 55/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Who was studied
- Healthy people
Where the evidence comes from
- Article1
Why it isn't used for recommendations
Studied, with no positive result
Open Physical Endurance IncreaseShow studies (1)
RCTCneutraln=2655% confidence2026Focused Attention Meditation as a Pre-Exercise Strategy for Reducing Anxiety in Speed Skaters.
No significant differences were observed among conditions in mean power output or fatigue index during HIIT.
Weak journalMain outcomeOpen-labelCompleters onlyMeditation in general: Not rated, mixed results (2 trials) →
6 more mentioned only by users
What to expect
A single session may be associated with short-term changes in attention, mood, anxiety, and heart-rate variability. In trials finding cognitive changes, programmes ran for 4 weeks at the earliest and typically 6 weeks; mood and anxiety findings were measured after 6 weeks. Concentration findings were measured after 6 to 13 weeks, while alertness findings came from programmes lasting 8 to 11 weeks. These are study timelines, not guaranteed times to notice an effect.
Conditions it's used for
Complaints and diagnoses people take it for8 listedThe best we have, but the evidence is still weak
- →Anxiety Disorder (General)CertaintyLowSourceClinical1 cited study
In a randomized trial, one 10-min focused attention meditation session reduced state anxiety compared with random thinking in 26 competitive speed skaters; the participants were healthy, not a group identified as having an anxiety disorder.
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Who was studied
- Healthy people
Protocol behind this outcome
1 protocolMeasuredWhat the studies reporting this result did.
10 min
- Format
- Individual
- Supervision
- Instructor-led
Single sessions · 0 repeated-course and 1 single-session protocols
Open Anxiety Disorder (General)Show studies (1)
RCTCn=2660% confidence2026Focused Attention Meditation as a Pre-Exercise Strategy for Reducing Anxiety in Speed Skaters.
Significant reduction in state anxiety (STAI) after a single 10-min focused attention meditation session compared to random thinking in competitive speed skaters.
Weak journalOpen-labelCompleters only - →Elderly (65+)CertaintyLowSourceClinical1 cited study
A 2024 randomized trial in 43 healthy, community-dwelling older adults found improvements in sustained attention and working memory.
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Who was studied
- Healthy people
- Elderly (65+)
Protocol behind this outcome
1 protocolMeasuredWhat the studies reporting this result did.
20 min · 3×/week
- Course
- 4 weeks
- Per week
- 60 min
- Intensity
- Low
- Format
- Small group
- Supervision
- Instructor-led
A repeated course
Open Elderly (65+)Show studies (1)
RCTCn=4360% confidence2024RCT showing improved sustained attention and working memory in healthy community-dwelling older adults.
Weak journalBlinded assessor - →Traumatic Brain InjuryCertaintyLowSourceClinical1 cited study
A 2020 pilot randomized trial in 20 adults with chronic mood and/or cognitive complaints after mild-moderate traumatic brain injury found no significant primary between-group result, although exploratory pooled pre-post improvements were reported.
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Traumatic Brain Injury
Protocol behind this outcome
1 protocolEstimatedWhat the studies reporting this result did.
12 min · 7×/week
- Course
- 6 weeks
- Per week
- 84 min
- Format
- Self-guided
A repeated course
Open Traumatic Brain InjuryShow studies (1)
RCTCn=2030% confidence2020Pilot RCT in adults with chronic mood and/or cognitive complaints after mild-moderate TBI; primary between-group result non-significant, exploratory pooled pre-post improvements reported.
Open-label - →Chronic PainCertaintyLowSourceTheoreticalnot used for recommendations1 other source
Focused attention meditation is described as helping reduce pain-related distress and improve coping through attentional control and acceptance.
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Where the evidence comes from
- Expert opinion
Why it isn't used for recommendations
No supporting study on file
Open Chronic PainShow studies (1)
Expert opinion50% confidenceEffective in reducing pain-related distress and improving pain coping through enhanced attentional control and acceptance.
- →Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)CertaintyLowSourceTheoreticalnot used for recommendations1 other source
Focused attention practices are described as contributing to blood pressure reduction when meditation is used as a non-pharmacological approach to hypertension.
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Where the evidence comes from
- Expert opinion
Why it isn't used for recommendations
No supporting study on file
Open Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)Show studies (1)
Expert opinion50% confidenceMeditation is used as a non-pharmacological intervention for hypertension, with focused attention practices contributing to blood pressure reduction.
- →InsomniaCertaintyLowSourceTheoreticalnot used for recommendations1 other source
Focused attention meditation is described as reducing cognitive arousal and improving sleep onset and maintenance.
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Where the evidence comes from
- Expert opinion
Why it isn't used for recommendations
No supporting study on file
Open InsomniaShow studies (1)
Expert opinion50% confidenceFocused attention meditation is indicated for insomnia, as it reduces cognitive arousal and improves sleep onset and maintenance.
- →Major Depressive DisorderCertaintyLowSourceTheoreticalnot used for recommendations1 other source
Focused attention meditation is included in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, which is described as a relapse-prevention strategy for recurrent depression.
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Where the evidence comes from
- Expert opinion
Why it isn't used for recommendations
No supporting study on file
Open Major Depressive DisorderShow studies (1)
Expert opinion50% confidenceMindfulness-based cognitive therapy, which includes focused attention, is a relapse prevention strategy for recurrent depression.
Low probability(1)
- →Respiratory FailureCertaintyLowSourceTheoreticalnot used for recommendations1 cited study
A qualitative 2016 study involving 3 patients with weaning difficulty tested a program for feasibility; it reported no outcome efficacy data.
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Respiratory Failure
Why it isn't used for recommendations
A hospital-managed condition, never self-care
Open Respiratory FailureShow studies (1)
QualitativeDn=315% confidence2016Program was developed for and tested in patients with weaning difficulty; feasibility only, no outcome efficacy data in abstract.
Top journalNo control group
Studied only as meditation in general, not tested in focused attention meditation yet
These results come from studies of meditation as a whole. No study of focused attention meditation has looked at them yet.
Depression (Medium · 30 trials) · Social Function Improvement (Medium · 9 trials) · Self-Compassion Improvement (Medium · 7 trials) · Breast Cancer (High · 7 trials) · Cancer (General) (Medium · 6 trials) · Trauma Symptom Reduction (Medium · 5 trials) · and 10 more
Side effects
6 listedHighest probability
- →Vision ProblemsCertaintyLowSourceClinical1 cited study
A cross-sectional study involving 342 people with a clinical condition recorded problems with visual focusing.
What the sources found
0 not observed · 0 unclear · 1 reportedconfidence 45/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
Where the evidence comes from
- Article1
Protocol behind this outcome
1 protocolEstimatedWhat the studies reporting this result did.
- Format
- Individual
A repeated course
Open Vision ProblemsShow studies (1)
Cross SectionalCnegativen=34245% confidence2017Unwanted effects: Is there a negative side of meditation? A multicentre survey.
Visual focalization problems
Weak journalNo control group - →PainCertaintyLowSourceClinical1 cited study · 1 other source
A cross-sectional study involving 342 people with a clinical condition recorded stomach, headache, muscular, and nausea-related pain.
What the sources found
0 not observed · 0 unclear · 2 reportedconfidence 38/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
Where the evidence comes from
- Article1
- Community reports1
Protocol behind this outcome
1 protocolEstimatedWhat the studies reporting this result did.
- Format
- Individual
A repeated course
Open PainShow studies (2)
Cross SectionalCnegativen=34245% confidence2017Unwanted effects: Is there a negative side of meditation? A multicentre survey.
Pain (stomach, headache, muscular, nausea)
Weak journalNo control groupCommunity reportsnegative30% confidenceThis effect was mentioned in 3 of 237 Reddit reports discussing it.
- →DizzinessCertaintyLowSourceClinical1 cited study · 1 other source
A cross-sectional study involving 342 people with a clinical condition recorded loss of consciousness or dizziness.
What the sources found
0 not observed · 0 unclear · 2 reportedconfidence 35/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
Where the evidence comes from
- Article1
- Community reports1
Protocol behind this outcome
1 protocolEstimatedWhat the studies reporting this result did.
- Format
- Individual
A repeated course
Open DizzinessShow studies (2)
Cross SectionalCnegativen=34245% confidence2017Unwanted effects: Is there a negative side of meditation? A multicentre survey.
Loss of consciousness or dizziness
Weak journalNo control groupCommunity reportsnegative25% confidenceThis effect was mentioned in 2 of 237 Reddit reports discussing it.
- →Seizure Threshold ReductionCertaintyLowSourceClinical1 cited study
In a quasi-experimental study of 27 people with epilepsy, focused attention and open monitoring meditation increased IED density compared with the non-meditative STL control, but not compared with the CMM control. The finding measured IED density, not seizure threshold itself.
What the sources found
0 not observed · 0 unclear · 1 reportedconfidence 35/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
- Epilepsy
Where the evidence comes from
- Article1
Open Seizure Threshold ReductionShow studies (1)
Quasi ExperimentalCnegativen=2735% confidence2026Both focused attention (p = .027) and open monitoring (p = .041) meditation increased IED density relative to the non‐meditative STL control condition, whereas no differences were observed relative to the CMM control condition.
MD 6.84 [0.79, 12.9]Top journalMain outcomeOpen-labelSham comparisonCompleters onlyBorderline p-value - →NauseaCertaintyLowSourceReference knowledge1 other source
Close attention to the breath can lead to over-breathing, and the practice may stir up anxiety; either can cause brief nausea, which meditator surveys list among short-lived unwanted effects.
What the sources found
0 not observed · 0 unclear · 1 reportedconfidence 50/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Where the evidence comes from
- Reference knowledge1
Open NauseaShow studies (1)
Reference knowledgenegative50% confidenceClose focus on the breath can lead to over-breathing, and the practice can stir up anxiety; both can cause brief nausea, which meditator surveys list among short-lived unwanted effects.
Background knowledge (no study cited) - →DepersonalizationCertaintyLowSourceReference knowledge1 other source
A pharmacology reference notes that intensive meditation may bring transient feelings of detachment from oneself or one's surroundings, particularly for people with a history of trauma or dissociation.
What the sources found
0 not observed · 0 unclear · 1 reportedconfidence 45/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Where the evidence comes from
- Reference knowledge1
Open DepersonalizationShow studies (1)
Reference knowledgenegative45% confidenceSome individuals may experience transient feelings of detachment from self or surroundings (depersonalization) during intensive meditation, particularly in those with a history of trauma or dissociation.
Don't do it if
When to skip it or get medical advice first2 listedHighest probability
- →PsychosisCertaintyLowSourceReference knowledgeTheoretical
Intensive Meditation can trigger or exacerbate psychotic symptoms in people with a history of psychosis, attributed to increased introspection and sensory distortions.
Where the evidence comes from
- Reference knowledge
Confidence
confidence 75/100
Open PsychosisRationale
Intensive meditation can trigger or exacerbate psychotic symptoms in individuals with a history of psychosis due to increased introspection and sensory distortions.
- →Bipolar ManiaCertaintyLowSourceReference knowledgeTheoretical
During manic episodes, increased internal arousal and distractibility can make Focused Attention Meditation difficult and may worsen agitation.
Where the evidence comes from
- Reference knowledge
Confidence
confidence 70/100
Open Bipolar ManiaRationale
During manic episodes, increased internal arousal and distractibility make focused attention difficult and may worsen agitation.
Who the trials left out
Some trials of this practice did not take people with these conditions, so the studies say less about them. This is not a warning and does not show harm. Ask a clinician first.1 listedLeft out by one trial each (1)
- Pregnancyleft out by 1 trial
PubMed links (1)
Also listed for meditation in general (written by our reviewers)
Precautions from the Meditation page. They are for meditation as a whole and may not all fit focused attention meditation.
When you stop
Rebound and withdrawal after discontinuing1 listedHighest probability
- →Stress Resilience ImprovementCertaintyLowSourceClinicalloss of benefit1 cited study
One quasi-experimental study in 26 participants found that the reduction in perceived stress after training was not sustained at 3-month or 6-month follow-up.
What the sources found
0 not observed · 0 unclear · 1 reportedconfidence 50/100
How big is the effect
No study gave a number we could compare, so the size is not known.
Who was studied
- People with a condition
Where the evidence comes from
- Article1
Protocol behind this outcome
1 protocolMeasuredWhat the studies reporting this result did.
60 min · 1×/week
- Course
- 6 weeks
- Per week
- 60 min
- Intensity
- Moderate
- Format
- Group
- Supervision
- Instructor-led
A repeated course
Open Stress Resilience ImprovementShow studies (1)
Quasi ExperimentalCnegativen=2650% confidence2022The reduction in perceived stress after training was not sustained at 3-month or 6-month follow-up
Interactions
Okay to combine with
Highest probability of useful synergy
- →PracticesMindfulness MeditationCertaintyMediumSourceReference knowledgeComplementary
Mindfulness Meditation offers a broader context for applying Focused Attention Meditation skills and may help make them more stable.
Where the evidence comes from
- Reference knowledge
Open Mindfulness MeditationConfidence
confidence 70/100
- →PracticesProgressive Muscle RelaxationCertaintyMediumSourceReference knowledgeAdditive
Combining Progressive Muscle Relaxation with Focused Attention Meditation may increase parasympathetic activation and reduce bodily tension that can interfere with focus.
Where the evidence comes from
- Reference knowledge
Open Progressive Muscle RelaxationConfidence
confidence 65/100
- →SupplementsL-TheanineCertaintyMediumSourceReference knowledgePotentiating
L-Theanine may support Focused Attention Meditation by promoting alpha brain wave activity and reducing physiological stress markers.
- →PracticesYogaCertaintyMediumSourceReference knowledgeComplementary
Yoga postures and breath control may prepare the body and mind for seated Focused Attention Meditation by reducing physical restlessness and promoting relaxation.
- →PracticesDiaphragmatic BreathingCertaintyMediumSourceReference knowledgeComplementary
Diaphragmatic Breathing before or during Focused Attention Meditation may deepen relaxation and increase parasympathetic activation, supporting sustained attention.
Where the evidence comes from
- Reference knowledge
Open Diaphragmatic BreathingConfidence
confidence 55/100
- →SupplementsAshwagandhaCertaintyMediumSourceReference knowledgePotentiating
Ashwagandha may lower baseline arousal through its anxiolytic and stress-reducing effects, potentially making it easier to maintain focus during Focused Attention Meditation.
Weakens or is weakened by
Highest probability
- →SupplementsCaffeineCertaintyMediumSourceReference knowledgeCompetitive
Pharmacology references describe caffeine’s stimulant effects as increasing physiological arousal and potentially promoting mind-wandering, which can counter the calming and attentional focus cultivated by focused attention meditation.
- →SupplementsEthanol (Alcohol)CertaintyMediumSourceReference knowledgeDepleting
Pharmacology references describe alcohol as impairing prefrontal cortex function and disrupting sleep architecture, both of which can undermine the cognitive control needed for focused attention meditation.
How it works
The mechanisms this practice works through25 listed · 0 established- Alpha peakNeural oscillationsproposed
Concentrative meditation increases alpha peak power, interpreted as an active inhibitory attentional mechanism suppressing irrelevant inputs.
- Anterior cingulate cortex (ACC)Attentional and conflict-monitoring processingproposed
Brief FAM was associated with altered N2 and P3 stimulus- and response-related conflict monitoring, with the authors suggesting increased attentional focus and reduced cognitive resources.
- Default Mode Network coherence, Frontoparietal Control and Salience Network connectivity, visual and attention network couplinglarge-scale intrinsic brain network organizationproposed
A single brief focused attention meditation session reduced DMN coherence, increased FPCN and salience network connectivity, and decoupled visual and attention networks relative to relaxation instruction.
- Default mode network (DMN) and dorsal attention network (DAN)Brain functional connectivityproposed
Increased resting-state functional connectivity within the DAN, between DMN and DAN, and between DMN and visual cortex after 2-month FAM practice.
- Default mode network (DMN), dorsal attention network (DAN), salience network (SN), frontoparietal network (FPN)Attention network modulationproposed
FAM training modulates functional activity in DMN, DAN, and FPN during an attentional task, with increased activation in SN and FPN regions and practice-time-dependent changes in DMN and DAN.
- Dentate gyrusHippocampal neurogenesisproposed
MAP Training may enhance discrimination learning through increased neurogenesis in the hippocampus, though this is speculative and not directly measured in humans.
- Distractor inhibitionAttention regulationproposed
FAM and OMM reduce inhibition processes for distractors during cognitive interference tasks, as evidenced by the mere exposure effect.
- Dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC)Top-down attention controlproposed
FAM activates the bilateral DLPFC through top-down attention control, which is associated with improved working memory capacity.
- EEG microstatesbrain network dynamicsproposed
Meditation training reduced the strength and duration of EEG microstates and increased their occurrence, suggesting less stable neural ensembles and increased lability of resting-state dynamics.
- Emotional interferenceEmotion regulationproposed
Meditators showed reduced emotional interference and lower negative valence/arousal ratings, suggesting improved emotion regulation.
- Frontal N2 event-related potentialCognitive controlproposed
FAM21 was associated with more pronounced frontal and central N2 amplitudes and a steeper amplitude decline with improving general learning, interpreted by the authors as dynamic modulation of cognitive control.
- Fronto-parietal network (FPN) and default mode network (DMN)Brain network reconfigurationproposed
Meditation practice led to changes in the community size and flexibility of the FPN and DMN, suggesting reconfiguration of whole-brain functional network architecture.
- Intracellular pHBrain energy metabolismproposed
Decreased intracellular pH during FAM, possibly related to increased lactate concentration during brain activation.
- P3 amplitude at PzNeural activityproposed
FAM training increased P3 amplitude at Pz during target stimuli in an oddball task, indicating enhanced top-down attentional processing.
- PCr/ATP ratioBrain energy metabolismproposed
Decreased PCr/ATP ratio in various brain regions during FAM, indicating higher energy demand and increased spending of PCr buffer supplies.
- Target facilitationTop-down attentionproposed
FAM may enhance target facilitation rather than distractor inhibition, with the effect modulated by state relaxation and anxiety.
- Theta band phase synchrony (F4-Pz, F4-Oz)Neural connectivityproposed
Theta band phase synchrony during FAM correlated with P3 amplitude, suggesting a link between frontal-parietal/occipital connectivity and attentional performance.
- Theta-band phase consistency over anterior brain areasNeuronal oscillatory entrainmentproposed
Meditation training was associated with increased phase consistency of theta oscillations, which the authors propose reflects enhanced entrainment to sensory input rhythms.
- attentional suppression (Pd component)attentional controlproposed
Meditators showed larger Pd amplitudes for target-colored distractors, indicating more efficient attentional suppression compared to non-meditators.
- circulating cytokinesinflammatory signalingproposed
Inflammatory (cytokine) activity was inversely associated with controlled attention during both meditation interventions; this is a correlational association, not a demonstrated causal effect of meditation on cytokines.
- dorsomedial prefrontal cortex and superior parietal lobule connectivityattention regulation networkproposed
After one 10-minute FAM session, resting-state connectivity between left dorsomedial prefrontal cortex and right superior parietal lobule increased relative to control, interpreted by the authors as modification of attention regulation by cognitive effort.
- parasympathetic activity (HRV high-frequency power)autonomic nervous systemproposed
High-frequency HRV power increased and the LF/HF ratio decreased during paced breathing, which the authors interpret as increased parasympathetic activity.
- prefrontal cortical networkscognitive-emotional regulationproposed
Focused attention meditation engages sustained attention and reduces ruminative thought, potentially through top-down attentional control and emotional regulation.
- reactive controlattentional controlproposed
CMT may improve reactive control, as evidenced by better accuracy on incongruent trials preceded by congruent trials.
- skin conductance and autonomic recovery after stresssympathetic nervous systemproposed
The authors suggest that meditation uniquely affects the sympathetic nervous system during recovery from a stressor.
Variations
5 documentedTypical protocol
41 protocolsEstimatedAcross every study of this practice, whatever the variation.
15 min · 6×/week
- Course
- 8 weeks
- Per week
- 95 min
- Rounds
- 1
- % of max heart rate
- 60% of max
- Intensity
- Low
- Format
- Individual
- Supervision
- Instructor-led
Courses and single sessions · 20 repeated-course and 19 single-session protocols
93% of the corpus contributed
Breath Counting (Su-soku)
Beginner9/1010–20 min · Daily
Breath Counting (Su-soku)
Beginner9/1010–20 min · Daily10–20 min · Daily
Editorial- How often
- Daily
- Intensity
- Low
- Time of day
- Morning
- Where
- Indoors
- Research depth
- Minimal
Counting each exhale from one to ten gives attention a clear checkpoint: if you lose count or become distracted, simply return to one. The count is meant as a gentle anchor, not a way to control your breathing.
No equipment needed.
How it's done6 steps · 3 cues · 3 common mistakes
A general description of the practice, not instruction or medical advice.
Steps
- Sit comfortably with your spine upright, either on a chair or cushion, and close your eyes.
- Take a few natural breaths to settle in, without trying to control the pace.
- Inhale naturally, then as you exhale, silently count 'one' in your mind.
- On the next exhale, count 'two'. Continue counting each exhale up to 'ten'.
- After reaching ten, gently start the count over at 'one'.
- If you lose count or notice your mind has wandered, simply acknowledge it and return to 'one' without judgment.
Cues
- · Count on the exhale only, not the inhale.
- · Keep the counting silent and mental.
- · Treat the number as a gentle touchpoint, not a rigid command.
Common mistakes
- Counting on both the inhale and exhale.
- Getting frustrated or judging yourself when you lose count.
- Trying to force the breath into a specific rhythm.
Studied protocols2 on file
- 15 min· n=30· Single sessionsPMID 34343414
- 10 min· n=26· Single sessionsPMID 41600272
Breath Sensation at the Nostrils
Intermediate8/1030–45 min · Daily
Breath Sensation at the Nostrils
Intermediate8/1030–45 min · Daily30–45 min · Daily
Editorial- How often
- Daily
- Intensity
- Low
- Time of day
- Morning
- Where
- Indoors
- Research depth
- Moderate
This approach focuses on specific sensations just inside the nostrils, such as coolness on the inhale or warmth on the exhale, rather than on the idea of breathing. It may suit people who have moved past the initial restlessness of beginner practice.
No equipment needed.
As studied
6 protocolsEstimatedThe protocol the studies of this variation actually used.
30–60 min
- Course
- 6 weeks
- % of max heart rate
- 60% of max
- Supervision
- Instructor-led
Courses and single sessions · 4 repeated-course and 2 single-session protocols
Derived from2986738534113586347770953504001435564687+1 more in Sources
How it's done6 steps · 3 cues · 3 common mistakes
A general description of the practice, not instruction or medical advice.
Steps
- Assume a stable, comfortable seated posture with your back straight.
- Close your eyes and bring your full attention to the area just inside your nostrils.
- Observe the subtle sensations of the breath entering: coolness, tingling, or pressure.
- Notice the sensations as the breath leaves: warmth, softness, or a change in pressure.
- Maintain a light, receptive attention on these sensations, like watching a river flow.
- When you realize the mind has wandered, mentally note 'thinking' and gently return attention to the breath at the nostrils.
Cues
- · Focus on the sensation itself, not the idea of 'breathing'.
- · Keep the attention narrow and precise, like a laser pointer.
- · Don't try to control the breath; just observe it.
Common mistakes
- Forcing the attention too intensely, creating tension in the face.
- Getting distracted by the movement of the chest or abdomen.
- Becoming dull or sleepy when the sensations become subtle.
Studied protocols5 on file
- 60 min· 1×/week· 6 weeks· 60% of max· n=26· A repeated coursePMID 35040014
- 55 min· 3×/week· 8 weeks· n=140· A repeated coursePMID 35564687
- 60 min· 7×/week· 6 weeks· n=82· A repeated coursePMID 34113586
- 30 min· 4.1×/week· n=52· A repeated coursePMID 29867385
- 30 min· n=96· Single sessionsPMID 34777095
Internal Mantra Repetition
Beginner8/1010–20 min · Twice a day
Internal Mantra Repetition
Beginner8/1010–20 min · Twice a day10–20 min · Twice a day
Editorial- How often
- Twice a day
- Intensity
- Low
- Time of day
- Morning
- Where
- Indoors
- Research depth
- Minimal
A silently repeated word or short phrase provides a verbal anchor for people who find that more engaging than a sensory focus. If attention drifts, the instruction is to return gently to the mantra rather than force thoughts away.
No equipment needed.
How it's done6 steps · 3 cues · 3 common mistakes
A general description of the practice, not instruction or medical advice.
Steps
- Sit comfortably in a quiet place and close your eyes.
- Choose a simple, neutral word or phrase like 'peace', 'calm', or a traditional mantra.
- Begin to silently repeat the mantra in your mind, synchronizing it with your breath if you like.
- Let the mantra repeat at its own natural pace, without forcing it.
- When you notice your attention has drifted to thoughts or sounds, gently return to the silent repetition.
- Continue for the duration of your session, allowing the mantra to become fainter or clearer as it will.
Cues
- · Listen to the mantra in your mind as if it's a quiet, distant sound.
- · Don't fight thoughts; just favor the mantra.
- · Keep the repetition effortless and gentle.
Common mistakes
- Repeating the mantra mechanically while the mind is elsewhere.
- Getting annoyed when the mantra is 'drowned out' by thoughts.
- Changing the mantra frequently, which prevents the mind from settling.
External Object Gazing (Trataka)
Beginner7/108–10 min · Daily
External Object Gazing (Trataka)
Beginner7/108–10 min · Daily8–10 min · Daily
Editorial- How often
- Daily
- Intensity
- Moderate
- Time of day
- Any time
- Where
- Indoors
- Research depth
- Moderate
A visible anchor, such as a candle flame, a dot on the wall, or a flower, gives attention a specific point to return to when the mind wanders. The practice uses a relaxed gaze and observation of the object’s details rather than intense staring.
Equipment: Candle, Small object (e.g., a stone or flower)
As studied
7 protocolsEstimatedThe protocol the studies of this variation actually used.
7.5–10 min
- Course
- 9 weeks
- Longest single session studied
- 11 min
- Format
- Group
- Supervision
- Instructor-led
Courses and single sessions · 5 repeated-course and 2 single-session protocols
Derived from2180862732064537340597023791046538137100+2 more in Sources
How it's done6 steps · 3 cues · 3 common mistakes
A general description of the practice, not instruction or medical advice.
Steps
- Place a candle or a simple object at eye level, about an arm's length away.
- Sit comfortably and take a few deep breaths to center yourself.
- Rest your gaze softly on the object, keeping your eyes relaxed without excessive blinking.
- Keep your full attention on the visual details of the object: its shape, color, texture, or the flame's movement.
- When your mind wanders, notice the distraction and bring your gaze and attention back to the object.
- After the session, gently close your eyes and observe any after-image for a moment.
Cues
- · Soften your gaze; avoid staring aggressively.
- · Let the object fill your awareness completely.
- · If using a candle, ensure the room is draft-free and safe.
Common mistakes
- Staring too intensely, causing eye strain or watering.
- Letting the eyes go out of focus and becoming drowsy.
- Analyzing the object instead of simply observing it.
Studied protocols7 on file
- 10 min· 14×/week· 104 weeks· n=155· A repeated coursePMID 21808627
- 10 min· 7×/week· 8 weeks· n=49· A repeated coursePMID 32064537
- 10 min· 5×/week· 9 weeks· n=10· A repeated coursePMID 34059702
- 7.5 min· 7×/week· 26 weeks· n=241· A repeated coursePMID 37910465
- 10 min· 5×/week· 9 weeks· n=11· A repeated coursePMID 38137100
- 10 min· n=56· Single sessionsPMID 38936650
Intensive Retreat Practice
Advanced6/10supervision recommended180–360 min · Daily
Intensive Retreat Practice
Advanced6/10supervision recommended180–360 min · Daily180–360 min · Daily
Editorial- How often
- Daily
- Intensity
- Very high
- Time of day
- Split through the day
- Where
- Indoors or outdoors
- Research depth
- Minimal
This format combines long periods of seated and walking meditation under a strict daily schedule, with minimal breaks and daily teacher interviews. It is intended for experienced practitioners, and the directions emphasize balancing effort with relaxation to avoid mental tension or physical exhaustion.
No equipment needed.
not for children,not in pregnancy,caution for older adults
How it's done6 steps · 3 cues · 3 common mistakes
A general description of the practice, not instruction or medical advice.
Steps
- Follow a strict daily schedule that alternates between 30-60 minute blocks of seated meditation and walking meditation.
- In seated sessions, maintain unwavering focus on your primary object, such as the breath at the nostrils.
- During walking meditation, break the step down into its component sensations: lifting, moving, placing.
- Practice continuously from early morning until evening, with minimal breaks for meals and rest.
- Observe noble silence throughout the retreat, refraining from eye contact, reading, or writing.
- Report your experiences to a teacher during daily interview sessions for personalized guidance.
Cues
- · Treat every moment as a practice opportunity.
- · Work with pain and restlessness as objects of meditation themselves.
- · Maintain a balance of effort and relaxation to avoid burnout.
Common mistakes
- Striving too hard and creating mental tension or physical exhaustion.
- Comparing your experience to others or to your expectations.
- Neglecting walking meditation and treating it as a 'break'.
Studied protocols3 on file
- 360 min· 7×/week· 13 weeks· n=60· A repeated coursePMID 33783922
- 13 weeks· A repeated coursePMID 19846729
- 13 weeks· A repeated coursePMID 32640286
How to start
Community experience
Based on 239 public posts from Reddit and Bluesky.
What people report it did
30 outcomes mentioned across 239 public reports. A report often mentions several, so these counts do not add up to the total.
Reported benefits14
- Concentration Improvement66 mentions
- Mood Improvement42 mentions
- Anxiety Reduction40 mentions
- Emotional Regulation Improvement29 mentions
- Present Moment Awareness28 mentions
- Cognitive Function Improvement17 mentions
- Stress Resilience Improvement8 mentions
- Interoception Improvement7 mentionsnot studied
- Self-Compassion Improvement7 mentionsnot studied
- Mental Productivity Increase7 mentionsnot studied
- Sleep Quality Improvement6 mentions
- Social Function Improvement6 mentionsnot studied
- Self-Awareness Increase6 mentionsnot studied
- Brain Fog Reduction6 mentionsnot studied
Reported side effects15
- Anxiety Increase13 mentionsnot studied
- Insomnia11 mentionsnot studied
- Headache10 mentionsnot studied
- Brain Fognot studied
- Concentration Difficultynot studied
- Derealizationnot studied
- Emotional Bluntingnot studied
- Mental Fatiguenot studied
- Hallucinationsnot studied
- Mood Swingsnot studied
- Muscle Ache (Myalgia)not studied
- Muscle Tensionnot studied
- Paresthesia (Tingling/Numbness)not studied
- Restlessness / Jitterinessnot studied
- Tinnitus Onsetnot studied
Reported after stopping1
- Insomnianot studied
What people report doing
Counted from public posts and videos, not from a survey. Each figure counts the posts that mentioned it — most reports say nothing about schedule.
Session lengthas written
References
48 screened · 44 analysed · 46 listed below
Studies and sources cited on this page. Evidence quality varies — check the grade on each.
- Does focused attention meditation improve probability weighting bias? The role of emotional trade-off difficulty and compensatory decision making.BMC Psychol2026RCTCn=138
- Mindfulness meditation increases interictal epileptiform discharges in meditation-naïve surgical epilepsy patients.Epilepsia2026Quasi ExperimentalCn=27
- Focused Attention Meditation as a Pre-Exercise Strategy for Reducing Anxiety in Speed Skaters.Sensors (Basel)2026Crossover RCTCn=26
- Neurophysiological mechanisms of focused attention meditation: A scoping systematic review.Imaging Neurosci (Camb)2025Systematic reviewCn=1453
- Direct mapping of intervention to thought features: A Bayesian proof-of-concept study.Behav Res Ther2025Quasi ExperimentalCn=40
- Preventive effect of one-session brief focused attention meditation on state fatigue: Resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging study.Neuroimage2024RCTCn=56
- Report from a Tibetan Monastery: EEG neural correlates of concentrative and analytical meditation.Front Psychol2024Observational CohortCn=23
- Four weeks of meditation training improves sustained attention in community-dwelling older adults: a proof-of-concept randomized controlled trial.Front Aging2024RCTCn=43
- Prior brief meditation reduces distractor inhibition during cognitive interference.Front Psychol2024RCTCn=72
- Virtual reality vs. imagery: comparing approaches in guided meditation.Front Psychol2024RCTCn=70
Show all 46 references
- Inside the mindful moment: The effects of brief mindfulness practice on large-scale network organization and intimate partner aggression.2023RCTCn=100
- Meditation attenuates default-mode activity: A pilot study using ultra-high field 7 Tesla MRI.2023Pilot studyCn=10
- Doing what matters in times of stress: No-nonsense meditation and occupational well-being in COVID-19.2023Quasi ExperimentalCn=241
- Focused-Attention Meditation Improves Flow, Communication Skills, and Safety Attitudes of Surgeons.2022RCTCn=140
- Meditation and Aerobic Exercise Enhance Mental Health Outcomes and Pattern Separation Learning Without Changing Heart Rate Variability in Women with HIV.2022Quasi ExperimentalCn=26
- A Retrospective Analysis of Three Focused Attention Meditation Techniques: Mantra, Breath, and External-Point Meditation.2022Observational CohortCn=34
- Meditation-induced cognitive-control states regulate working memory task performance.2021RCTC
- Brain Energy Metabolism in Two States of Mind Measured by Phosphorous Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy.2021Observational CohortCn=27
- Effect of one-session focused attention meditation on the working memory capacity of meditation novices: A functional near-infrared spectroscopy study.2021RCTCn=30
- Longitudinal effects of meditation on brain resting-state functional connectivity.2021Observational CohortCn=10
- Efficacy of Short Course of Preksha Dhyana for Functional Abdominal Pain Disorder in a Busy Pediatric Clinic.2021Observational CohortCn=82
- Individual Differences in the Change of Attentional Functions With Brief One-Time Focused Attention and Open Monitoring Meditations.2021RCTCn=96
- Meditation training modulates brain electric microstates and felt states of awareness.2021RCTCn=60
- Deconstructing the effects of concentration meditation practice on interference control: The roles of controlled attention and inflammatory activity.2020RCTC
- Comparing focused attention meditation to meditation with mobile neurofeedback for persistent symptoms after mild-moderate traumatic brain injury: a pilot study.2020RCTCn=20
- Focused-attention meditation increases cognitive control during motor sequence performance: Evidence from the N2 cortical evoked potential.2020RCTCn=29
- Focused attention meditation training modifies neural activity and attention: longitudinal EEG data in non-meditators.2020RCTCn=49
- Short-term Smartphone App-Based Focused Attention Meditation Diminishes Cognitive Flexibility.2020Crossover RCTC
- Closed-loop digital meditation improves sustained attention in young adults.2019RCTCn=59
- Meditation Effects on the Control of Involuntary Contingent Reorienting Revealed With Electroencephalographic and Behavioral Evidence.2018Observational Cross SectionalCn=52
- Recovery from stress: an experimental examination of focused attention meditation in novices.2018RCTCn=99
- Brief Online Focused Attention Meditation Training: Immediate Impact.2017Observational CohortCn=379
- Unwanted effects: Is there a negative side of meditation? A multicentre survey.2017Observational Cross SectionalCn=342
- The influence of focused-attention meditation states on the cognitive control of sequence learning.2017RCTC
- The Relationship Between Focused Attention Meditation Practice Habits, Psychological Symptoms, and Quality of Life.2016Observational Cross SectionalCn=30
- Impact of short-term meditation and expectation on executive brain functions.2016RCTCn=59
- The improvement of emotion and attention regulation after a 6-week training of focused meditation: a randomized controlled trial.2013RCTCn=74
- Clinical utility of paced breathing as a concentration meditation practice.2012Quasi ExperimentalCn=58
- The influence of concentrative meditation training on the development of attention networks during early adolescence.2011Observational CohortCn=155
- Mental training enhances attentional stability: neural and behavioral evidence.2009Quasi ExperimentalC
- Changes in heart rate variability during concentration meditation.2008Pilot studyC
- Effect of Meditation on Brain Activity during an Attention Task: A Comparison Study of ASL and BOLD Task fMRI.2023Pilot studyDn=11
- Focused attention meditation changes the boundary and configuration of functional networks in the brain.2020Case reportDn=1
- The Care-Integrated Concentration Meditation Program for Patients With Weaning Difficulty: A Pilot Study.2016QualitativeDn=3
- Expert knowledge synthesis
- Background knowledge (no study cited)