A recent study has revealed that even during moments of idleness, the brain remains active, engaging in thoughts, dreams, or memories. This wandering of the mind can significantly impact an individual’s inner experience.
In an experiment involving 30 volunteers, researchers used low-intensity ultrasound waves to stimulate the brain region associated with introspection and abstract thinking. After undergoing a five-minute ultrasound stimulation, participants reported a notable increase in awareness – the ability to concentrate fully on the present moment without judgment. The findings of the study were published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience.
The focus of the study was on the default mode network (DMN) of the brain – a group of interconnected brain regions that are particularly active when an individual disengages from external stimuli and enters a state of thought or reminiscence. Dysregulation in the activity of the DMN is linked to anxious thoughts and symptoms of depression. The researchers hypothesized that ultrasonic stimulation could decrease DMN activity and potentially enhance participants’ emotional well-being.
To target deep brain regions, the team employed transcranial focused ultrasound, which enables precise delivery of acoustic waves. Functional MRI scans confirmed that the stimulation effectively suppressed activity in the posterior cingulate cortex, a key DMN area associated with emotional regulation and focus. Participants who received the stimulation reported subjective effects akin to deep meditation, including altered time perception, reduced negative thoughts, and improved emotional distancing.
Researchers are also exploring the potential of this method in treating mood disorders like depression. They suggest that ultrasonic stimulation could serve as a “training wheels” for meditation, assisting individuals in attaining profound states of awareness more rapidly.