Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 9, 2026
07:05
A Protocol for the Administration of Real-Time fMRI Neurofeedback Training
Published on: August 24, 2017
Autogenic training alters cerebral activation patterns in fMRI
Marc Schlamann1, Ryan Naglatzki, Armin de Greiff
1University Hospital Essen and University Duisburg-Essen, Germany.
The International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis
|August 28, 2010
Summary
Experienced practitioners show distinct brain activation during autogenic training (AT). This neuroimaging study reveals specific patterns in the postcentral and insular cortex, suggesting a training-related neural adaptation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
Background:
- Autogenic training (AT) is a mind-body relaxation technique.
- Understanding the neural correlates of AT is crucial for its therapeutic application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate cerebral activation patterns during the initial phases of autogenic training (AT).
- To explore the relationship between these activation patterns and perceived experiences in individuals trained in AT.
Main Methods:
- Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was employed.
- Nineteen volunteers experienced in AT and 19 untrained controls were studied during the first steps of AT.
Main Results:
- fMRI revealed activation in the left postcentral areas in experienced AT practitioners, correlating with their level of experience.
- Experienced AT practitioners showed significantly higher activation in the prefrontal and insular cortex.
- Insular cortex activation correlated with the number of years of simple relaxation exercises.
Conclusions:
- Specific brain activation patterns in experienced AT practitioners may indicate a training effect.
- Elevated insular activation in experienced individuals suggests differences in emotional processing or self-awareness compared to untrained subjects.
