Effects of Tummo Meditation and Niguma Yoga on Brain Activity

Hatha yoga, Qigong, Tai Chi, all ancient practices of the mind, continue to be studied and recognized for their mental and spiritual benefits. However, Tummo meditation and Niguma yoga, ancient practices with origins in the 8th and 11th centuries from the Himalayan Vajrayana tradition, remain obscure and have yet to be disseminated and studied. Previously only practiced by Vajrayana monks during a 3-year retreat, practitioners of Tummo and Niguma often report increased mindfulness and emotional calm following the exercises. In an effort to explore these once secret practices, the Manakai O Mālama Integrative Healthcare Group investigated changes in brain activity prior to and following Tummo combined with Niguma in a seasoned Vajrayana practitioner. Using quantitative electroencephalogram imaging and spectral analysis, an increase in alpha band power and intra-connectivity was observed immediately post-practice, suggesting increased activation of the default mode network (DMN), a brain network directly involved in internalized cognition, self-reflection, emotional regulation, and creativity. These findings not only offer a scientific basis for further research, but also provide neurological evidence for the mental and cognitive benefits of Tummo meditation and Niguma yoga. With continued study, it is possible to validate ancient practices of Tummo and Niguma as effective health interventions. Moreover, this study furthers research showing how yoga and meditation techniques may be of benefit for behavioral health. In particular, cultural healing components of yoga and meditation may be more easily deployed in minority populations like Native Hawaiians, who are disproportionately at risk for mental health issues in Hawai'i.