[Visual and computerized analysis of EEG during transcendental meditation and sleep (author's transl)]

Polygraphic records (EEG, EOG, heart rate) were obtained of 5 subjects during and after transcendental meditation (TM) as well as during night sleep. The records were analyzed twice. During TM the amplitude of the alpha-waves was higher as before TM and appeared continuously. Bilateral theta-bursts were also observed. The same EEG changes were seen during relaxation with closed eyes. The discriminance-analysis of 5 frequency-bands of the EEG recorded from C3 showed either no differences in dominant frequency, power and variancy. No differences were observed between the flat EEGs recorded during TM or sleep. The heart rate was significantly slower during meditation or light sleep - when a flat EEG (stage 1) was recorded - as when the recording showed an alpha-rhythm. The vigilosomnograms of all our subjects were normal. The subjects reported that they experienced an increased relaxation, alertness and floating consciousness. They were able to maintain themselves for unusually long time in a state of decreased alertness (stages W1;10).