Mindfulness Improves Brain Computer Interface Performance by Increasing Control over Neural Activity in the Alpha Band

摘要: Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are promising tools for assisting patients with paralysis, but suffer from long training times and variable user proficiency. Mind-body awareness (MBAT) can improve BCI learning, how it does so remains unknown. Here we show that MBAT allows participants to learn volitionally increase alpha band neural activity during tasks incorporate intentional rest. We trained individuals in mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR; a standardized intervention) compared performance brain before after between randomly assigned untrained control groups. The group showed reliably faster learning of than the throughout training. Alpha-band EEG signals, recorded volitional resting state task performance, parallel over sessions, predicted final performance. level alpha-band correlated individuals9 mindfulness practice as well on sustained attention task. Collectively, these results modifies specific signal used by BCI. MBAT, increasing patients9 their rest, may effectiveness large population who could benefit alternatives direct motor control.