Fairfield

Researchers are evaluating brain-to-brain synchrony in pairs of individuals with varying levels of DNA similarity and social interactions. The study focuses on identical twins, good friends from the same region, and strangers from different countries, all practicing Transcendental Meditation. The purpose is to understand how social connections and genetic similarity may influence synchronized brain activity during meditation. Participants will engage in Transcendental Meditation practice while brain-to-brain synchrony is measured. The study groups include pairs with extensive daily social interaction and pairs with minimal interaction, less than once per week. The meditation sessions last 20 minutes and are observed in different social pairings, including twins, friends, and strangers. During the study, brain synchrony will be assessed following the meditation sessions, along with a graphical measure tracing the depth of meditation. Participants social interactions and genetic relationships are considered to analyze the brain activity patterns. The study includes healthy adults aged 18 to 50 years, and participation involves meditation practice and observation of brain synchrony. The trial is led by Maharishi International University and includes healthy volunteers.