Mild electrical ear stimulation boosted the impact of self-compassion meditation. The findings suggest new possibilities for enhancing mental health interventions.
A new study from University College London (UCL) has found that stimulating the vagus nerve through a device placed on the outer ear can enhance the effectiveness of compassion meditation, increasing peopleS ability to practice self-kindness and mindfulness.
The study, published in Psychological Medicine, adds to evidence of the potential benefits of stimulating this key nerve that connects the brain with major organs in the chest and abdomen.
The vagus nerve is a central component of the parasympathetic “rest-and-digest” system, which counters the body’s “fight-or-flight” stress response. It serves as a communication pathway between the brain and internal organs,while also helping regulate key psychological functions,including emotional control and aspects of social behavior.
How the stimulation was applied
The researchers delivered gentle electrical pulses to participants’ vagus nerve by targeting the tragus, the small cartilage flap in front of the ear canal. These pulses were designed to activate nearby nerve fibers beneath the skin.
