Many people assume meditation requires long sessions to be effective, but new research suggests measurable changes in brain activity can begin much sooner. Scientists found that even individuals with little or no meditation experience showed noticeable shifts in brainwave patterns within the first few minutes of practice.
According to CNN, the study tracked participants using electroencephalography (EEG) to observe how the brain responded during meditation. Researchers found that changes associated with relaxation and focused attention emerged after about two to three minutes and continued to strengthen as the session progressed.
The strongest effects were observed between seven and ten minutes of meditation, regardless of participants’ experience levels. Researchers noted that experienced meditators entered a state of “relaxed alertness” more quickly, but beginners also demonstrated similar neurological benefits within a short period.
Experts say the findings may help reduce barriers for people who feel they lack time to meditate. The results suggest that brief daily sessions could support stress management, attention, and overall mental well-being without requiring lengthy practice.
