ii. Mindfulness mechanisms: Theory, methods, and experimental therapeutics

Relatedly, we worked to conceptualize, measure and study theorized internally-directed cognitive mechanisms of mindfulness training, such as decentering, meta-awareness, identification with experience, and self-referentiality. For example, we developed a model of equanimity grounded in psychobiological models of liking and wanting brain systems. We are using this model to probe the role of liking-wanting (de)coupling in mental health, its role in mindfulness training, and its candidacy as a novel therapeutic target more broadly.

We have also sought to innovate methodologically, by developing a variety of assays to better quantify and thereby study mindfulness and its internally-directed mechanisms of action, across time-scales and contexts. For example, we developed experience sampling methods to study mindfulness that span from real-time moment-to-moment states, to real-world ecological-momentary states and trajectories. Likewise, we developed a novel behavioral paradigm through which we are able to quantify the objects and real-time temporal dynamics of internally-directed cognition during mindfulness training. We are now using this paradigm to probe and map the features, dynamics and signatures of mindfulness meditation. In translational work using this paradigm, we are working to develop an adaptive closed-loop therapeutic technology to train internal attention and mindful awareness, in real-time, during mindfulness meditation.