This book contains two main messages. First, an attempt is made to explain the diverse beneficial findings on cognition and mental health in the literature of meditation practices by the factor of... Show moreThis book contains two main messages. First, an attempt is made to explain the diverse beneficial findings on cognition and mental health in the literature of meditation practices by the factor of breathing. In the respiratory vagal nerve stimulation model of contemplative practices (rVNS) specific respiratory patterns lead to changes in autonomic nervous system functioning that in turn produce changes in the central nervous system, which can be observed in a healthier cognitive and emotional balance. Second, there are two empirical chapters that show null-results on cognition with meditative movement (Tai Chi Chuan) and breathing interventions. The possible reasons for these lack of results are extensively discussed in this dissertation and put into a wider perspective within the scientific field. Show less
With this thesis the PhD-candidate aims to enrich the body of evidence concerning the relation between stress and health, and the mediating role of (un)conscious perseverative cognitions (which is... Show moreWith this thesis the PhD-candidate aims to enrich the body of evidence concerning the relation between stress and health, and the mediating role of (un)conscious perseverative cognitions (which is captured in the extended perseverative cognition hypothesis). The main aim of this thesis was to find direct evidence for the extended PC hypothesis in real life. She examined whether reducing (un)conscious perseverative cognitions, or worry, improved stress-related physiological activity and subjective health complaints. Show less
