Psilocybin-assisted mindfulness training modulates self-consciousness and brain default mode network connectivity with lasting effects.
Level 2 - randomized trial
Individual randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
PubMed 30965131 · doi:10.1016/j.neuroimage.2019.04.009
What was done
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study investigated the combined effects of psilocybin and meditation in 38 participants during a 5-day mindfulness retreat. Participants received a single oral dose of psilocybin (315 µg/kg) or placebo. Brain dynamics were assessed directly pre- and post-intervention using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) during resting state and two meditation forms. Subjective ego dissolution was measured during the session, and psychosocial functioning was evaluated at a 4-month follow-up.
What was found
The abstract reports no numerical values, effect sizes, or confidence intervals. It states that psilocybin altered functional connectivity in default mode network (DMN) regions, specifically decoupling the medial prefrontal cortex and posterior cingulate cortex. This decoupling was associated with subjective ego dissolution during the session. Furthermore, the magnitude of ego dissolution and functional connectivity changes predicted positive changes in psychosocial functioning 4 months later.
Why it matters
This study provides evidence that psilocybin combined with mindfulness alters anterior-posterior default mode network connectivity and induces ego dissolution that predicts sustained improvements in psychosocial functioning.
Limits
The sample size is small (n = 38), and the abstract provides no exact numerical data, statistical values, or confidence intervals. The specialized 5-day retreat setting and lack of long-term objective clinical measures limit broader generalizability.
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- supports The therapeutic benefit resulting from ego dissolution during psychedelic use is associated with the deactivation of the default mode network.