NCT07546786 · Balachundhar Subramaniam
Cognitive Function and Affective Regulation in Meditators
(CALM)
What this study is about
This is a forward-looking group of participants study with 52 meditators and 52 controls. These groups will be contacted at a singular timepoint, during which they will take surveys and cognitive tests, which will be used to assess cognitive and emotional outcomes.
View original scientific description
This is a prospective cohort study with 52 meditators and 52 controls. These groups will be contacted at a singular timepoint, during which they will take surveys and cognitive tests, which will be used to assess cognitive and emotional outcomes. The meditator group will be recruited from a pool of healthy individuals who have learned meditation practices such as those taught by the Isha Foundation (e.g., Shambhavi Mahamudra Kriya, Shoonya, Samyama breath-watching, etc.) Meditation-naïve individuals will be recruited into the control group.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Participants must be able to read and understand English.
- Meditators: Participants must regularly practice meditation (4 or more times per week).
- Controls: Participants must not regularly practice meditation (4 or more times per week)
Exclusion criteria
- Below the age of 18.
- Participants not living in the US.
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Apr 23, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations