Dr Bishal Joshi
PhD. Scholar, Lumbini Buddhist University, Lumbini
Abstract
In the age of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR), the rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, demands human resources with enhanced capacities like, emotional resilience, improved attention, and right decision-making. However, the cognitive burden of multitasking, information overload, and constant digital distractions threatens productivity and mental well-being. Vipassana, an insightful mindfulness technique rooted in Buddhism, has been recognized for its potential to enhance attention, emotional regulation, and decision-making capacities. This study focuses on the evidence from neuroscience to support the claim that Vipassana has a positive impact on the areas of brain governing higher mental functions and emotions such as, the prefrontal cortex (PFC), anterior cingulate gyrus, hippocampus, and amygdala. These improvements are very crucial to fulfilling the goals of human resource development in 4IR where cognitive adaptability, improved focus, and stress resilience are critical. This article analyses classical Buddhist manuscripts and research in psychology and neuroscience to deliver a theoretical analysis and propose a conceptual framework to understand the role of mindfulness in modern cognition. Recent research has found that mindfulness mediations like Vipassana not only improve metacognitive awareness but also enhances emotional stability, promoting more thoughtful and ethical decision-making. Although limitation like lack of empirical data exists in this study, the in-depth analysis of interdisciplinary evidence provides a robust theoretical foundation. The findings advocate that Vipassana can serve as valuable tool for potentiating higher mental functions and emotional resilience in this digital age and suggest policymakers incorporate mindfulness-based interventions as part of workforce development strategies in Nepal and Worldwide.
Key words: Artificial intelligence, Attention, Decision-making, Fourth industrial revolution, Mindfulness, Vipassana meditation
- Introduction
The modern age of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), characterized by rapid advancement in AI, automation, and the Internet of Things (IoT) has reshaped global economics, workplace dynamics, and human cognition. A high stream of information flow and computational algorithms in decision-making systems have imposed a cognitive burden and information overload on humans leading to reduced attentional capabilities and decision biases (Carr, 2020). Modern research in cognitive psychology has revealed that humans have a limited capacity for sustained attention and can maintain focus on a particular task for a limited time (Shanmugasundaram, and Tamilarasu, 2023). The explosive growth of digitalization and the overflow of technology have brought new challenges in maintaining sustained attention and have made it easier than ever to get distracted (De-Sola Gutiérrez et al., 2016). Similarly, the continuous flow of digital information can reduce deep thought processing and enhance impulsive decision-making (Alon-Barkat and Busuioc, 2023). In this regard, the ancient contemplative practices enhancing mindfulness can offer a promising solution, fostering focus and right decision-making.
Vipassana, an insightful meditation technique with roots in Buddhism has the potential to enhance the cognitive faculties of human beings. The literal meaning of Vipassana is “seeing things as they really are,” and during practice one has to observe sensations, thoughts and feelings without attachments. (Bhikkhu Bodhi, 2011). This practice, rooted in Satipatthana Sutta has gained great attention in modern neuroscience for its capacity to enhance attentional capacities, emotional regulation, and metacognitive awareness (Tang et al., 2015; Hölzel et al., 2011). Scientific studies in last two decades have tried to explain neuro-cognitive basis of mindfulness meditation like Vipassana. For instance, longitudinal MRI base studies have demonstrated that long-term practice of Vipassana is associated with increased cortical thickness and enhanced neuronal connectivity in the areas of brain including the prefrontal cortex and the anterior cingulate cortex, pivotal for attentional regulation and decision making. Furthermore, various EEG studies have revealed that meditation techniques like Vipassana can enhance theta and gamma waves depicting their effect in memory, awareness and attention. These findings suggest Vipassana has immense potential to buffer the distractions developed by the digital era and can also foster the right-decision making in complex situation (Kakumanu, 2018). Integration of Vipassana in organizations may help in development of more efficient human resources who can maintain sustained attention, have a higher ability for information processing, and can make rational and empathetic decisions (Davidson & Dahl 2017). This article, grounded in both ancient wisdom and modern psychology and neuroscientific insights, develops a conceptual framework that emphasizes the role of Vipassana in enhancing human capabilities. By bridging the contemplative practices with modern sciences, this study seeks to address the need for holistic approaches to Human resource development in the era of AI and automation.
- Statement of the problem
The workforce in 4IR faces dual challenge: accommodation to new technologies and maintaining cognitive agility in digital distractions (like notifications and multitasking). Studies have indicated that interruptions during work lead to increased stress and a higher level of frustration (Mark, 2008) this can affect attention and decision-making quality among the employees ultimately affecting overall organizational performance. Traditional HRD approaches mainly focus on improving technical and soft skills which may not address cognitive burdens brought by flux of information and automation. Although various contemplative techniques have been implemented in different corporate cultures, the specific impact of Vipassana on these cognitive domains remains unexplored, particularly from neuroscientific and conceptual views. Thus, the problem addressed in this study are as follows.
- How AI and automation are affecting attention and decision-making in humans.
- How can Vipassana meditation enhance attention and decision-making from a neurocognitive perspective?
- In what ways these improvements can be implemented to empower human resources to better prepare organizations for the demand of AI and automation?
- Objectives of the study
- To review and analyze Vipassana’s theoretical foundations in Buddhist psychology.
- To synthesize neuroscientific evidence on Vipassana’s impact on attention and decision-making.
- To develop a conceptual framework that links Vipassana to enhancements in cognitive functions in the modern era.
- To propose HRD strategies integrating mindfulness for workforce development.
- Methodology
This study adopts a theoretical and conceptual approach. The methodology comprises of three components.
- Literature Review:
A comprehensive review of the Primary Buddhist sources like Satipatthana Sutta and commentaries like Vishuddhimagga, that emphasize the foundation of Vipassana meditation was conducted. Contemporary researche on cognitive psychology, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses were reviewed to understand the impact of mindful practices like Vipassana on attention and decision-making. Similarly, recent neuroscientific studies consisting of MRI, EEG and other imaging techniques were explored to understand the neuronal basis of Vipassana.
- Theoretical Analysis
The literature was thoroughly analyzed to synthesize the mechanism through which Vipassana meditation brings changes in cognition. An investigation was made regarding the mechanism through which Vipassana potentiates various areas of the brain responsible for maintaining attention and emotional regulation. Similarly, we examined the evidence describing the effect of Vipassana in more rational decision-making.
- Development of conceptual framework
After a thorough examination of available literature and extensive theoretical analysis, a model was proposed that describes the link between Vipassana meditation and enhanced attention and right decision-making and how cognitive and emotional enhancements can be employed in organizations to increase resilience and outcomes in high-tech working environments.
- Literature review and theoretical analysis findings
5.1 Vipassana in Buddhist psychology
Vipassana meditation is a mindfulness meditation articulated in classical Buddhist texts. The Satipatthana Sutta has focused on four faculties for the development of mindfulness (Sati)- bodily sensation (Kayanupassana), feelings (Vedananupassana), mental states (Cittanupassana) and the phenomenon of mind (Dhammanupassana). (Ānandajoti Bhikkhu 2011). By observing the evanescent nature of bodily sensations, feelings, the mental phenomenon, a person can get rid of his habitual patterns, and develop focus in the present moment fostering equanimity (upekkhā). Similarly, Buddhaghosha in Visuddhimagga offers a detailed framework of stages of Vipassana and explains how insight meditation progresses through various stages of knowledge (Vipassanā-ñāṇa), including knowledge of arising and passing away of the conditioned things (Udayabbaya-ñāṇa), knowledge of dissolution (Bhanga-ñāṇa), and the realization of equanimity towards all conditioned phenomena (Saṅkhārupekkhā-ñāṇa). (Nañamoli, 1991). These deep understandings regarding the process of knowledge synthesis and inherent truth in all phenomenon, can help enhancing attentional abilities and establishing emotional stability leading to better decision-making. Moreover, the Abhidhamma, has described how mindfulness fosters equanimity and stillness of mind, allowing the practitioner to observe the impermanence (anicca), unsatisfactory nature of being (dukkha), and selfless (anatta) nature of all phenomena. (Bodhi 2000). These insights broaden the perspective towards self, foster emotional resilience and clarity of vision, qualities that are essential to maintain the calmness of mind in the era of stress due to technological advancement.
Mechanisms in Buddhist Psychology
Anicca and attentional flexibility: Anicca, observing the arising and fading of sensations trains the mind to understand and embrace the flux, reducing clinging to the fixed outcomes. This is very similar to the concept of cognitive flexibility (ability to shift thinking strategy), one of the important cores of executive functions in modern psychology (Diamond 2103).
Anatta and decentering: Decentering is concept in cognitive psychology emphasizing that thoughts, feelings and experiences are temporary mental states rather than permanent identity (Fresco et al., 2007). Likewise, anatta in Buddhist Psychology emphasizes that there is “no permeant self” rather the thing that we perceive as self is a collection of physical and mental phenomenon (khandhas) (Rahula W 2007). Moreover, Vipassana trains one to observe the impermanent and impersonal nature of sensations, thoughts and emotions thereby further fostering decentering. This concept aligns with the Anattalakkhaṇa Sutta (SN 22.59), which states:
“Form, feeling, perception, volitional formations, and consciousness are not-self. Were they self, they would not lead to affliction, and one could say, ‘Let my body be thus, let my mind be thus.’ But because they are not-self, they lead to affliction, and none can control them.” (Bhikkhu Bodhi, 2000).
Sati and Meta- Awareness: The core philosophy of Vipassana stands on mindfulness of present moment (Sati), where practitioners witness their sensations, thoughts and feelings nonjudgmentally. This parallels with the modern concept of meta- awareness, the ability to observe one’s mental processes, i.e., “thinking about thinking” (Fresco et al., 2007).
5.2 Modern Psychological Perspectives: Bridging Ancient Wisdom and Cognitive Science
Mindfulness meditations like vipassana have gained profound attention in modern psychology as it enhances attention and mental well-being. Vipassana improves awareness through increasing focus on bodily sensations, thoughts, and feelings which leads to the development of clarity in thoughts, emotional balance and cognitive flexibility and hence enhancing attention and decision-making qualities. Jon Kabat-Zinn defines mindfulness as paying attention in a particular way in present moment without judgment (Kabat-Zinn, J. 1994). This reduces the automaticity of habit by learning to witness thoughts and feelings without reacting. In vipassana, the practitioner scans the body sensations from head to toe consistently without any attachment and aversion, this persistent act of paying attention improves selective attention (Delgado-Pastor, 2013). Similarly, such mindfulness techniques improve overall executive functions which consist three cores: Inhibitory control, the ability of selective attention to filter distractions, working memory, i.e., the ability to hold and manipulate information for a short time, Cognitive flexibility, the capacity to switch between the tasks and develop the creative perspective. (Diamond 2103). These qualities can help individuals control impulses and foster right decision-making by evaluating options analytically rather than merely acting on impulses.
The dual-Process theory put forth by Daniel Kahneman in his book Thinking, Fast and Slow (2011) explains 2 systems of thinking patterns which influence decision-making. System 1 operates automatically and quickly relies on intuition and emotions to make decisions leading to biases, while system 2 is slower and more analytical pattern that enables a person to pause, think, and reflect to overcome the compulsion and impulsiveness. Vipassana cultivates mindfulness and equanimity which trains the individual to observe their thoughts and emotional reactions, enhancing system 2 thinking patterns. This meta-awareness is vital for understanding and nullifying the cognitive biases in decision making too.
- Neuroscientific insights: the impact of Vipassana on brain structure and function
Vipassana meditation induces structural and functional changes in the regions of brain regulating attention and decision making. Neuroimaging studies have shown that mindfulness meditation increases the gray matter density in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) that regulates executive function of the brain, and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) that monitors conflicts and errors. These cognitive mechanisms are necessary for executing tasks in modern environment dominated by AI and automation (Hölzel et al., 2011; Lazar et al., 2005; Tang, Hölzel, & Posner, 2015). Moreover, the default mode network (DMN) (medial prefrontal and posterior cingulate cortices, anterior precuneus and inferior parietal lobule) in brain is responsible for mind wandering and self-referential thoughts but studies have shown that mindfulness mediation strengthens the coupling of DMN with dlPFC, (area enhancing attention), decreasing the activity of this network and improving the sustained attention by reducing the cognitive interference (Brewer 2011). This is again critical in 4IR, where constant digital distractions fragment the focus. Similarly functional studies using EEG in advanced Buddhist meditators have shown increased gamma band oscillation during meditation- a mechanism which can be linked with heightened cognitive integration and moments of insight (Lutz, 2004). These evidences from neurological research support the claim that vipassana brings more clarity in mind and establishes awareness. These structural changes in brain increasing synchronicity among the neural activities reflect the enhanced cognitive capacity, thereby facilitating attention and more improved decision making.
- What is attention and decision making and how these are affected in modern age of AI and automation
6.1 Attention and modern age of AI and automation
Attention is the cognitive process of selectively focusing on specific information or task while ignoring the distraction (Posner and Petersen, 1990). In contains various components, including alerting, orienting and selective attention which together determine the ability to focus on certain activity. In the present era of AI and automation the attention span is decreasing. Various AI driven platforms, including social media algorithms, data streaming, and continuously popping messages has fragmented the focus of human beings, enhanced demand for multitasking in work environment and reduced capacity for sustained attention (Rosen, Carrier, & Cheever, 2011).
AI systems are designed such that they attract the attention instantly, optimize engagement and often diminishing the sustained attention. For example, recommendation algorithms on platforms like YouTube and Tok-tok send hyper-personalized content and push towards compulsive scrolling, making attentional faculty of the brain highly vulnerable. This type of “continuous partial attention” decreases the ability to maintain focus on complex task. For instance, one of the recent studies has demonstrated the association between frequent task switching and decrease cognitive performance (Xu et al., 2023). Modern age of AI and automation compels a person to perform multitasking. A number of scientific research has reported the negative effect of media multitasking on the various measures of attention. Similarly, the studies investigating the neural corelates of multitasking demonstrated that there was reduction in gray matter volume in anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and increase in intrinsic connectivity between ACC and precuneus of parietal lobe of the brain (an area playing key role in mind wandering) (Uncapher and Wagner, 2018) as well as reduction in gray matter density in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dl PFC) (Loh and Kanai., 2016). These evidences suggest that multitasking enforced by digitalization potentially contribute to the neural changes in brain contributing difficulties in sustained attention and increased susceptibility to mind wandering.
However, different AI tools like Headspace app delivers personalized meditation prompts, improving the attention. Wearable devices, smartwatches remind for mindful breathing and enhance mindfulness. They can also mitigate the cognitive load of innumerable mundane cognitive tasks; freeing one to find the time for high order strategic thinking and tasks. But, over reliance on automation can lead to the conditions like ‘digital amnesia’ where one can lose the ability to retain information without the aid of technology. Thus, the modern technology is double edged sword, their proper use is required.
6.2 Decision making in the modern age of AI and automation
Decision-making is an intricate cognitive process of evaluating alternatives, weighing risk, and benefits based on goals and constraints (Kahneman, 2011). Decision-making is a complex phenomenon integrating numerous parts of the brain. The PFC integrates information, evaluates options, and plans actions, ACC works for conflict monitoring and resolving them. The orbitofrontal cortex assesses reward and punishment and the amygdala processes emotional responses influencing decisions based on fear, pleasure, or stress. Research in Mindfulness meditation has shown promising results in strengthening the integration among these areas of the brain responsible for decision-making (Tang et al., 2007, Holzel et al., 2011)
In the present scenario, AI can process vast amounts of information quickly with utmost accuracy, enabling faster decision-making. This particularly, is useful in various areas including healthcare, finance, and logistics allowing human resources to focus better in other more strategic areas. On the other hand, over-reliance on these automated systems develops overdependence on algorithmic output and may lead to development of automation bias i.e., decreased critical thinking ability and overlooking even the evidence based contradictory information (Horowitz and Kahn 2024). Automation has shifted the role of human workforce to supervising, interpreting and sometimes critically analyzing automated suggestions. This shift needs enhanced meta-cognitive awareness and improved executive functioning. However, stress and cognitive overload, common side effect of constant digital indulgence further diminish the ability in decision making, again making us more vulnerable to automation bias.
The role of modern technology both as an enhancer and underminer of decision making requires a balanced approach. While AI has excellence in structured tasks like data analysis, it lacks behind with ambiguity and ethical dilemmas (Topol 2019). For example, when asked about the capital of “Turkey”, ChatGpt initially responded, the capital of Turkey is Ankara. However, when questioned, “Are you sure?” It changed its stance, and replied, “Actually, many sources refer it as Istanbul due to its historical significance. So, the hybrid frameworks, where AI assists but does not replace human judgement are the demands of this era. Policymakers must develop AI literacy programs to cultivate adaptive decision-makers capable of interrogating algorithmic outputs.
- Conceptual frame-work: Mechanism of Vipassana in enhancing attention and decision making
Vipassana, an insightful meditation technique has been proposed to have a beneficial impact on different virtues like cognition and emotion. This conceptual framework is primarily based on the mechanism of action of mindfulness proposed by Hölzel et al. (2011). Mindfulness meditation like Vipassana, functions through four synergistic mechanisms.
- Attention Regulation and Cognitive flexibility
One of the main mechanisms through which Vipassana exerts its actions is the enhancement in attention. Paying constant attention to breathing and bodily sensations has potentiating effects in various parts of the central nervous system including dlPFC, ACC supporting sustained and selective attention (Tang et al., 2007). Different scientific evidences have shown that selective attention enables individuals to shift their perspectives, adjust to new demands and think in a more creative way, i.e., enhances cognitive flexibility. In modern work environment where rapid decision making is necessary, improved cognitive flexibility is very essential. For example, in the modern era overfilled with the information, professionals need to integrate and handle large volume of data and be able to make good collaboration with intelligent system. In such scenario, a mindful person can better maintain a steady focus on the relevant things, ignoring unnecessary data and thus maintaining equanimity and facilitating creative problem-solving (Tang 2015).
- Emotion Regulation and Decision-Making
Regular practice of Vipassana allows practitioners to observe inner experience non-judgmentally and without reacting impulsively. This harmony in one’s nature is developed due to neuroplastic changes in amygdala and insula, parts of the brain responsible for processing emotional stimuli (Holzel 2011). By downregulating the amygdala’s sudden and aggressive response, mindfulness interventions like Vipassana can help an individual respond a challenging situation with greater calmness and clarity (Kral et al., 2018). This ‘stepping back’ from the automaticity of habit of responding to emotional stimuli promptly can decrease the stress and negative emotions. This type of approach is crucial for ethical decision making in this fast-paced environment. Moreover, the improved functions of the prefrontal cortex can be correlated with higher control over emotions, thereby developing capability of weighing emotions rationally and more ethically (Holzel, 2011).
- Body awareness
Body awareness is the ability to observe subtle bodily sensations (Mehling et al., 2009). In Vipassana, the practitioner has to maintain persistent focus on internal experience including breath, and body sensations. The self-reported findings of Vipassana practitioners have revealed that they experience enhanced bodily awareness and augmented clarity in perception with this practice (Hozel et al., 2006). The neuroimaging evidences have also supported this notion as experienced meditators had increased cortical thickness and gray matter concentration in right anterior insula. Furthermore, an 8-week mindfulness training showed an increased gray matter concentration in temporo-parietal junction (TPJ), a region of the brain critical for developing first-person perspective of bodily awareness (Blanke et al., 2005). In a similar study, it has been observed that the same area of the brain (TPJ), is also responsible in social cognition and empathetic responses. (Decety et al., 2004). In another study, Tibetan monks with over 10,000 hr. of meditation experience had greater activation in both areas during compassion meditation. This also shows that the feeling of empathy and compassion and body awareness are linked neurologically as the same regions of the brain are active during these all phenomena (Lutz, Brefczynski-Lewis, Johnstone, & Davidson, 2008). Cultivating empathy, enables a person to understand others’ feelings more deeply, fostering ethical decision-making by encouraging compassionate and fair choices. These findings are in alignment with the teachings of Buddha which regards compassion as the foundation of ethical living, a perspective that modern neuroscience also supports (Decety et al., 2004; Lutz et al., 2008).
Similarly, it has been observed that increased awareness of body sensation has direct relationship with the conscious experience of emotions, leading to increased ability for emotional regulation. A Balanced emotional approach minimizes impulsiveness and allows equanimous evaluation of options, fostering thoughtful and ethical decisions. Similarly, heightened awareness enables an individual to detect even the subtle changes in their in their focus. This enhanced self-monitoring boosts executive function by filtering irrelevant information, thereby supporting attention, cognitive performance and better decision-making. (Blanke et al., 2005)
- Change in perspective of self
The Buddhist philosophy says that identifying oneself with a static concept of ‘self’ is the cause for psychological distress. Dissolving the static self-concept can lead to greater freedom and experience genuine way of being. When we continuously witness the awareness, a meta-awareness develops which enhances a detachment from identification with the static self (Olendzki 2010). Detachment from a rigid self-concept, similar to the decentering phenomenon of modern psychology, also reduces ego-centric decisions and fosters cognitive flexibility. Various self-reported studies of meditators have demonstrated that mindfulness training enhances positive self-representation, higher self-esteem and increased acceptance of oneself (Emavardhana and Tori 1997). These beneficial changes in self-concept becomes consolidated with increased meditation practice, reflecting healthier psychological functioning (Cloninger 1993).
This notion of change in perspective of self is also supported by various neuroimaging studies. For instance, Vipassana reduces the activity default mode network (DMN), a set of interconnected brain regions active during rest and self-centered thoughts, reflecting decreased engagement in habitual self-referential thought. At the same time, experienced mindfulness meditators showed enhanced connectivity within DMN in resting phase and between DMN and executive control regions of the brain such as ACC and PFC. These evidences depict that mindfulness not only decreases habitual internal narrative but also fosters efficient integration between self-referential and executive networks, potentially enhancing overall cognitive regulation (Holzel 2011).
These self-reported and neuroimaging studies imply that mindfulness meditations like Vipassana not only develop more positive self-concept but also help in developing the brain structures that enhance attentional regulation and executive functions. For instance, the evidences from MRI suggest that mediation makes neuronal changes reducing habitual self-talk or referential process and enables heightened focus. This improved attentional control is crucial for decision-making, as it allows individuals to filter out irrelevant internal distractions and make more deliberate, balanced choices.
Fig: Conceptual framework showing mechanism of Vipassana and its implication in HRD
- Strategies integrating Vipassana for workforce development
The application of Vipassana into human resource development (HRD) is an innovative approach for enhancing the well-being of the workers, increasing productivity, and overall performance of the organization. Vipassana practice is increasingly recognized for its potential to enhance cognitive functions including, attention, cognitive flexibility and emotional resilience, critical for decision-making in the present era of AI and automation. Researchers have found that mindfulness practices in the corporate world has a profound impact on employee well-being as it reduces stress, increases resilience towards the challenges, improves sleep quality, and enhance overall happiness and life satisfaction.
For successful integration of Vipassana among the employees, the organizations should adopt well-structured approaches that facilitate its seamless integration. One such strategy is to develop institute-sponsored Vipassana programs. Various corporate industries around the World have begun to form dedicated areas and time slots for workers to engage in mindfulness during free time, encouraging regular practice without disturbance in working schedule.
The organizations can further strengthen their Vipassana initiatives, by collaborating with the established Vipassana centers. This way, the employees can understand its core principles and can practice it under the observations of the expert. Such retreat centers can systematically teach Vipassana and can also ingrain the mindfulness culture in the organizations leading to a decrease in stress and developing ethical and compassionate work environment.
Another impactful strategy for the integration of Vipassana in institutions is to incorporate Vipassana into leadership development programs. Leaders who practice mindfulness show better self-regulation, cognitive resilience and empathy thus setting an example and inspiring diverse stakeholder groups. For example, in an institute, if the boss can work peacefully even in stressful situations, shows no impulsiveness and takes ethical decisions with compassion, the employees remain easily convinced regarding Vipassana. On the other hand, this type of transformed leadership can easily guide the employees through rapid technological change.
Various global organizations have integrated mindfulness-based mediations into their workforce development strategies. For example, Aetna, an American health insurance company has integrated mindfulness into their organization with over 20,000 employees participating. After years of integration, in their internal research, they found that there was an improvement in focus, engagement, and sleep quality and significant reduction in stress among the employees. According to their report, the mindfulness training program resulted in significant return of investment (ROI) as there was an average increase in 62-minute productivity per week, gaining $3000 in value per employee and a reduction in 7% of health care cost which saved $2000 per employee (Khalique, 2025). Similarly, various other multinational organizations, including LinkedIn, Google and Twitter offer guided meditation during working hours and have observed a positive return at both individual and organizational levels.
- Conclusion
The integration of Vipassana into organizational practices offers profound cognitive benefits, especially in enhancing attention and decision-making capabilities. Research indicates that mindfulness practices like Vipassana strengthen the important areas of brain including, anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) for sustained focus, and the ACC, insula, and various parts of PFC for emotional regulation. Such structural changes in the brain enhance attention regulation, emotional regulation, self-awareness and change in perspective of self, functioning as the basic mechanism of Vipassana. These changes mitigate the cognitive burden such as information overload, and automation bias, while fostering focus, engagement and right decision-making. Various organizations across the world have embraced the mindfulness program and have reported benefits including stress reduction, and enhanced well-being, focus, and engagement contributing to better decision-making process.
- Limitation
In the present, study we have referred to various studies which are based on mindfulness meditation techniques but very few studies are available, particularly in Vipassana meditation. Apart from that, many neuroscientific studies relating mindfulness with neural changes in the brain rely on small, cross-sectional samples with limited longitudinal or causal studies. Likewise, organizational case studies are mostly Western, highlighting the need for culturally tailored studies for the country like Nepal. Nevertheless, the present study suggest that Vipassana has significant potential for fostering attention and right decision-making, a critical weapon to tackle the overpowering technology of modern era of AI and automation.
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