Changes in DNA methylation after trauma processing and meditation in a large group setting of 1.6 years duration (Timeless Wisdom Training)

Psychological trauma is associated with significant alterations of biological functions and is correlated with epigenetic changes specifically of DNA methylation. Trauma therapy is aiming at relieving the impact of trauma and is in initial studies also correlated with changes in DNA methylation. In this study we explored the changes in whole blood DNA methylation of participants of a program focusing on individual, ancestral and collective trauma processing and meditation in a large group setting of 1.6 years duration. Based on accompanying questionnaires, training participants report slight improvements in anxiety, depression and overall life satisfaction and some mystical experiences. 3227 CpGs and 253 genes were found to be differentially methylated during the training. Although these genes are not involving any of the known trauma related genes and relevant gene ontology terms, they comprise a large number of genes involved in the nervous function, as well as in cellular and developmental functions, the immune system and metabolism. Also, epigenetic aging is predicted to slow down during training. In summary this pilot study yielded additional findings showcasing the potential correlation of trauma therapy and alterations of DNA methylation.