Answer this question to the best of your ability:
Are there different types of meditation that affect working memory differently?
Yes, various types of meditation can impact working memory differently due to their unique mechanisms and objectives. For instance, mindfulness meditation is often associated with non-judgmental awareness of the present moment. This type of meditation has been shown to improve attention control and self-regulation, which in turn, can enhance working memory capacity.

Conversely, compassion meditation focuses on cultivating feelings of kindness and empathy towards oneself and others. While this form of meditation may not have a direct impact on working memory, it promotes emotional wellbeing and stress reduction, which can indirectly support cognitive performance.

Another type of meditation is focused attention meditation, which requires intense concentration on a specific object, thought, or mantra. This practice has been linked to increased activity in the prefrontal cortex and the anterior cingulate cortex - areas associated with attention control and executive functions. As a result, focused attention meditation can significantly improve working memory capacity.

In summary, different types of meditation can affect working memory through various mechanisms, with some forms promoting direct improvements in cognitive performance while others offer indirect benefits through stress reduction and emotional wellbeing.