The varieties of contemplative experience: A mixed-methods study of meditation-related challenges in Western Buddhists.

ABSTRACT: Buddhist-derived meditation practices are currently being employed as a popular form of health promotion. While meditation programs draw inspiration from Buddhist textual sources for the benefits of meditation, these sources also acknowledge a wide range of other effects beyond health-related outcomes. The Varieties of Contemplative Experience study investigates meditation-related experiences that are typically underreported, particularly experiences that are described as challenging, difficult, distressing, functionally impairing, and/or requiring additional support. A mixed-methods approach featured qualitative interviews with Western Buddhist meditation practitioners and experts in Theravāda, Zen, and Tibetan traditions. Interview questions probed meditation experiences and influencing

SUBMITTER: Lindahl JR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5443484 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature