What are the benefits of Buddhist meditation among regular meditators?

Abstract

The aim of the current study was to explore the subjective experiences related to the perceived benefits achieved through Buddhist meditation. Buddhist meditation is an ancient practice currently spreading throughout Western culture. The aim of meditation is to focus one’s mind on a chosen entity, eventually leading to a higher level of awareness, inner balance and more compassion. This phenomenological study analysed the experiences of Buddhist meditation practitioners. The study is based on four semi-structured interviews. The Buddhist meditators’ descriptions were categorized into four superordinate themes; ‘How meditation changed my Life’, ‘Executive functioning’, ‘Investigating the mind & body’ and ‘Finding peace in love’. The results of this research are consistent with existing research suggesting that meditation leads to enhanced personal well-being, and improved health. Findings might indicate that the experienced Buddhist meditators have incorporated the meditative state into their daily life as a normal state, an area warranting future inquiry.