Work

Can Meditation Help the Environment? Examining Cross-Sectional Associations Between Meditation Goals and Outcomes in Experienced and Novice Meditators

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Objectives This study examined (1) differences in meditation goals between novice and experienced meditators, (2) associations between meditation practice and outcomes in well-being and pro-environmental behavior (PEB), and (3) the predictive value of meditation goals for well-being and PEB. We assumed that different goals—self-regulation (e.g., stress management), self-exploration (e.g., self-reflection), and self-liberation (e.g., compassion)—are linked to distinct outcomes and may clarify prior inconsistent findings. Method In a survey of 233 participants (102 novice and 131 experienced meditators), individuals reported their meditation goals, well-being, and pro-environmental behaviors. Results While both novice and experienced meditators equally pursued self-regulation, experienced meditators reported significantly higher levels of self-exploration and self-liberation. Meditation practice was associated with higher mindfulness, more intention-based PEB, and lower CO₂ emissions from meat consumption, although not with general well-being or other ecological impact behaviors. Meditation goals showed unique associations with key outcomes beyond meditation practice: Self-regulation was negatively associated with mindfulness and well-being and positively associated with negative emotions. Self-liberation predicted more intention-based PEB and lower meat-related emissions, whereas self-exploration was associated with higher mindfulness, lower intention-based PEB, and higher emissions from meat consumption. Conclusions The findings suggest that meditation goals differed depending on meditation experience and showed distinct associations with psychological well-being and PEB. These results highlight the relevance of motivational orientations in meditation for understanding differences in well-being and PEB. Preregistration This study is not preregistered.

Source: Mindfulness

DOI: 10.1007/s12671-025-02716-3

Authors: Zarah Rowland, Tanja Schmidt, Tobias Dolle, Theda Radtke, Thomas Kubiak, Mario Wenzel

Institutions: Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, University of Wuppertal

Language: English

Topic: Mindfulness and Compassion Interventions

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,090