Universal Compassionate Love as a Psychospiritual Framework for Understanding the Effects of Loving-Kindness (Metta) Meditation: A Theoretical Review
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) June 15, 2026 Singh Mohan, Tiwari Himalaya, Kumkaria Bodhraj et al.
Loving-Kindness Meditation (LKM), a Buddhist practice for developing unconditional goodwill and compassion, may improve emotional functioning, psychological well-being, and stress regulation. This theoretical review proposes that LKM cultivates the four Brahmavihāras (loving-kindness, compassion, sympathetic joy, and equanimity), leading to a higher-order state called Universal Compassionate Love (UCL). Compassion, self-compassion, empathy, and social connectedness are seen as expressions of this universal caring. The review suggests LKM enhances both hedonic and eudaimonic well-being and helps regulate stress, including effects on cortisol and heart rate variability. It presents an integrative model and roadmap for future research.