Body Scan, Sitting Meditation, Thought Meditation, or Loving-kindness Meditation: Perceptions of Formal Mindfulness Practices Among Young Adults With and Without Recent Self-injury
Mindfulness July 20, 2026 Julia Petrovic, Jessica Mettler, Julia Baran-Polansky et al.
Young adults with a recent history of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) report distinct challenges and preferences for different formal mindfulness practices. The body scan and sitting meditation, commonly used in therapy, can be difficult for those with NSSI, particularly due to aversive body awareness. In contrast, thought meditation was well-received by all participants, and loving-kindness meditation was especially positive for those with past-year NSSI. The findings highlight the need to tailor mindfulness practices to individuals' experiences with self-injury.