Dialectics of mindfulness: implications for western medicine.
Sebastian Sauer, Siobhan Lynch, Harald Walach, Niko Kohls
Philos Ethics Humanit Med May 17, 2011 DOI: 10.1186/1747-5341-6-10 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Meditation |
| Citations | 51 |
| Key points | Argues that mindfulness is based on five dialectical paradoxes that must be understood to avoid limiting the benefit of mindfulness-based interventions. |
Abstract
Mindfulness as a clinical and nonclinical intervention for a variety of symptoms has recently received a substantial amount of interest. Although the application of mindfulness appears straightforward and its effectiveness is well supported, the concept may easily be misunderstood. This misunderstanding may severely limit the benefit of mindfulness-based interventions. It is therefore necessary to understand that the characteristics of mindfulness are based on a set of seemingly paradoxical structures. This article discusses the underlying paradox by disentangling it into five dialectical positions - activity vs. passivity, wanting vs. non-wanting, changing vs. non-changing, non-judging vs. non-reacting, and active acceptance vs. passive acceptance, respectively. Finally, the practical implications for the medical professional as well as potential caveats are discussed.