Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction and Transcendental Meditation: Current State of Research

This review examines the state of research on mindfulness-based stress reduction and transcendental meditation. Although many studies have methodological problems, consistent evidence indicates that meditation can alter the nervous system and physiology and improve psychological well-being. Evidence for treating specific clinical diseases is mixed and preliminary, so strong recommendations cannot be made. More research is needed, and the evidence supporting mindfulness-based stress reduction is stronger than that for transcendental meditation.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This article summarizes the current state of meditation research, specifically focusing on mindfulness-based stress reduction and transcendental meditation. Despite significant methodological problems with the studies reported to date on the subject, there is consistent evidence that meditation can produce changes in the nervous system and physiology of the meditator, and can help with various psychological markers of well-being. Regarding improvement in specific clinical diseases, research is generally mixed and preliminary. Strong recommendations cannot be made based on current evidence, and further studies are needed. In general, there is a stronger body of evidence supporting mindfulness-based stress reduction than for transcendental meditation.