Exploring the Growth and Impact of Contemporary Mindfulness Programs in Japanese Society
Shreya Wagh
JAPANESE SOCIETY AND CULTURE March 18, 2025 DOI: 10.52882/2434-1738-0703 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Meditation |
| Keywords | Contemporary society Psychotherapist Social science |
| Key findings | Mindfulness programs in Japan have grown significantly since the 21st century, particularly after 2016, and have developed a unique approach influenced by Western adaptations. |
Abstract
In today's fast-paced world, mindfulness practice offers a peaceful way to enhance awareness and find clarity in the mind. This practice, rooted in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, aims to achieve spiritual enlightenment. In the late 20th century, mindfulness was adapted into secular, evidence-based therapeutic interventions in the West, leading to its widespread inclusion in healthcare, education, and corporate settings globally. The Westernized version of mindfulness has also been reintroduced to its countries of origin. Japan is no exception. The purpose of this article is to comprehend the rise and growth of mindfulness programs in Japan by analyzing existing literature, particularly books and research articles, and examining the organizations that offer mindfulness programs. Mindfulness-based interventions and programs gained popularity in Japan in the 21st century, spreading to the general population after 2016. They have become associated with various practices, including health programs, yoga, psychotherapy, corporate training, and Zen meditation. While the influence of the West sparked interest in mindfulness programs in Japan, the country has developed its unique approach over time. The growth of mindfulness programs in Japan is evident, and it may create an opportunity for Japan to reconnect with Buddhism.
Comparable studies
Other narrative reviews on meditation, most cited first.
| Study | Year | Design | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mindfulness training as a clinical intervention: A conceptual and empirical review. Clinical populations | 2003 | Review | |
| Mindfulness: Theoretical Foundations and Evidence for its Salutary Effects | 2007 | Review | |
| Mindfulness Interventions | 2016 | Review | |
| Mind the Hype: A Critical Evaluation and Prescriptive Agenda for Research on Mindfulness and Meditation | 2017 | Review | |
| Mindfulness and acceptance: expanding the cognitive-behavioral tradition | 2005 | Review |
Citations in the library
Cites 9
- Conceptual and methodological issues in research on mindfulness and meditation. American Psychologist October 1, 2015
- What does mindfulness really mean? A canonical perspective Contemporary Buddhism May 1, 2011
- Too Early to Tell: The Potential Impact and Challenges—Ethical and Otherwise—Inherent in the Mainstreaming of Dharma in an Increasingly Dystopian World Mindfulness June 29, 2017
- Trends and Developments in Mindfulness Research over 55 Years: A Bibliometric Analysis of Publications Indexed in Web of Science Mindfulness July 16, 2021
- On the Buddhist roots of contemporary non-religious mindfulness practice: Moving beyond sectarian and essentialist approaches Temenos December 11, 2019
and 4 more in the library