Improvements in the quality of mindfulness meditation practice over time are linked to reductions in anxiety and stress and increases in mindfulness, but not the reverse. Data from a randomized controlled trial with 48 novice practitioners from the general population who used low-dose mindfulness practices suggests that practice quality drives better psychological outcomes, supporting its importance even in low-dose and self-help programs.
Mindfulness meditation is widely practiced in religious and secular settings, with many studies suggesting benefits for psychosocial well-being. Yet little is known about dose-response effects—how often or how long one must practice to achieve specific goals. Recommended practice durations are becoming shorter, but the impact of this reduction on outcomes is unclear. This review critically appraises evidence from empirical studies, traditional sources, and contemporary teaching trends. It argues that previous studies' limited dose ranges and analytic approaches hinder understanding of dose-response. The authors propose a research agenda prioritizing dose-response questions, using designs optimized to examine how the relationship varies by outcome and individual, which could reconcile conflicting knowledge and tailor mindfulness offerings.