Experienced meditators describe oneness experiences as involving changes in the sense of space (unboundedness), time, identity, wholeness, and flow, with these aspects forming an interrelated system. The study used a collective intelligence method called Interactive Management across five groups to identify and model these perceptions, which were consistent across sessions. Findings suggest that shifts in self-perception during meditation—toward a sense of non-separation from the world—may be a key mechanism linking mindfulness practice to well-being outcomes.
A new 84-item Oneness Experience Scale with 21 factors (e.g., Connection With Everything, Ego-dissolution, Peace, Compassion) was developed and validated in 764 adults (mean age 45, 63% female). The scale showed good internal consistency and construct validity, correlating positively with well-being, mindfulness, personality traits, and self-reported oneness. It is intended for research on mindfulness, spirituality, and well-being.