Envisioning a Future Contemplative Science of Mindfulness: Fruitful Methods and New Content for the Next Wave of Research.
Complementary health practice review January 1, 2009 Eric Garland, Susan Gaylord 45 citations
Mindfulness, an ancient spiritual practice and behavioral technique that fosters non-judgmental awareness of the present moment, is gaining attention across academic and clinical fields. To guide future research, four priority areas are proposed: developing performance-based measures of mindfulness, scientifically evaluating Buddhist claims, exploring the neurophenomenology of mindfulness, and measuring mindfulness-induced changes in gene expression. Integrating traditional meditative wisdom with advanced empirical methods may advance contemplative science.