Prevalence and 20-year trends in meditation, yoga, guided imagery and progressive relaxation use among US adults from 2002 to 2022
Scientific Reports July 1, 2024 Jonathan N. Davies, Anna Faschinger, Julieta Galante et al. 45 citations
Between 2002 and 2022, the use of meditation, yoga, and guided imagery or progressive relaxation among US adults rose significantly. By 2022, 18.3% (60.53 million) practiced meditation, 16.8% (55.78 million) practiced yoga, and 6.7% (22.22 million) used guided imagery or progressive relaxation. Growth was widespread across sociodemographic groups, but people of 'Other' race (54% Indigenous Americans) and those with moderate psychological distress were overrepresented across all practices. Individuals with severe distress were more likely to use meditation and guided imagery or progressive relaxation. Meditation use accelerated among adults aged 65 and older, those not accessing mental health care, and less educated groups, suggesting unmet health needs.