Examining motivators and barriers to meditation practice among individuals with spinal cord injury: Insights from a survey study.

Nearly half of adults with spinal cord injury (SCI) report meditating at least once a week, with relaxation, curiosity, and improving mental well-being as common motivators. A survey of 94 individuals from a U.S. rehabilitation center found that app-guided and virtual individual sessions are preferred delivery modes. Key barriers include the inability to stop thoughts, lack of knowledge about meditation, and uncertainty about correct techniques. Physician discussions about meditation were infrequent. The findings highlight opportunities and challenges for promoting meditation engagement among people with SCI.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Meditation and mindfulness practices offer promising non-pharmacological alternatives for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) to improve their health and well-being, but integrating such practices into daily routines can be challenging. This survey study aims to identify motivators and barriers to engagement with meditation and mindfulness interventions among individuals with SCI. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among adults with SCI (N = 94) from a single large acute rehabilitation center in the United States. Results from the survey showed a strong interest in meditation among individuals with SCI, with nearly half reporting current engagement in meditation practices at least once a week. Motivations for starting meditation varied, including relaxation, curiosity, and improving mental well-being, such as reducing anxiety, stress, and depression. The preferred modes of meditation delivery included app-guided and virtual individual sessions. Specific barriers to meditation were identified, such as the inability to stop thoughts, a lack of knowledge about meditation, and uncertainty about correct practice techniques. Physician discussions about meditation with participants were infrequent. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the meditation practices and preferences of individuals with SCI, highlighting opportunities and challenges for promoting meditation engagement and enhancing well-being in this population. Limitations of the study include limited generalizability, reliance on self-reported measures, and lack of assessment of potential confounding variables. Future research efforts should focus on developing and evaluating interventions that address the barriers and promote the uptake of meditation practices in this population.