Risks of meditation practice
Eine Übersicht über aktuelle Forschungsergebnisse
Abstract
After the positive effects of meditation on health have long been the focus of research, there are now also studies that have investigated and documented adverse effects of meditation. This article provides an overview of (1) the spectrum of such adverse effects, which can range from sleep disorders, anxiety and depression to psychosis, (2) their frequency in clinical and traditional practice contexts, and (3) risk factors that may promote their occurrence, such as a history of mental illness, lack of guidance, or intensive practice in the context of retreats. The research findings presented highlight the importance of exploring potential adverse effects of meditation in more detail in order to educate people interested in meditation about the risks and what should be considered to make meditation practice as safe as possible.
