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How do different cultures and belief systems view mindfulness in therapy?

Corda Ludwikiewicz

Well, from my personal experience and what I’ve learned, different cultures and belief systems have varying perspectives on mindfulness in therapy. For example, in some Buddhist traditions, mindfulness is a fundamental practice that involves being present in the moment, cultivating awareness and non-judgmental attention to one’s thoughts, feelings, and sensations. Mindfulness is seen as a way to attain inner peace, happiness, and reduce suffering. Hence, mindfulness-based therapy approaches, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), have been widely used in Western therapy settings to treat mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and chronic pain.

On the other hand, in some Middle Eastern cultures, mindfulness practices are rooted in Islamic doctrines. A popular practice is zikr, which involves reciting the name of Allah (God) and focusing one’s attention on spiritual contemplation. The objective is to align oneself with God’s will, purify the soul, and develop a deeper connection with the divine. Similarly, in Hindu and yogic traditions, mindfulness practices are seen as a means to attain spiritual awakening and connect with one’s higher self. Practices, such as meditation, pranayama (breathing techniques), and yoga, have been used for centuries to cultivate mindfulness, balance the mind and body, and attune oneself with the universe.

In some Western cultures, however, mindfulness practices are often decontextualized from their cultural and spiritual roots and marketed as secular, evidence-based techniques for stress management and enhancing performance. Critics argue that the mainstreaming of mindfulness has commodified and diluted the essence of mindfulness practices, reducing them to mere coping strategies for individualistic and consumerist purposes. Furthermore, the appropriation of mindfulness practices in therapy can also reinforce systems of power, privilege, and oppression that exist within society.

Overall, it’s essential to acknowledge that different cultures and belief systems have distinct views and practices related to mindfulness in therapy. Therefore, when incorporating mindfulness practices into therapy, it’s crucial to respect and honor these diverse perspectives and contextualize them within the broader cultural, social and political contexts. This requires being aware of one’s own cultural biases and assumptions, being open to learning from other cultures, and collaborating with diverse communities to co-create more inclusive and culturally responsive therapeutic approaches.