Think meditation is harmless? New research suggests otherwise

Meditation has been discussed by many to have a calming effect on the body. Some even claim that meditation helped them reset their mind and body after a stressful day. 

 

However, a study has explored the possible side effects of meditation. "This is the kind of research that is done at the very beginning of developing any new treatment intervention program," says Nicholas Van Dam, a psychologist at the University of Melbourne. 

 

According to a report in Science Daily, while many people report positive outcomes, research have also revealed that meditation can lead to adverse experiences for some individuals. These may include panic attacks, intrusive or distressing memories related to past trauma, and in more extreme cases, sensations of depersonalisation or dissociation.

 

About the study:

The study published in Clinical Psychological Science recruited nearly 900 adults from across the United States. The result revealed that nearly 60 per cent of US meditators reported at least one side effect listed on the checklist. About 30 per cent said they experienced effects that were challenging or distressing, and 9 per cent reported that these effects caused functional impairment.

 

Several potential risk factors were also identified through the study. "Our conclusions are not that people should be terrified, or that people should not try meditation. It's really that we think that we should do a better job of providing informed consent," says Van Dam. 

 

For more information, consult a health expert. 

 

Health