An updated classification of meditation methods using principles of taxonomy and systematics

Abstract

This paper revisits the proposal for the classification of meditation methods which we introduced in our initial 2013 publication, “Toward a Universal Taxonomy and Definition of Meditation”. At that time, we advanced the thesis that meditation methods could be effectively segregated into three orthogonal categories by integrating the taxonomic principle of functional essentialism and the paradigm of Affect and Cognition; and we presented relevant research findings which supported that assertion. This iteration expands upon those theoretical and methodological elements by articulating a more comprehensive Three Tier Classification System which accounts for the full range of meditation methods; and demonstrates how recent neuroscience research continues to validate and support our thesis. This paper also introduces a novel criterion-based protocol for formulating classification systems of meditation methods, and demonstrates how this model can be used to compare and evaluate various other taxonomy proposals that have been published over the past 15 years.

Peace through health: traditional medicine meditation in the prevention of collective stress, violence, and war

“…There are many kinds of meditation methods, with different goals and var ying techniques, concluded Nash and Newberg in their updated classification and taxonomy of meditation methods ( 19 ). While meditation methods have unique goals and procedural techniques, a shared principle among them is the intention to cultivate a targeted, enhanced mental state ( 19 ).…”

“…Cognitive neuroscience reviews emphasize that since meditation procedures and goals differ, it is not surprising that empirical studies demonstrate contrasting neurophysiological changes associated with the types of meditation methods ( 19 , 20 ). Neuroimaging research shows distinct cortical and subcortical activation and deactivation patterns in different types of meditation ( 19 , 20 ).…”

“…Cognitive neuroscience reviews emphasize that since meditation procedures and goals differ, it is not surprising that empirical studies demonstrate contrasting neurophysiological changes associated with the types of meditation methods ( 19 , 20 ). Neuroimaging research shows distinct cortical and subcortical activation and deactivation patterns in different types of meditation ( 19 , 20 ). Based on electroencephalographic (EEG) patterns, Travis and Shear proposed three categories of meditation, providing a neuroscience-based taxonomy that corresponds with phenomenology ( 20 , 21 ).…”

“…Further, neuroscientific study of spiritual and religious practices (sometimes called neurotheology) indicates that prayer and meditation practices differ in their methods and neurophysiological correlates ( 19 , 22 ). Prayer is typically a form of communication involving expressions of gratitude, seeking guidance, or asking for assistance.…”

Which Meditation Technique for Whom? An Experimental Single-Case Study Comparing Concentrative, Humming, Observing-Thoughts, and Walking Meditation

“…This limitation has been largely due to the historical development of meditation research in the West (Schmidt, 2014). Recently, several proposals have tried to broaden the scope of research by describing and classifying a greater variety of meditation techniques (Dahl et al, 2015;Matko & Sedlmeier, 2019;Nash & Newberg, 2023). However, this greater variety has not yet been examined systematically.…”