Mindfulness and the contemplative life: pathways to connection, insight, and purpose

Dahl, Cortland J.; Davidson, Richard J.

doi:10.1016/j.copsyc.2018.11.007

Cited by 53 publications

(34 citation statements)

References 40 publications

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“…Relating the definitions and cognitive mechanisms of practice types to the context of the present study, RNT can be hypothesised to be primarily affected by attentional types and to a lesser extent by nonattentional types (i.e. constructive and deconstructive) as they also strengthen meta-awareness, although more indirectly (Dahl et al 2015;Dahl and Davidson 2019).…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 90%

Meditation experience is associated with lower levels of repetitive negative thinking: The key role of self-compassion

et al. 2020

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The primary aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between meditation experience and repetitive negative thinking (RNT) in regular meditators with a wide range of experience, and to examine the extent to which self-compassion and mindfulness mediate this relationship. RNT is a transdiagnostic process that is implicated in the development and maintenance of several mental health disorders. Converging evidence suggests that meditation practice is associated with improved mental health and may reduce levels of RNT. Increased levels of self-compassion and mindfulness have been associated with decreased levels of RNT and proposed as theoretically consistent mediators by which meditation practice exerts its beneficial effects; however, they are seldom considered in combination. In a cross-sectional design, 1281 meditators (mean age = 44.7 years, SD = 13.9, 53.7% female) completed questionnaires about meditation experience, RNT, self-compassion, and mindfulness. Linear regression and generalised structural equation models were used to examine the data. Longer duration of meditation experience was associated with lower levels of RNT and higher levels of self-compassion and mindfulness. Meditation experience was associated with RNT indirectly through self-compassion, but not through mindfulness. The results offer preliminary support for longer-term meditation as a potential means for reducing the maladaptive process of RNT. Clinically, self-compassion could be identified as a promising treatment target for interventions.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 90%

Meditation experience is associated with lower levels of repetitive negative thinking: The key role of self-compassion

et al. 2020

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“…The literature on contemplative pedagogy is helpful in interpreting study findings. All three mechanisms—writing, the body, and mindfulness meditation—are contemplative practices—“efforts that promote human flourishing by training the mind” (Dahl & Davidson, 2019, p. 60). Contemplative practices include “stillness practices” such as meditation, “creative practices,” such as journaling, and “movement practices,” such as yoga.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Contemplative Pedagogy: Fostering Transformative Learning in a Critical Service Learning Course

Gardner

2020

Journal of Experiential Education

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Background: Research demonstrating the positive outcomes of service learning among university students is robust and some describe the impact as transformative. Purpose: To help me better understand how I can support transformative learning in my classroom, this study explored how an intergenerational critical service learning project fostered change among student participants. Methodology/Approach: Data consisted of reflection journals collected over 6 years from 228 students who participated in a course-based intergenerational service learning project and researcher field notes. Using a qualitative design and narrative methodology analysis took place over a 2-year period and consisted of a 3-stage process: deep reading, identifying stories, and re-storying to generate findings. Findings/Conclusions: Three mechanisms were found to foster transformation among students—writing as inquiry, embodied learning, and mindfulness. The two-pronged contemplative approach used in this course informs the way in which students experience the critical service learning project. Together, they provide a deep and transformative learning opportunity. Implications: Insights into course design and pedagogical approaches that support transformative learning.

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“…From this perspective, mindfulness, here including an important mnemonic aspect, can be seen as the foundation of the entire spiritual path. This point has been made recently by Dahl and Davidson (2019), and it has clear antecedents in pre-modern Asia, for example, in Tibet, with Paltrul (2003b, p. 288) who states: 'Only mindfulness disciplines one's own mind. Mindfulness is the root of all teachings' (sems kyi 'dul thabs thams cad kyi // rtsa ba dran pa kho na ste //).…”

Section: 'Mindful Wisdom' At the Levels Of Study Reflection And Culmentioning

confidence: 99%

Mindful wisdom: The path integrating memory, judgment, and attention

Deroche

2021

Asian Philosophy

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This paper discusses the Buddhist threefold model of wisdom which, on the basis of ethics, progresses from 'study,' to 'reflection,' to 'cultivation,' and argues that mindfulness plays a critical role at each of these steps, forming the common thread joining them together. Beyond opposing statically the mnemonic, conceptual, and attentional dimensions of mindfulness, this threefold paradigm of 'mindful wisdom' can serve to articulate them dynamically within the context of the path. The model is first examined with special consideration of Mahāyāna sources and its relation to the epistemic foundations of tradition, reason, and direct experience. Then, in reference to living Tibetan and Himalayan traditions, each step of wisdom is shown to rely upon a distinct aspect of mindfulness or presence: keeping in mind the teachings present, forming adequate represent -ations, and cultivating a presence of mind. Ultimately, the paper inquires into the emergence of self-knowledge and the integration of personality.

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Mindfulness and the contemplative life: pathways to connection, insight, and purpose

Cited by 53 publications

References 40 publications

Meditation experience is associated with lower levels of repetitive negative thinking: The key role of self-compassion

Meditation experience is associated with lower levels of repetitive negative thinking: The key role of self-compassion

Contemplative Pedagogy: Fostering Transformative Learning in a Critical Service Learning Course

Mindful wisdom: The path integrating memory, judgment, and attention

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