Can meditation help the environment? : Examining cross-sectional associations between meditation goals and outcomes in experienced and novice meditators
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Abstract
Objectives:
This study examined (1) differences in meditation goals between novice and experienced meditators, (2) associations between meditation practice and outcomes in well-being and pro-environmental behavior (PEB), and (3) the predictive value of meditation goals for well-being and PEB. We assumed that different goals—self-regulation (e.g., stress management), self-exploration (e.g., self-reflection), and self-liberation (e.g., compassion)—are linked to distinct outcomes and may clarify prior inconsistent findings.
Method:
In a survey of 233 participants (102 novice and 131 experienced meditators), individuals reported their meditation goals, well-being, and pro-environmental behaviors.
Results:
While both novice and experienced meditators equally pursued self-regulation, experienced meditators reported significantly higher levels of self-exploration and self-liberation. Meditation practice was associated with higher mindfulness, more intention-based PEB, and lower CO₂ emissions from meat consumption, although not with general well-being or other ecological impact behaviors. Meditation goals showed unique associations with key outcomes beyond meditation practice: Self-regulation was negatively associated with mindfulness and well-being and positively associated with negative emotions. Self-liberation predicted more intention-based PEB and lower meat-related emissions, whereas self-exploration was associated with higher mindfulness, lower intention-based PEB, and higher emissions from meat consumption.
Conclusions:
The findings suggest that meditation goals differed depending on meditation experience and showed distinct associations with psychological well-being and PEB. These results highlight the relevance of motivational orientations in meditation for understanding differences in well-being and PEB.
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This study is not preregistered.
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Mindfulness, 16, Springer, Berlin; Heidelberg ; New York, 2025, https://doi.org/10.1007/s12671-025-02716-3