Can meditation help the environment? : Examining cross-sectional associations between meditation goals and outcomes in experienced and novice meditators

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.

Preregistration: This study is not preregistered.