Mindfulness, Spirituality & Religion: Two Views United

Mindfulness is more than calming the mind — it can connect us with something deeper. Two recent reviews explore how mindfulness ties to flourishing (positive psychology), and how religion and spirituality play into mindfulness itself. Together, they point toward mindfulness being not just a tool for peace, but one for meaning. What Each Review Explores The first review looks at “positive mindfulness interventions” — mindfulness programs that aim for more than symptom relief. It asks: can mindfulness help people thrive, not just heal? The second review focuses on how religion and spirituality show up in mindfulness practices. It digs into how belief systems, religious rituals, spiritual values, and meanings contribute (or sometimes don’t contribute) to how people experience mindfulness. Key Findings from Positive Psychology Review • Many mindfulness programs do uplift hedonic well-being — things like joy, reduced distress, positive feelings. • There are also gains in eudaimonic well-being — meaning, relationships, self-esteem. • Some programs like Self-Compassion or Loving Kindness combine mindfulness with elements like gratitude or purpose, showing stronger benefits. • But, most interventions still treat flourishing as secondary — the main goal is often to reduce symptoms, with positive states being side effects. Key Findings on Religion & Spirituality in Mindfulness From what the second review suggests: • Mindfulness practices are often rooted in religious traditions (e.g. Buddhism), and many people bring their spiritual or religious beliefs into mindfulness. • Religion can shape how mindfulness is understood — for some, it’s part of faith, ritual, or spiritual growth; for others, it’s a secular tool. • Spiritual values — compassion, connectedness, purpose — often enrich mindfulness practice, making it deeper. • But there are challenges: some people feel tension when merging secular mindfulness with religious beliefs; others worry about cultural misappropriation or losing traditional meaning. Why It All Protects Us Against Flatness Combining the two reviews gives a clearer picture: • When mindfulness is tied to positive psychology and spiritual meaning, its effects are richer. Joy + purpose + connection > just relaxation. • Spirituality or religious framing can offer ethical or moral anchor points — helping people sustain their practice even when it’s challenging. • But not everyone wants religious framing; people differ. So mindfulness offerings should allow space — either secular or spiritual — depending on what people need. Practical Suggestions for Anyone Trying Mindfulness Now • If you meditate, try reflecting on why you do it: is it for relief, or for meaning, or both? • Explore spiritual values that matter to you — compassion, kindness, faith, forgiveness — and weave them into your mindfulness. • Be mindful of your cultural or religious roots — they can add richness. If you feel tension, it’s okay to take what serves you and leave rest. • Let your practice be flexible: some sessions for calm, others for gratitude or spiritual reflection. Mindfulness isn’t just about quieting the noise. When paired with purpose, values, and sometimes religion or spirituality, it helps us live more deeply. It grounds us, connects us, and helps us be both at peace and alive.