| The effects of mindfulness and its clinical applications have been extensively researched. Mindfulness meditation is the intentional cultivation of open, nonjudgmental attention to the present moment. In both clinical and nonclinical populations, positive physiological, cognitive, emotional, and interpersonal effects have been significantly correlated with mindfulness cultivation. Mindfulness has become a core component of various psychotherapeutic modalities such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR).;Lovingkindness meditation (LKM)---a practice derived from the same Buddhist tradition as mindfulness meditation---is being increasingly researched. Lovingkindness meditation implements concentration and visualization techniques in an attempt to cultivate an attitude of benevolence towards the self and others. As with mindfulness cultivation, LKM has been significantly correlated with increases in positive emotions and reductions in physical and psychological distress. Research indicates that many benefits reported by practitioners of LKM have also been documented with individuals utilizing mindfulness meditation, even though the techniques and aims of each respective practice differ. This study sought to explore what, if any, are the differences in the reported effects of each type of meditation amongst experienced practitioners.;A qualitative grounded theory analysis was conducted with 8 long-term practitioners of both LKM and mindfulness meditation. Hour-long semi-structured interviews were conducted focusing on the cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and interpersonal aspects of both mindfulness meditation and LKM. Data was analyzed using a grounded theory methodology to answer the primary and secondary research questions.;A variety of themes were documented that described both the qualitative effects of Vipassana and LKM practice. Primary and common themes were discussed. The interface between the two practices was described. The unique as well as the overlapping effects of both practices were described. A model was posited that could account for the unique benefits of each practice, the overlapping effects, and the mutually supportive relationship between LKM and mindfulness meditation. Directions for future research and clinical applications were reviewed. |
