Questioning the Universality of Mindfulness-Based Programs: Reflections from a Self-Construal Perspective

Abstract

This short opinion piece raises an important point about the universality of mindfulness-based programs. The currently established mindfulness programs delivered worldwide are modeled mainly on the original Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program structure. Taken out from its original Buddhist context and developed in the West originally for Western practitioners, mindfulness techniques and definitions are now re-exporting back to Asia, gaining popularity in Asia. Studies in self-construal have pointed out the cultural differences between the West and the East. Hence the suitability of Western-developed programs would need to be re-examined. And there could be significant implications for the design and adaptation of mindfulness-based programs delivered across cultures.