My mindfulness practice led me to meltdown (danlawton.substack.com)

Article summary

The author, a long-time meditation practitioner, recounts a traumatic experience during a Buddhist meditation retreat that led to a meltdown and subsequent diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder. The author suggests that the Western meditation industry has lost sight of the potential downsides of meditation, which are acknowledged in traditional Buddhist teachings. The article highlights the importance of understanding the risks and limitations of meditation practices. The author's experience serves as a warning about the potential dangers of intense meditation without proper guidance and support.

Main themes

• Meditation risks
• Buddhism and meditation
• Consciousness and awareness
• Mental health
• Spirituality and philosophy
• Industry corruption

What commenters say

• Some commenters argue that meditation should be practiced under the guidance of a qualified teacher to avoid potential negative effects.
• Others suggest that the concept of being 'conscious' or 'mindful' is nuanced and can be understood in different ways.
• There is disagreement about the role of Buddhism in meditation, with some viewing it as a religion and others seeing it as a philosophical framework.
• Some commenters believe that the meditation industry has become corrupted and prioritizes profit over the well-being of practitioners.
• The importance of being aware of one's thoughts and surroundings is emphasized, but some argue that this can be taken too far and become obsessive.
• The idea that one should meditate at all times, even during sleep, is met with skepticism by some commenters.
• Some argue that the benefits of meditation can be achieved through other means, such as simply being present and aware in daily life.