Mindfulness practice originated from Hindu and Buddhist traditions and has undergone significant transformation and expansion in recent years. In the late 20th century, mindfulness was reformulated into secular, evidence-based therapeutic methodologies in Western contexts. This shift has led to the widespread incorporation of mindfulness programs into healthcare, educational environments, and corporate settings worldwide. Moreover, the Westernized interpretation of mindfulness has been reintroduced to its countries of origin, where it is now recognized and embraced within contemporary frameworks. Japan is no exception to this phenomenon.
In recent years, Japan has embraced mindfulness programs. Although these programs are often characterized as Western, secular, and scientific, Japan’s deep historical connection to Buddhism has prompted significant responses from Buddhist monks. Some monks reject any association of Western mindfulness programs with Buddhism, seeing it as a distorted interpretation of meditation that fails to convey Buddhist philosophy. Conversely, some acknowledge the connections between Zen, other contemplative Buddhist practices, and Western mindfulness, valuing the goal of alleviating suffering in people’s lives. Nonetheless, both groups hold a critical view toward these programs.
Monks who are vocal about their opinions often express their views on contemporary mindfulness. They raise concerns about Western mindfulness programs, such as their lack of a holistic approach and failure to tackle the root cause of the issues. Additionally, they argue that these programs do not provide support for individuals facing adverse effects, such as trauma triggered by mindfulness meditation. In response to these issues, Japanese monks have been studying Western mindfulness programs and comparing them with their sect practices. They share their insights through books, academic journals, magazines, and newspapers. They collaborate with health professionals and business leaders, sharing their perspectives at conferences, seminars, and events, where they are respected and frequently invited to speak. They also lead meditation sessions.
This study aims to understand the reactions of Japanese Buddhist monks to contemporary mindfulness programs. Current research on mindfulness in Japan primarily focuses on clinical studies evaluating the effectiveness of mindfulness programs for various mental and physical conditions. Several studies compare traditional Buddhist practices with contemporary mindfulness. However, very few studies explore whether mindfulness programs are making an impact on Buddhism in Japan. This study includes the opinions of monks and the challenges they perceive in these programs. In addition, it aims to incorporate the views of other monks who are not vocal about mindfulness. First, it seeks to understand whether those monks know Western mindfulness programs and their growing popularity in Japan and worldwide. Second, it explains their perspective on the subject. This study begins with a comprehensive review of the existing literature on mindfulness in Japan and is followed by a questionnaire survey and interviews with monks from various sects.
The expected outcome of this study will elucidate the nuanced views of both vocal and non-vocal monks, shedding light on their awareness of mindfulness practices and their implications for traditional Buddhist teachings. Through the data obtained from questionnaires and interviews, the study aims to identify common concerns about the adaptation of mindfulness in Western contexts and its perceived impact on Buddhist philosophy. Ultimately, this study anticipates contributing to the ongoing dialogue about the intersection of traditional Buddhist practices and modern mindfulness.
This study examines the response of Japanese Buddhist monks to contemporary mindfulness programs, which have roots in Buddhist traditions but have evolved into secular practices in the West. While mindfulness has gained traction in Japan, the response among monks varies. Some reject its Western interpretations as distortions of Buddhist meditation, while others acknowledge its potential benefits, particularly in alleviating suffering. Concerns are raised regarding the lack of a holistic perspective in these programs, the failure to address underlying issues, and insufficient support for individuals facing challenges during practice. The research involves a questionnaire survey and interviews with Japanese monks from diverse sects to capture both vocal and non-vocal perspectives on mindfulness. The anticipated outcome is to highlight common concerns about the adaptation of mindfulness in Western contexts and its perceived impact on Buddhist philosophy, ultimately contributing to the ongoing dialogue about the intersection of traditional Buddhist practices and modern mindfulness.
Keywords: Mindfulness, Japan, Buddhism, monks, meditation