I have a confession to make.
And it’s simply this: I don’t publicise the fact that I practise mindfulness to some of the people in my life.
The reason?
At various times I’ve heard the criticisms that meditation is inward looking, self-indulgent and that it makes people more selfish and self-absorbed. These comments have never been directed at me personally I should add…
I know they don’t “approve” and I just think it’s pointless to bang at that locked door with the fist of an evangelist’s zeal.
Now, my focus for today was actually supposed to be about the clarity that meditation and mindfulness practices can bring but for some reason I decided to Google these criticisms… and I immediately found an article in the Daily Mail Online:
“Meditation and yoga worsen people’s egos by making them more self-absorbed study finds”
- "People have a higher opinion of themselves after the exercise and mindfulness
- Western Buddhism may encourage people to focus on their personal anxieties
- It may also promote self improvement rather than overcoming selfishness
- Self-centred people who meditate are likely to be more self absorbed after practice"
Needless to say, the study is a very small one and the hedging language of “may”, “likely” and “suggests” are common linguistic strategies to present an argument. The reference to self-centred people actually made me laugh. I would have thought any activity carried out by self-centred people might make them more self-absorbed. Game of golf anyone? Interestingly, the article goes on to make many positive comments about the benefits of both yoga and meditation. Read it for yourself , if you like: Meditation and yoga worsen people's egos by making them more self absorbed | Daily Mail Online
What's going on?
I’m left wondering about what’s behind these criticisms and why they’ve been used to headline the article in the face of contrary evidence. Fear? If so, of what exactly? Ignorance? I feel quite baffled.
Am I right to keep quiet about the whole business of Mindfulness or am I being a bit of a coward? Should we engage with these arguments?
My response...
Well, I think it’s fine to let your actions and behaviour speak for you in this case. If people want to know about it, they’ll ask.
And like any wide sphere of activity which seems to become a “movement”, you’re bound to attract a whole range of 
individuals. Nearly all of the people I’ve met through Mindfulness (and I’ve met many) were, and are, an absolute delight. They just want to find some moments of peace and balance in this challenging world, connect with others and help where they can.
I rest my case.
