Research on mindfulness has greatly expanded over the years since early studies in this topic were done by western scientists. The exponential increase in research interest is obvious in the many applications and aspects of mindfulness under investigation. This slide depicts the stream of research that explores some of these applications. Currently, despite the wave of interest and the volume of studies, many methodological and important questions remain, e.g. meanings and dimensions of mindfulness, aspects of state and trait mindfulness, developmental applicability, teacher training, and so forth.
Note that stress reduction was the early, foundational entry point for mindfulness studies and the seed of much Western research. This parallels the ancient roots of mindfulness, which was seen as one important part of a wholesome and virtuous life and as a way to help relieve suffering. Stress is a contemporary word for suffering, so let’s see if stress and suffering is still a problem in our world today.