Mindfulness Research Trends: 55-Year Evolution

What is Bibliometrics in Mindfulness Studies?

Bibliometrics uses statistical and computational methods to analyze research trends. Unlike traditional reviews, it:

• Maps connections between studies
• Identifies emerging themes
• Visualizes research networks

Researchers Anuradha Baminiwatta and Indrajith Solangaarachchi used tools like CiteSpace to create visual maps of mindfulness literature growth.

Key Findings in Mindfulness Research Growth

Exponential Increase in Publications

• 1966: 1 article
• 2020: 2,808 articles
• Total (1966-2021): 16,581 peer-reviewed studies

Geographic Distribution

• USA: 50% of publications
• Recent growth in Asia (China, Iran, India)

Major Research Clusters in Mindfulness Studies

Historical Development

1. Early phase (1960s-2000s): Spiritual roots (transcendental meditation)
2. Middle phase: Scientific validation (Jon Kabat-Zinn's work)
3. Modern phase: Efficacy studies

Current Hot Topics (2016-2021)

• Moderating factors: What makes mindfulness more effective?
  • Practice duration/frequency
  • Therapist experience
  • Environment (outdoors vs indoors)
• Digital mindfulness: Apps and online interventions
• Mental health applications:
  • Eating disorders
  • Smoking cessation
  • Psychotic disorders

Emerging Trends in Mindfulness Science

Pandemic-Related Research

• Online mindfulness interventions
• Reducing loneliness during social distancing

Neuroscience Connections

• Brain changes from meditation
• Gratitude as "sister practice" to mindfulness

Future Directions for Mindfulness Research

This study provides:
- Visual roadmap of key publications
- Identification of research gaps
- Framework for new studies

Researchers can use these findings to build on existing knowledge and explore new applications of mindfulness practices.