Mindfulness meditation has become increasingly popular in West for its ability to help people become more present, and less likely to dwell obsessively on the past or future.
Stemming from ancient Buddhist meditation approaches, the technique helps us cut through negative thought patterns to see things more objectively. It's a remarkably simple practice, yet not easy, and the cumulative results can be transformative.
Although the technique can be helpful for anyone, it can be especially useful for those sinking under the weight of their habitually negative outlook on life, for whatever reason.
Now, new research adds growing scientific credence to Mindfulness Meditation as an effective treatment for depression.
The study, funded by the Medical Research Council, found that MBCT (Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy) is actually more effective than medication in improving quality of life among those suffering from depression.
The London Buddhist Centre has been teaching mindfulness for a while and recently won government funding for its Breathing Space project, which uses mindfulness-based therapies to prevent relapse into depression and drug or alcohol addiction.
On a more general level, the fabulous Gaia House retreat centre in Devon runs regular courses on mindfulness, and general meditation, while the University of Bangor runs a new Master's programme on the subject.
It's wonderful to see simple, though potentially life-changing meditation techniques receive the backing of science. Anything that helps depression sufferers rely less on drugs, and more on their own internal resources, is to be applauded all the way.
More articles on meditation:
Meditation: unravelling the myths
Meditation: top tips to get started
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