Meditation practice for people suffering from existential isolation
The results of the two studies showed that those who practiced Zen meditation experienced a greater decrease in existential isolation and an increase in compassion for others compared to those who went on vacation.
The study, which was published in the Journal of Applied Social Psychology, revealed that the meditation group experienced a decrease in existential isolation and an increase in compassion for others, compared to the vacation group.
The sensation of being alone in the world despite having relationships with others is known as existential isolation. It is based on the idea that each individual’s experience is unique and cannot be fully comprehended by another person.
Despite the ability to communicate and form connections with others, humans are still unable to fully bridge the divide between their inner worlds. Existential isolation is distinct from loneliness, as a person can be surrounded by loved ones and still experience a sense of aloneness.
