How Many People Meditate In The World? In 2018 & 2017?

The Surging Popularity of Meditation Across the Globe

Meditation, oftentimes seen as the soul’s gym, has been rapidly staking its claim on the global stage, charming millions with its promises of peace, clarity, and mindfulness. It’s an ancient practice, but its appeal remains timeless, particularly in our modern world that’s buzzing with unceasing stimuli. Amid this cacophony, a simple question arises: just how many folks are giving meditation a whirl?

A Snapshot of Meditation’s Rising Tide

Diving into the numbers, it’s clear that meditation isn’t just enjoying a moment in the sun; it’s practically sunbathing! Though pinpointing the exact figure is as tricky as catching fog, various studies and surveys provide a window into this growing phenomenon.

In the years 2017 and 2018, meditation saw a remarkable surge in popularity, particularly in Western societies where the hustle and bustle lifestyle left many yearning for tranquility. According to a research report released by the CDC, the percentage of Americans who said they practiced meditation skyrocketed from 4.1% in 2012 to a whopping 14.2% in 2017. Meanwhile, across the pond and elsewhere, similar upticks were noted as meditation apps, workshops, and retreats proliferated.

While exact global figures for 2017 and 2018 are somewhat elusive, considering the notable upswing in the U.S., it’s reasonable to infer that the global meditation community also experienced significant growth during these years. It would not be far-fetched to estimate that hundreds of millions of people worldwide have at least dabbled in meditation by 2018, propelled by a collective pursuit of wellness and an antidote to the digital age’s relentless pace.

Why the World is Turning to Meditation

The reasons behind this global embrace of meditation are as varied as the individuals practicing it. From stress reduction and improved focus to deeper self-awareness and better health, the benefits of meditation are well-documented and vast. Add to this the accessibility factor—thanks to digital platforms, guided meditation sessions are just a tap away, democratizing access to what was once considered esoteric knowledge.

Moreover, the increasingly secular and flexible approach to meditation has played a significant role in its adoption. Gone are the days when meditation was the sole preserve of monks in monasteries. Today, it transcends age, culture, and religion, appealing to anyone with a few minutes to spare and a desire for some inner peace.

The Path Ahead

While it’s fascinating to reflect on the meditation boom of the recent past, what’s even more exciting is the potential for its future. As research continues to uncover the myriad benefits of meditation, it’s plausible to predict that its popularity will only ascend. Whether through schools incorporating mindfulness practices, corporations offering meditation breaks, or individuals seeking a solitary moment of Zen, the meditation movement is poised for continued growth.

In essence, the question isn’t just about how many people are meditating now, but how many more will join this wave of mindful living in the years to come. As we forge ahead, it’s clear that meditation, with its profound simplicity and depth, is more than a fleeting trend—it’s a testament to humanity’s perennial quest for inner harmony in an ever-changing world. Evidently, meditation’s appeal lies not in the numbers, but in its timeless capacity to enrich the human experience, one mindful breath at a time.