LONDON: The Worldwide Independent Network of Market Research (WIN) has unveiled new insights from its Worldviews Survey, capturing the perspectives of 35,515 individuals across 40 countries, revealing a global rise in meditation practices. This increase is particularly pronounced among young people, reflecting a broader shift toward mindfulness amidst the demands of modern life.

As International Yoga Day underscores the importance of mindfulness in mental and emotional well-being, WIN’s findings spotlight meditation’s role beyond mere self-care. While often viewed in the West as a tool for emotional management, meditation’s roots in religious and spiritual traditions highlight its deeper significance, extending beyond therapeutic applications.

The survey reports a notable rise in meditation practice since 2018, with global participation anticipated to climb from 29% to 35% by 2025. This trend is especially evident in countries like Finland, Argentina, and Greece, where meditation practices have surged significantly. The data also reveals a negative correlation between age and mindfulness, with 40% of individuals aged 18 to 24 engaging in the practice, compared to just 26% of those over 65.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific and Middle East and North Africa regions lead in mindfulness participation, with 24% and 20% of people respectively reporting regular practice. However, significant variations exist across countries; over half of respondents from India, Pakistan, Morocco, Malaysia, Mexico, the United States, and the Philippines meditate at least occasionally, while fewer than 20% do so in Indonesia, Brazil, Norway, Poland, Turkey, and Chile.

Meditation’s appeal as a modern emotional anchor is evidenced by 22% of frequent smokers and drinkers reporting regular meditation, challenging stereotypes of the ‘perfectly healthy’ meditator. Additionally, those frequently experiencing stress, excessive worry, or feelings of depression, irritability, or loneliness often turn to meditation for relief.

Richard Colwell, President of WIN International Association, emphasized the growing importance of meditation in contemporary life. He noted, “Whether as a tool for managing emotional stress or as part of deeply rooted spiritual traditions, meditation resonates with modern needs. As we celebrate the International Day of Yoga, WIN hopes this research highlights how an ancient practice continues to evolve, offering clarity, connection, and calm in an increasingly complex world.”

In sum, the WIN survey underscores meditation’s evolution into a global, multifaceted practice, meeting diverse needs from stress relief to spiritual connection, and serving as both refuge and resource in today’s fast-paced world.