Negative side effects of meditation

Given the rising popularity of meditation as a means to improve mental and physical health and wellbeing, it may seem surprising that meditation may also have negative effects. It is, however, even more surprising, how little research into such negative side effects has been conducted, while research into positive health outcomes is booming. Notwithstanding, research into such adverse effects is essential not only to dispel the notion of meditation being a “cure-all” or a “quick-fix solution” to all mental and physical health problems, but equally to address the sparse, yet concerning, claims in the media that meditation is “dangerous” and is “making us ill”.