16. How Meditation Supports Mental Health at Work (e)

In Scandinavian workplaces, meditation was found to improve more than just stress levels. Employees who practiced Acem Meditation regularly reported better sleep, less muscle pain, and fewer worries—clear signs of improved stress management. But there was another surprising result: After six months of meditating, participants showed a reduction in psychological defense mechanisms—the unconscious strategies we use to protect ourselves emotionally. This is considered a marker of psychological maturity, making it easier to connect with others and respond more flexibly to life’s daily challenges.

Research references Hersoug A, Wærsted, M, Lau B. Nondirective meditation used in stress management. Nordic Psychology 2018;70(4):290-303. Hersoug A, Waersted M, Lau B. Defensive Functioning Moderates the Effects of Nondirective Meditation. Front Psychol. 2021;12:629784.