Why Calling It "Meditation" Matters
Estimated Reading Time: 7 minutes
Mindfulness has become a buzzword in schools, and for good reason—it has the power to calm students, foster focus, and improve emotional well-being. But as educators, we have a responsibility to ensure that the way we incorporate mindfulness honors its cultural origins. One significant step? Calling it "meditation" rather than renaming it to fit into a modern classroom context.
The Cultural Roots of Meditation
Meditation is not a new trend or a Western invention. It’s a deeply rooted practice that spans millennia, with origins in cultures and religions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and Indigenous traditions. These practices are grounded in spiritual, philosophical, and holistic approaches to life, emphasizing self-awareness, connection, and respect for all beings.
When we rename meditation as a “brain break” or “mindful moment,” we risk erasing its rich cultural history. While these terms might make it more palatable for certain settings, they can also dilute the practice, stripping it of its depth and meaning.
Why the Name Matters
The word “meditation” itself has historical significance. It stems from the Latin term meditatum, meaning “to ponder.” By using its true name, we acknowledge its global roots and honor the traditions that brought us this powerful practice.
Here’s why it’s important to stick with “meditation”:
Cultural Respect: Using the correct term acknowledges the diverse cultures that have contributed to meditation’s development.
Educational Opportunity: Calling it meditation provides a chance to teach students about its origins, fostering cultural awareness and appreciation.
Avoiding Appropriation: Renaming meditation risks reducing it to a trendy activity, ignoring its deeper significance and connection to spiritual traditions.
But What About Resistance?
Some educators worry that calling it meditation might spark resistance, especially from parents concerned about its religious associations. However, this is an opportunity to clarify: In the classroom, meditation is a secular practice supported by science, not a religious one.
Explain that meditation improves focus, emotional regulation, and learning—skills that are vital for academic success and personal growth. Reframing it as a scientifically supported tool, while keeping its true name, allows you to honor its roots while addressing concerns.
Balancing Cultural Respect with Accessibility
While we want to make meditation accessible, we must do so thoughtfully. Alternatives like “Mindful Minutes” or “mindfulness exercises” can be used sparingly, but they should complement—not replace—the term “meditation.” These terms can act as bridges for those new to the practice, but educators should strive to emphasize the authentic name whenever possible.
Here’s how to strike the balance:
Educate Students: Use meditation as an opportunity to teach its history and significance. Discuss its cultural origins and how it has evolved over time.
Provide Context: Frame meditation as a universal practice with secular applications in the classroom, while highlighting its diverse roots.
Use Both Terms: Introduce students to terms like “Mindful Minutes” but reinforce that they are engaging in meditation, explaining the importance of the word itself.
Mindful Teaching: Honoring the Practice
By respecting the roots of meditation, educators foster an environment of inclusivity and cultural awareness. Mindfulness isn’t just a tool for self-regulation—it’s a bridge to understanding the world’s diverse traditions.
When we call meditation by its rightful name, we send a message to our students: that honoring history and culture matters, even in small ways. In doing so, we prepare them not only for academic success but for a life of empathy, respect, and global awareness.