Lived Experience of Substance Users Practicing Spiritually-based Meditation: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Substance abuse lowers quality of life and impacts individuals, families, and communities. Limited research exists on recovery through Rajyoga Meditation (a spiritually based meditation) in rehabilitation centers. This study explored the recovery journey of substance users practicing Brahma Kumaris Rajyoga Meditation.

Methods: A qualitative study with a phenomenological approach was conducted among 15 participants who were residing in rehabilitation centers and had attended the Brahmakumaris Rajyoga Meditation Program for one month and were willing to participate. In-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted from March to June 2025 in Biratnagar metropolitan city, Nepal, after obtaining approval from the Nepal Health Research Council. The interviews were conducted until data saturation was achieved. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results: This study identified peer influence, stressful life events, family conflicts, lack of support, psychological challenges, and behavioral issues as central experiential factors influencing addiction and the decision to seek rehabilitation. Substance users perceived that the center’s structured environment provided them with an opportunity to reflect deeply on their lives, enabling them to gain a better understanding of their past, present, and future. After practicing Rajyoga Meditation, they experienced shifts in physical health, emotional stability,cognitive perspectives, and spiritual understanding.

Conclusion: Following Rajyoga Meditation, the substance users perceived positive changes in various aspects of their lives. Spiritually based meditation, such as Rajyoga, may facilitate the development of coping mechanisms and enhance self-esteem. As an adjunctive component to standard rehabilitation strategies, it could potentially expedite recovery pathways for individuals undergoing long-term addiction treatment.