Mindfulness and mystical experiences in Sufis and non-Sufis

ABSTRACT The aim of the current study was to explore mindfulness and mystical experiences in Sufis and non-Sufis. Purposive sampling was used to collect the sample of 30 Sufis and 30 non-Sufis from members of Muslim Institute Lahore and two government universities of Lahore, respectively. The instruments used were a mystical orientation scale and a Five-Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire. The results revealed that Sufis have higher mystical/ spiritual experiences than non-Sufis. Sufis also scored high on observing, describing and non-reactivity facets of mindfulness compared to non-Sufi while non-Sufi scored greater on acting with awareness and non-judging facets compared to Sufis. Overall mindfulness was greater in men than women. A significant moderating role of gender in the non-react facet of mindfulness and mystical experiences was also found. The study finds its implication in cultivating mindfulness among non-Sufis, so that through mystical experiences their faith could be strengthened and their well-being could be improved.