#CulturalAuthenticity

Buddhist scholars throughout Thailand are raising critical concerns about the commercialized Western mindfulness movement, warning that the popular emphasis on “staying present” risks transforming ancient contemplative traditions into oversimplified self-help products that ignore essential ethical, social, and philosophical foundations while potentially causing psychological harm to practitioners seeking instant stress relief rather than genuine spiritual development. The growing critique of “McMindfulness” culture challenges Thailand’s wellness industry to preserve authentic Buddhist teachings while addressing legitimate mental health needs in contemporary society.