Who we are
The Centre for Meditation Research (CMR-UOC) was established from the University of Colombo’s meditation research project. Funded by the World Bank, our multidisciplinary team investigates genetic, physical, psychological, and behavioral changes in meditators from Buddhist centers in Sri Lanka.
What We Do
We conduct studies to uncover the health benefits of meditation, develop and implement meditation-based intervention protocols, and facilitate resource development across various disciplines. We promote evidence-based policy changes to enhance public health, collaborate with national and international institutions, and share knowledge through training sessions, courses, and projects. Our goal is to become a center of excellence in meditation research.
Our Objectives
Our primary objectives are to advance research on the benefits of meditation, develop intervention protocols, promote evidence-based practices, and facilitate collaboration with other institutions. We aim to disseminate knowledge through training and strive for global excellence in meditation research.
Prof. Vajira H. W. Dissanayake,
Dean, Chair & Senior Professor of Anatomy
Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo
Welcome to the website of the Centre for Meditation Research – a pioneering center located in the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo where we are exploring the nexus between the mind and the body. In this center we are not only exploring the benefits of meditation through research but also helping those interested in integrating meditation into their day to day lives through meditation training. I encourage all of you to reach out to us, engage in our work and contribute to holistically improving health and wellbeing.
Prof. Dilshani Dissanayake,
Professor in Physiology
Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo
The Centre for Meditation Research was established as a development of the meditation research project of the University of Colombo (UOC). The findings of the multidisciplinary research project, funded by the World Bank, emphasized the potential for further discoveries about the benefits of meditation in health and behavior. The meditation research group investigated the genetic, physical, psychological and behavioral changes in experienced meditators recruited from Buddhist meditation centres in Sri Lanaka. The team developed meditation-based intervention protocols targeting diseases and the community. The interventions have promising results. The CMR-UOC aims to carry out, disseminate and promote multidisciplinary research related to meditation. The centre facilitates research and resource development related to meditation, involving institutions and researchers from all related disciplines in the UOC. The centre promotes evidence-based change to policy and practice. We facilitate research and innovations related to meditation practices that would improve and sustain human health and well-being. The CMR-UOC collaborates with national and international institutions and organizations to disseminate knowledge and practices related to mediation via training sessions, courses and projects. The main aim of the CMR-UOC is to become a center of excellence for meditation research.
