Contemplam

Contemplam is a term used in some contemporary wellness and philosophical discourses to describe a structured form of contemplative practice designed to cultivate sustained attention, reflective insight, and cognitive integration. The term blends elements of contemplation and examination, with proponents describing it as a disciplined routine rather than a passive state.

Definition and practice: In typical descriptions, contemplam consists of three phases: focus, open awareness, and integration. In the focus phase, practitioners attend to a chosen object, sensation, or thought; during open awareness, they observe mental phenomena without judgment; in the integration phase, insights are reflected upon and considered for practical application. Sessions often run 15–30 minutes and may be repeated daily.

Origins and usage: Contemplam emerged in online wellness communities and informal philosophical discussions in the 2010s. It lacks a formal, standardized definition and is not adopted as a clinical protocol in major guidelines. As a term, it is used qualitatively to denote a method rather than a branded program.

Effects and reception: Advocates suggest contemplam can improve attention, reduce rumination, and foster creative problem-solving. Critics argue that evidence is limited to small, informal studies or anecdotal reports, and that the lack of standardized training raises concerns about consistency and safety.

See also: mindfulness, contemplation, meditation, metacognition.