Brief Mindfulness-Based Interventions: Teacher and Course Attendee Perspectives on Content

Abstract

Objectives: While brief mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) show promise, stakeholder involvement in their design is lacking and intervention content can vary substantially. The aim of this study is to explore stakeholder perspectives of brief MBIs, brief MBI content, and adapting existing MBIs. Methods: In this convergent mixed methods design study, 22 mindfulness teachers and 20 mindfulness course attendees completed an online UK-based survey. Twenty-six participants were female, and mean age was 50.8 years. Data from closed questions were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, and data from open questions were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Findings suggest a brief MBI could comprise five 80-min sessions and include focused attention practice, informal mindfulness, inquiry, psychoeducation, and 20 min of daily home practice. Opinions of some elements differed among participants, such as the body scan, poetry, and the sitting with difficulty practice. Four themes were generated from participants’ comments about their attitudes to brief MBIs, which were generally positive but expressed concerns about insufficient content and poor delivery. Three themes were generated about adapting MBIs, suggesting tensions between adhering to a curriculum and meeting group needs. Five themes were generated from views about the content and characteristics of MBIs, highlighting the importance of accessibility, teacher training, and participant safety. Conclusions: Brief MBIs may increase access to mindfulness training, yet there is a need for adequate governance and transparency regarding their strengths and limitations. Clarity and evidence of MBI mechanisms along with scientific literacy in teachers will support fidelity-consistent modifications.