The Experiences of A Mindfulness-Based Workshop: A Focus Group Study

This study used a focus group approach, inviting participants to an eight-week workshop on mindfulness that met for two hours each week. The program integrated mindfulness techniques aimed at enhancing both physical and mental well-being. Research indicates that mindfulness can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression by promoting present-moment awareness without judgment. For many local Chinese Canadians, this concept was novel. During the focus group discussions, participants examined their relationships with food and reflected on their personal experiences. The study was co-facilitated by a social worker and a registered dietitian and included 16 female participants with an average age of 56.6 years. Four semi-structured interview questions guided the discussions, and content analysis revealed five key themes: (1) A new and exciting experience, (2) the practice is challenging and requires time, (3) transforming stressful situations into purposeful, healthy experiences, (4) regaining control, and (5) supporting one another. The findings highlight the transformative potential of mindfulness-based interventions, particularly in mindful eating. Participants found mindfulness engaging but recognized the difficulty of maintaining a consistent practice, emphasizing the need for long-term reinforcement. Notably, mindfulness allowed them to reframe stress as an opportunity for growth, fostering resilience. The theme of regaining control illustrated how mindfulness empowers individuals to cultivate healthier relationships with food and emotions. Additionally, the focus on social support underscores the communal benefits of mindfulness. This study contributes to the literature on mindfulness by demonstrating how virtual interventions can facilitate meaningful change. Future research should refine program delivery to enhance accessibility, engagement, and sustained impact.