Nursing Students’ Experiences of Mindfulness Meditation through Famous Painting Appreciation and Singing Bowl Sound Healing: A Qualitative Analysis of Reflective Journals

Purpose: Mindfulness refers to paying attention to emotions, thoughts, and sensations as they arise in the present moment, with an attitude of openness and acceptance. This study aimed to explore the experiences of nursing students who participated in a mindfulness meditation program that incorporated famous painting appreciation and singing bowl sound healing. Methods: This qualitative study analyzed reflective journals written by 21 fourth-year undergraduate nursing students who participated in a sensory-based mindfulness program. The program consisted of a two-hour mindfulness meditation session utilizing famous painting cards and singing bowl sound healing, followed by a one-hour session focused on developing a mindfulness meditation program for cancer patients. Data were collected between April 10 and April 20, 2025, and analyzed using content analysis methodology. Results: Five major themes were identified through the qualitative analysis: (1) Observing oneself apart from daily life, (2) Reflecting on emotions through the inner mirror, (3) Attaining calm recuperation through a space for mental refreshment, (4) Resonance and solace settling on the mind, and (5) Recognizing the burden of being a nurse’s responsibility through internalized care. Each theme included specific subthemes illustrating emotional insight, self-awareness, and professional growth experienced through the meditation program. Conclusion: The sensory-based mindfulness meditation program effectively supported emotional stability and promoted deeper self-reflection among nursing students. The findings suggest that this approach may serve as a valuable educational strategy to enhance core competencies and professional identity development in nursing education.