Exploring the Role of a Mindful Eating Module for Emotion Regulation and Behavioural Change : A Qualitative Study among Female University Students

Malaysia is facing a growing obesity crisis, particularly among women, due to unhealthy eating habits and lifestyle patterns. Despite global interest, limited research exists on mindful eating interventions in Southeast Asia, especially among university-aged females, who are vulnerable to body image concerns and emotional eating. This study addresses that gap by providing insight into a culturally relevant, gendersensitive intervention tailored to Malaysian female university students. This qualitative study explores the influence of "The Journey to Healthier Me" (TJHM), a mindfulness-based eating module, in fostering emotion regulation and behavioural change among female university students. Mindful eating, which involves focusing on the sensory and emotional experience of eating, has been recognised as a promising approach to reducing emotional eating and promoting healthier food choices. Ten female participants aged 22–25 completed the module and were interviewed to explore their lived experiences. Thematic analysis revealed four key areas of impact: eating habits, emotion regulation, concentration, and healthier lifestyles. The findings show that mindful eating enhances emotion regulation and self-restraint, thereby reducing stress-related eating behaviours. The TJHM module shows potential in promoting long-term healthy eating habits and emotional well-being. These findings may inform future mindfulness-based interventions in higher education and public health.