How DeRose Meditation positively impacts the mental well-being of its practitioners

These were the final results presented by PHD Annabel Sibalis and PhD, C.Psych, Karen Milligan in the study DeRose Meditation Theory of Change for Mental Well-being – LINK TO STUDY.

Intermediate results, key factors and fundamental mechanisms of change produced by the methodology were also identified.

Intermediate results

The results come from interviews conducted with 13 professionals, including program leaders and instructors, and a survey of 77 DeRose Meditation practitioners, aged 18 to 65 years, with an average between 35-44 years.

The survey of practitioners consisted of open-ended questions as well as scientifically validated questionnaires: Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) – ®, Dispositional Resiliency Scale (DRS) –® and Self-Reflection and Insight Scale (SRIS).

The intermediate results identified from these people’s reports are:

• The increase in self-awareness,
• Increasing resilience and emotional stability,
• Positive changes in the body,
• Increased focus ability,
• Improved self-control.

Factors that influence the increase in mental well-being

Some factors that influence the change promoted by the Program were recognized, such as:

• the level of clarity and feasibility of achieving individual goals,
• establishing a positive connection with the instructor,
• the practitioner’s belief in the results the program can provide, and the recognition that its purpose is genuine,
• the practice itself and the practitioner’s ability to understand and apply what he has learned.

What are the fundamental mechanisms for improving well-being, relationships and productivity

In order for the Program to produce greater well-being and improvement in relationships and productivity, the fundamental mechanisms used are:

• training in breathing techniques,
• training in meditation techniques,
• creating a mindset for learning,
• be part of a supportive community,
• training in body techniques,
• access to concepts for a more present and meaningful life – shared in Mindfulness Design Program workshops.

Respondents with more than 4 years of DeRose Meditation practice reported greater ability to focus and be present in everyday life, as well as greater interest in developing their self-awareness. Moreover, the research detected that there is a relationship between longer time of methodology practicer and a greater sense of purpose and control over life itself.

In conclusion, this study also served to define the bases for future experimental research. But most importantly, with them we intend to measure the following aspects:

• Self perception,
• Resilience and emotional stability,
• General well-being or general health,
• Focus and attention.