Mindfulness and resilience: The experiences of global majority students in a mindfulness intervention Programme at a UK university
British Educational Research Journal January 6, 2026 Amy Bywater, Helen Keane
A qualitative study at one UK university in 2023 explored how global majority (Black or Asian) students experienced a mindfulness intervention programme. Through four focus groups, four themes emerged: mindful resistance against external othering, embodied mindfulness and internalized oppression, mindfulness as visibility and collective healing, and comfort in connection. Students turned discriminatory experiences into growth narratives; connection to family and friends served as a protective mechanism. The findings suggest universities should provide opportunities for global majority students to share accountability for their mental health and highlight the importance of wellbeing support for those with protected characteristics.