Mindfulness Integrative Model (MIM): cultivating positive states of mind towards oneself and the others through mindfulness and self-compassion

An intensive three-week mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) increased mindfulness trait, self-compassion, and positive mental states toward oneself and others. The study tested the Integrative Model of Mindfulness (MIM), which proposes that mindfulness practice first boosts mindfulness trait, which then enhances self-compassion, and these together foster positive mental states. Results showed large effect sizes for these changes. The data support the MIM, indicating that mindfulness meditation sequentially cultivates mindfulness and self-compassion, which then appear to lead to positive mental states toward others and oneself.

Study at a glance

Abstract

There are more and more studies showing the effectiveness of Mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) in well-being. However, there are few studies that explore the mechanisms underlying this effect. The aim of this study is to present and validate the Integrative Model of Mindfulness (MIM). MIM main hypothesis is that mindfulness practice leads to an increment in mindfulness trait, which leads to an increase of selfcompassion, and these in turn, lead to increase positive mental states towards others and oneself. A MBI intensive three-week with non-randomized controlled group was designed. Participants (N = 87) were differentiated by meditation experience as well. The results show large effect sizes regarding the effect of MBI on mindfulness trait, self-compassion and positive mental states to oneself and to others. The data support the MIM, indicating that the practice of mindfulness meditation leads in a sequentially way to the cultivation of mindfulness and self-compassion, which subsequently appears to lead to the development of positive mental states towards others and oneself.