The Subjective Experience of Greek Women Attending a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program

Greek women who completed an eight-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program reported emotional and cognitive benefits, improved self-awareness, and positive changes across multiple life domains. The study of eleven adult women using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis found that group dynamics and the instructor's role were key to the experience, while maintaining consistent practice was a challenge. Despite this, all participants incorporated mindfulness into daily routines and expressed commitment to long-term practice. The MBSR program appears to be an effective intervention for reducing stress and anxiety, though further research on overcoming barriers to consistent practice is recommended.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Nowadays, people and especially women experience high levels of anxiety and stress in different areas of their daily lives with significant effects in emotional and cognitive level. The “Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction” (MBSR) program is a rigorously structured, scientifically validated eight-week protocol primarily aimed at managing stress, with documented positive outcomes across additional areas. This qualitative study examines the subjective experiences of Greek women who completed the MBSR program, focusing on their participation, benefits gained, and the integration of mindfulness into their daily lives. Eleven adult women participated in this study. Data was analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Analysis revealed multiple benefits of the MBSR program at emotional and cognitive levels, as well as in self-awareness, while positively influencing broader domains of participants’ lives. The significance of group dynamics and the role of the instructor emerged as key factors during the program, alongside challenges related to maintaining consistency in practicing the techniques. These challenges persisted after program completion; however, all participants reported incorporating mindfulness into their daily routines, expressing enthusiasm and commitment to maintaining these practices long-term. The MBSR program appears to be an effective intervention, delivering meaningful benefits to participants. Further large-scale research on overcoming barriers to the consistent implementation of mindfulness practices is recommended. Enhanced understanding of MBSR benefits could expand its reach, increase public awareness, and support its application in diverse settings across Greece and worldwide, with the broader aim of enhancing population-wide mental health and well-being.