Development of a brief mindfulness‐based intervention to improve well‐being: A theory‐, evidence‐ and person‐based approach

Background: Brief mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are shorter and less intensive than standard 8-week courses and could provide health and well-being benefits to participants while requiring fewer resources to implement at scale. However, brief MBIs are typically developed ad hoc and lack a clear rationale for the components they include. Our aim was to develop a brief person-centred MBI to improve well-being using a theory-, evidence- and person-based approach.

Methods: Mindfulness teachers and mindfulness course attendees were recruited to a mixed-methods online survey (N = 42) and an 'INDIGO' study (N = 21). INDIGO (INtervention DesIGn with stakehOlders) is a novel mixed method that combines timelining and storyboarding. Data were collected regarding attitudes to brief MBIs and MBI components. Data were analysed using qualitative and quantitative methods and combined with the Mindfulness-to-Meaning Theory to create a prototype intervention plan. This plan was displayed using INDIGO and presented to focus group participants (N = 12) for discussion and feedback. The intervention was then refined.

Results: The resulting brief MBI comprises five 90-min sessions and includes focused attention practice, informal mindfulness, the three-step breathing space, group discussion and psychoeducation. The intervention is person-centred as it promotes flexibility and participant choice, including different options for mindfulness practice.

Conclusions: The present study describes the systematic development of a brief MBI to improve well-being that could be deployed in diverse settings including primary care, public health and higher education. Further work is required to test the feasibility of delivering this novel brief MBI in these settings.