Mindful Eating: Connecting With the Wise Self, the Spiritual Self
Jean L Kristeller1, Kevin D Jordan1
1Department of Psychology, Indiana State University, Terre Haute, IN, United States.
Frontiers in Psychology
|August 30, 2018
Summary
Mindfulness-Based Eating Awareness Training (MB-EAT) improved spiritual well-being and emotional balance in individuals with obesity. This enhanced spiritual well-being was linked to better eating regulation and mindfulness skills.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Mindfulness Studies
Background:
- Mindfulness practice cultivates wisdom for a sustainable relationship with food.
- Previous studies show Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) enhances spiritual well-being.
- Mindfulness-Based Eating Awareness Training (MB-EAT) aims to improve eating behaviors and overall well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if MB-EAT enhances spiritual well-being.
- To examine the relationship between spiritual well-being and emotional/eating adjustments.
- To explore the mediating role of spiritual well-being in mindfulness-based interventions.
Main Methods:
- 117 participants with obesity were randomized to MB-EAT or a wait-list control.
- Assessments included the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy - Spiritual Well-Being (FACIT-Sp) and Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ).
- Measurements were taken at baseline, immediate post-treatment, and 2-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- MB-EAT significantly increased spiritual well-being (Meaning/Peace and Faith) compared to the control group.
- Increases in spiritual well-being correlated with improved emotional adjustment and eating regulation.
- Spiritual well-being mediated the effects of mindfulness on eating regulation and depression.
Conclusions:
- MB-EAT fosters spiritual engagement, contributing to improved self-regulation.
- Cultivating a 'wise mind' through mindfulness and spirituality aids in managing disordered eating.
- Spiritual well-being is a significant factor in achieving lasting improvements in eating behaviors and emotional balance.
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