Mindfulness-Informed Guided Imagery to Target Physical Activity: A Mixed Method Feasibility and Acceptability Pilot...

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Science
• Mind-Body Medicine
• Health Psychology

Background:

• Chronic underactivity is a significant public health concern, despite the known benefits of physical activity.
• Integrative approaches combining mindfulness and neurobiological models show promise for enhancing physical activity interventions.
• Mindfulness cultivates self-awareness and self-regulation, while neurobiological models identify key intervention targets for behavior change.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop brief, mindfulness-informed guided imagery audio files targeting cognitive and affective processes to promote physical activity.
• To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a 2-week pilot intervention using these audio files.
• To gather qualitative and quantitative data on participant experiences and outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A 2-phase study involving development of audio interventions and a 2-week pilot trial.
• Creation of brief (∼4 min) guided imagery audio files integrating mindfulness principles.
• Collection of qualitative and quantitative data on feasibility, acceptability, and behavioral shifts.

Main Results:

• Participants found the mindfulness-informed guided imagery easy to use, enjoyable, and helpful.
• The 2-week intervention led to reported increases in physical activity frequency, enjoyment, and self-efficacy.
• Participants demonstrated increased mindfulness during physical activity and positive shifts in affect and future-oriented thinking.

Conclusions:

• An integrative online mindfulness-informed guided imagery intervention is feasible and acceptable for promoting physical activity.
• This approach shows potential for enhancing physical activity enjoyment and engagement.
• Findings support the development of flexible, tailorable online mindfulness-based interventions for health behavior change.