The Evolution of an Indigenous Mindfulness Program: Qualitative Findings from the IndigenousMIND Study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Mental Health
• Indigenous Studies

Background:

• Mindfulness interventions often lack cultural adaptation for Indigenous populations.
• There is a need for community-driven wellness programs that respect Indigenous sovereignty and knowledge systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To collaboratively design and implement the Indigenous MIND (IM) program, a culturally adapted mindfulness intervention.
• To explore the acceptability and cultural resonance of the IM program within partner Indigenous communities.
• To document the adaptation process and potential for exporting the IM program to other Indigenous communities.

Main Methods:

• A two-step, participant-driven adaptation of a standard Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program.
• Delivery of an 8-week online IM program to 20 participants across two distinct Indigenous communities.
• Thematic analysis of recorded classes and participant feedback sessions.

Main Results:

• The IM program demonstrated high acceptability and alignment with participants' cultural values.
• Key themes included effective coping strategies for stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Intervention elements integrated Indigenous spirituality, tradition, and community identity.

Conclusions:

• Co-created wellness interventions grounded in Indigenous sovereignty and cultural continuity are valuable.
• Centering Indigenous knowledge systems and community-led sustainability can create effective health promotion models.
• The IM program serves as a model for future culturally resonant interventions for Indigenous peoples.