Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Thesis Format

Monograph

Degree

Master of Science

Program

Health Promotion

Supervisor

Irwin, Jennifer

Abstract

Mindfulness-based interventions have become well-established in the literature as an effective treatment for various health issues. Its application in psychology is predominantly informed by dualism; however, according to its Eastern traditions, a true understanding of mindfulness is developed via nondualistic ontological experiences that emerge in a mindfulness state. The purpose of this study was to explore the experience of mindfulness and its nondual nature as it is experienced in the world. Hermeneutical phenomenology, informed by an interpretivist lens, was employed. A sample of 13 mindfulness practitioners were individually interviewed. The experience of mindfulness and its nondual nature was considered through themes relating to informal and formal practice; agency; ineffability; self-transcendence; and nature. The findings of this study provide new and important information regarding mindfulness and its nondual nature and can help answer the broader socio-psychological question of what it means to be an authentic, integrated, and realized human being.

Summary for Lay Audience

Within the field of psychology, there has been an increased use of mindfulness-based programs that have been proven to be an effective treatment for many mental and physical health issues. Regarding its philosophical origins, mindfulness is nondual in nature; however, its usage in the field of psychology is primarily based on dualism. According to its Eastern traditions, a true understanding of mindfulness can only be developed through nondualistic experiences that arise during the practice of mindfulness. The purpose of this study was to explore the experience of mindfulness and its nondual nature as it is experienced in the world by those who practice mindfulness. A sample of 13 individuals who regularly practiced mindfulness were recruited for this study. Each participant was individually interviewed. The essence of the experience of mindfulness and its nondual nature was considered through themes relating to informal and formal practice; agency; the ineffability of nonduality; self-transcendence; and nature. The findings of this study provide new and important information regarding mindfulness and its nondual nature and can help answer the broader social and psychological question of what it means to be an authentic, integrated, and realized human being.

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