Finding presence during a pandemic: a qualitative analysis of participation in an Irish University online mindfulness practice during the COVID-19 emergency

ackground: In response to the change, and distress, that many faced during the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, a twice weekly online practice of mindfulness meditation was delivered to staff, students and the wider community outside of the University of Galway, Ireland. Mindfulness is a contemplative practice which improves coping skills and reduces emotional distress. This practice allows attention to be directed to the present moment, with acceptance and without judgement. Strengthening this practice nurtures skills of dealing with difficult emotions, changing unhelpful habits, behaviours and strengthening resilience during uncertainty. The twice weekly practice of an online mindfulness meditation was delivered in the context of the changes and preventative measures of the first pandemic lockdown in Ireland. The main objective of this practice is to cultivate skills of returning to the present, being grounded and building resilience amidst adversity. The aim of this study is to examine the effect of the offered regular online practice of mindfulness meditation for participants during the COVID-19 emergency, exploring through qualitative analysis of their own lived experience with this intervention.
Methods: This qualitative study consisted of a short-structured interview process to explore the participants’ experience of the online practice of mindfulness during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Results: From participating in this regular practice at this time, participants reported improved self-awareness, stress management and emotional regulation. Along with this, participants reported the felt sense of empathy and compassion and a sense of connection. Conclusion: This study has shown that during the difficult time of the COVID-19 pandemic, an online mindfulness meditation led to better wellbeing.