The Mindfulness Map: A Practical Classification Framework of Mindfulness Practices, Associated Intentions, and Experiential Understandings

Abstract

When considering the numerous mindfulness-based and mindfulness-informed programs that have flourished in the past decades it is not always clear that they all refer to the same “mindfulness. ” To facilitate more clarity and precision in describing, researching and teaching mindfulness in the secular settings, we propose a classification framework of mindfulness practices, intentions behind them and the experiential understandings the practices may aim to develop. Accordingly, the proposed framework, called the Mindfulness Map, has two axes. The first axis outlines mindfulness practices (and associated instructions) classified into four groups (MGs), e.g. the MG1 focuses on cultivating attention to the present moment somatic and sensory experience while the MG4 focuses on cultivating the ability to recognize and deconstruct perceptual, cognitive and emotional experiences and biases. The second axis outlines possible intentions (INTs) to cultivate particular experiential understanding (EU) via teaching and practicing the MGs, e.g., the INT1 designates the intention to gain EU of how our relationship to experience contributes to wellbeing, the INT2 refers to the intention to gain EU of the changing nature of body, mind and external phenomenon. We suggest that the same MG can lead to different EUs outcomes based on the specific INTs applied in their teaching or practice. The range of INTs and EUs included here is not exhaustive, there are further types the Map could be expanded toward. Aside from encouraging more fine-grained distinctions of mindfulness practices, the proposed Map aims to open discussions about interactions between MGs, INTs, EUs and practice outcomes. The Map may facilitate more nuanced and precise approaches to researching the range of outcomes cultivated by mindfulness practices, help bridge contradictory findings, and catalyze further debate and research into ethical aspects of mindfulness. The Map also highlights the need for further teaching development and research on longer-term trajectories of mindfulness practice. While the proposed Mindfulness Map organises the mindfulness practice territory along two axes, it is aimed as a starting point for further discussion and can be further revised and/or expanded by other axes.

The ATENción Plena en Enfermedad de Alzheimer (ATENEA—Mindfulness in Alzheimer’s Disease) Program for Caregivers: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

“…The MBCH program includes meditative practices using a Buddhist approach [ 15 , 25 ]. This program is mainly focused on practicing several important aspects: (1) paying attention to the present moment; (2) cultivating the acceptance of and openness to the present experience without resistance and avoiding any judgement; (3) developing and strengthening wholesome qualities, such as kindness and compassion; and (4) improving deeper self-inquiry by examining the subjective experience through thoughts, feelings, and sensations.…”

“…Mindfulness, among others, is one of the most common nonpharmacological interventions aimed at caregivers. Mindfulness is generally considered a practice involving consciously paying attention to the experience of the present moment with interest, curiosity, and acceptance [ 15 ]. In this respect, the overall goal of a mindfulness-based program designed for caregivers is to enable them to cultivate an experiential understanding of their bodily sensations, feelings, thoughts, and impulses, resulting in self-examination and better self-understanding of their daily living, especially while performing the activity of caregiving.…”

Preventing psychological symptoms among cancer survivors through a digital mindfulness psychoeducation program: Protocol of a randomized controlled trial

“…MBCR is a group-based mindfulness training that teaches people living with cancer mindfulness meditation and movement practices [16]. In addition, MBSR and MBCT usually begin with a simple body scan, mindfulness of breath, and movement practices, which have benefits on mental health outcomes [17].…”

Mindfulness and compassion training for health professionals: A qualitative study

“…Mindfulness is “a state of mind that permits insight, presence, and reflection, and also a habit of relating to the world” ( Epstein, 2003a ). It is often seen as a process that combines two components: (1) attention to both internal and external experiences in the present moment and (2) non-judgmental acceptance of emotions and thoughts ( Sáiz-Manzanares and Montero-García, 2015 ; Conversano et al, 2020 ; Levit-Binnun et al, 2021 ). Practicing mindfulness (particularly as part of the MBSR program and the MSC) seems to be a good way of developing self-compassion among HCPs, as the changes in the ability to be self-compassionate are predicted by mindfulness-related changes ( Miller et al, 1988 ; Neff, 2003 ).…”