Spirituality Studies 11-1 Spring 2025 21 Nadnapang Phophichit et al. impact of meditation on increased alpha and theta waves, associated with relaxed and focused states of consciousness (Cahn and Polich 2006, 180), and found that mindfulness meditation was associated with increased activation in brain regions involved in attentional control and emotional regulation (Zeidan et al. 2014). The present study aims to extend this body of research by specifically examining the effects of FFMBI on a comprehensive set of physiological and psychological markers. By investigating salivary cortisol levels, body composition, blood pressure, pulse rate, and brain waves, this research seeks to provide a multifaceted understanding of FFMBI’s impact on practitioners’ well-being. The study’s objectives are threefold: 1. Design and Development: To systematically develop a Four Foundations of Mindfulness-Based Intervention (FFMBI) by integrating insights from Buddhist scholars and Vipassanā meditation masters, in accordance with the concepts of the Four Foundations of Mindfulness practice in the Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta. 2. Implementation and Feasibility: To implement the FFMBI in a controlled setting with a cohort of experienced practitioners, assessing the feasibility, adherence, and practical application of the intervention. 3. Physiological and Psychological Impact Assessment: To quantitatively evaluate the effects of FFMBI on key physiological markers (salivary cortisol levels, body composition, blood pressure, and pulse rate) and neurophysiological parameters (brainwave activity), alongside psychological outcomes (self-reported stress levels). Based on the existing literature and the objectives of this study, we propose the following research hypotheses: 1. The Four Foundations of Mindfulness-Based Intervention (FFMBI) will result in a significant decrease in salivary cortisol levels and a significant reduction in stress among practitioners after receiving the intervention compared to their baseline levels. 2. FFMBI will lead to a significant improvement in brain wave patterns associated with relaxation (e.g., increased alpha wave activity) among practitioners after receiving the intervention compared to their pre-intervention measurements. 3. FFMBI will result in a significant improvement in body composition, indicated by reduced body fat percentage and increased muscle mass, among practitioners after receiving the intervention compared to their initial measurements. 4. FFMBI will lead to a significant decrease in blood pressure and pulse rate among practitioners after receiving the intervention compared to their pre-intervention measurements, indicating improved cardiovascular health and relaxation. These hypotheses predict that FFMBI will have a positive impact on multiple physiological and psychological parameters, including salivary cortisol levels, brain wave patterns, body composition, blood pressure, and pulse rate. The intervention is expected to result in decreased stress levels, improved relaxation, positive changes in body composition, and enhanced cardiovascular health among the practitioners. By employing a quasi-experimental design with a onephase embedded model, this research aims to provide both quantitative data on physiological changes and qualitative insights into participants’ subjective experiences. The study will be conducted at Wat Bhaddanta Asabharam in Chonburi Province, Thailand, offering an appropriate setting for mindfulness training and meditation practices.
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