Spirituality Studies 11-1 Spring 2025 35 Nadnapang Phophichit et al. 5 Discussion 5.1 Demographic Characteristics and Participant Engagement The demographic profile of our study participants provides valuable insights into the Four Foundations of Mindfulness-Based Intervention (FFMBI) program. The overwhelming female representation (97%) in our sample raises important questions about gender differences in seeking mindfulness-based interventions. This skew towards female participants is consistent with previous research on mindfulness and meditation programs, which often report higher female engagement (Katz and Toner 2013, 318). The wide age range of participants (36–75 years) demonstrates the broad appeal of FFMBI across different life stages, with higher representation in the 51–75 age brackets. This finding aligns with research indicating that older adults often show more interest in mindfulness practices for managing age-related stressors and improving overall well-being (Geiger et al. 2016, 296). These demographic findings have important implications for the design and implementation of future mindfulness-based interventions. They highlight the need for targeted outreach to underrepresented groups, particularly men and younger adults, to ensure that the benefits of such programs are accessible to a more diverse population. 5.2 Cardiovascular Effects of FFMBI The results from our blood pressure and heart rate measurements following the FFMBI program, while not statistically significant, warrant careful consideration. The marginal nature of these changes could be attributed to the relatively short duration of the intervention (7 days) and the fact that participants’ baseline blood pressure readings were already within the normal range. The trend towards a decrease in heart rate, approaching the threshold of significance (p=0.077), suggests a potential effect of FFMBI on autonomic nervous system function. It’s important to note that the lack of statistical significance in these cardiovascular measures does not necessarily negate their clinical relevance. Small changes in blood pressure and heart rate, if sustained over time, can have meaningful impacts on long-term cardiovascular health (Cook et al. 1995, 701). These findings highlight the need for longer-term studies with larger sample sizes to better elucidate the cardiovascular effects of FFMBI. 5.3 Body Composition Changes The observed changes in body composition provide valuable insights into the physiological effects of FFMBI. The statistically significant reductions in body weight, BMI, and degree of obesity suggest that FFMBI has a positive impact on overall body composition. These changes could be attributed to increased body awareness and improved eating behaviors associated with mindfulness practices (Tapper 2017). A key factor contributing to these outcomes was the structured meal schedule followed during the intervention. Participants consumed two daily meals – breakfast at 6:30 a.m. and lunch at 10:30 a.m. – and engaged in mindful eating practices throughout. This process involved mindfulness practice to each stage of eating: eating slowly and being fully aware of the eating process. This practice included observing the food, taking a portion, placing it in the mouth, noticing the taste and smell, being aware of jaw movement while chewing, swallowing, and then repeating the process with each spoonful until finishing the meal. Such practices have fostered healthier eating habits, leading to improved weight regulation. Additionally, the stress-reducing effects of FFMBI may have played a role in mitigating stress-related eating and enhancing metabolic regulation.
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