Date of Award

Summer 9-15-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MA - Master of Arts

Department

Mindfulness Studies

First Advisor

Dr. Melissa Jean

Second Advisor

Dr. Andrew Olendzki

Abstract

This thesis comprises a rationale paper and a creative project advocating for an integrated approach to mindfulness for trauma survivors that prioritizes trauma sensitivity and body-oriented somatic practices. It is important because trauma is a pervasive social issue with profound psychophysiological impacts on survivors, and current mindfulness offerings often fail to adequately address their needs, causing confusion or possibly re-traumatization. The literature indicates somatic and mindfulness-based interventions show promise for trauma recovery; however, research is limited. The findings reveal gaps between trauma-informed care and mindfulness-based approaches due to inconsistent application of trauma-sensitive techniques, a disconnect between somatic and mindfulness-based approaches to trauma recovery, and accessibility and safety concerns for trauma survivors attempting mindfulness. Opportunities include standardizing trauma-sensitive mindfulness implementations, integrating somatic-focused approaches into mindfulness interventions, and developing an accessible resource to empower trauma survivors to engage safely with mindfulness. The creative project, “The Trauma Survivors’ Guide to Mindfulness,” addresses the last of these challenges by explaining the role of mindfulness in trauma recovery, identifying trauma-sensitive mindfulness practices, and providing tools to adapt the practices to the needs of trauma survivors, helping them make informed decisions about how to approach mindfulness.

Comments

Contact April at: aneufeld@lesley.edu

Language

English

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