Women’s Experience with a Mindful Eating Course on a University Campus

A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: Weight and eating are sources of distress for many women and most weight-loss diets fail to sustain their effects over time. Mindful eating focuses on the processes involved in eating (e.g., hunger, satiety, emotion) rather than on the regulation of weight, and is grounded in mindfulness meditation practices. Purpose: The purpose of this mixed-methods pilot study was to understand the experiences (attitudes, feelings, behaviors) of participants taking a course in mindful eating, and to know in what respects this approach showed promise for women in general. Methods: Seven university staff and faculty women (ages 37 - 59, BMI 21.76 – 40.42) participated in mindful eating classes taught over an 8- week period. Qualitative data were analyzed using intrinsic case study design, supported by pre- and postmeasures of mindful eating and disordered eating. Results: Three major themes were derived: Increased Awareness, New Behaviors in Eating, and Barriers to Practice, with notable experiences in limiting food intake. According to the MEQ, there was a significant increase in the Awareness domain (p = .045). Conclusion: Mindful eating can be incorporated into daily life and offer a way for women to regulate and enjoy their eating. Although there are challenges in making time for the practices, the study supports further exploration of mindful eating as both preventative and health-enhancing for women.