Abstract
Mindfulness meditation training (MMT) is effective in reducing stress and improving performance. However, it is unknown if young, active duty soldiers can, or will, use such training in their daily work. This pilot study investigated an abbreviated MMT format with U.S. soldiers (n = 19) to obtain feedback on its utility, acceptability, and feasibility immediately following MMT and with a subpopulation two months later at the conclusion of a 15-day Army Warfighting Field Training Exercise (FTX) (n = 8). Results showed decreases in self-reported stress, pain, and sleepiness, and increases in energy and work performance immediately post MMT. Volunteers participating in the FTX reported using meditation and/or mindfulness techniques during the FTX, and reported less stress and anxiety and higher work performance than a comparable group that did not receive MMT. These results support the supposition that young, active duty U.S. Soldiers will accept, use, and benefit from abbreviated mindfulness training.
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Acknowledgements
This research was supported in part by the Army Study Program Management Office (ASPMO). Special thanks to those U.S. Army soldiers who participated in this study. Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Army, Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.
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Rice, V.J., Boykin, G.L., Overby, C.R., Jeter, A., Villarreal, J. (2018). A Pilot Study Evaluating the Utility, Acceptability, and Feasibility of an Abbreviated Mindfulness Meditation Program Before and During Army Warfighting Training. In: Duffy, V., Lightner, N. (eds) Advances in Human Factors and Ergonomics in Healthcare and Medical Devices. AHFE 2017. Advances in Intelligent Systems and Computing, vol 590. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-60483-1_6
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