Summary

The main objective of this research project was to investigate whether mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs), short-term eight-week programs based on contemplative practices, impact reactivity to social stress, emotion regulation, and spirituality. The programs in question were Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and a modified MBSR with other elements of Buddhist practice (training equanimity, loving-kindness, right conduct, and aspects of wisdom). In particular, we wanted to explore:

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• What physiological and affective systems are mostly impacted by MBIs: our measurements included salivary cortisol, salivary alpha-amylase, pre-ejection period (index of sympathetic nervous system activity), and heart rate variability (associated with the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system).

• Whether MBIs impact prolonged stress reactivity, i.e., resulting in reduced stress during anticipation of and recovery from stress.

• Whether the programs affect emotion regulation strategies of acceptance and reappraisal.

• Whether the programs increase spirituality.