"To Be Finally at Peace with Myself": A Qualitative Study Reflecting Experiences of the Meditation-Based Lifestyle Modification Program in Mild-to-Moderate Depression

Background: Meditation-Based Lifestyle Modification (MBLM) is a new mind-body intervention that is based on classical yoga; it implements virtue-based ethical living, physical yoga, and meditation in a therapeutic context. This qualitative study aimed at understanding better how depressive patients who received MBLM as a treatment experience intra- and interpersonal outcomes of their practice. Methods: In a larger randomized controlled trial of MBLM in depressive outpatients, a subsample (n = 12) completed in-depth interviews. To determine short-term and long-term effects, cohorts were interviewed at two different times after intervention onset (T-1 = 8 weeks; T-2 = 6 months). Verbatim interview transcripts were analyzed by using thematic analysis. Results: Three themes emerged in the interviews: (1) Reappraisal of past and present life patterns, leading to a reflection on one's own values; (2) Serenity, attained by states of calm, growing acceptance, and the ability to set boundaries; and (3) Mindful living as expressed by increased self-awareness, being more present, and conscious interactions. The ethical component of MBLM was identified as a key factor in individual empowerment and appreciation of one's own strengths. Systematic changes in the importance of reported themes after 6 months (T-2) reflected the sustained effects of the intervention. Conclusions: The findings speak clearly for the benefits of MBLM in the treatment of depression. In particular, the explicit therapeutic implementation of virtue-based ethics offers a valuable addition to previous yoga and meditation programs. Clinical Trial Registration number: NCT03652220.