Study Examining the Effects of Mindfulness and Similar Audio-guided Exercises.

The Effects of Length of Mindfulness Practice on Mindfulness, Depression, Anxiety and Stress: A Randomised Controlled Experiment

This study aims to examine whether greater length of mindfulness practice results in more beneficial outcomes.

This study will randomise participants to one of three groups: (1) four sessions of medium length mindfulness practice (lasting 20 mins) and 5 mins of an audio book; (2) four sessions of brief mindfulness practice (lasting 5 mins) and 20 mins of an audio book; and (3) a control group who just receive 4 sessions of audio book (lasting 25 mins). In the mindfulness arms, in each session, the participants will receive the audio book prior to the mindfulness practice. Mindfulness levels, and depression, anxiety and stress will be measured by self-report at baseline, session by session, and at post-intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Members of the general public, especially university students or staff.
• Adequate understanding of spoken and written English

Exclusion Criteria:

• Currently experiencing significant difficulties with their mental wellbeing.
• Currently have a personal mindfulness practice.
• Currently participating in a mindfulness-based intervention.