Mindfulness meditation experiences among patients with coronary artery disease: A phenomenological study

Purpose: This study was aimed to explore and describe the experiences of mindfulness meditation (mindfulness-based stress reduction, MBSR) among patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) as a method of cardiac rehabilitation. Methods: In-depth interviews was conducted with 7 participants with CAD post percutaneous coronary intervention. Main question was 'what is your experiences with MBSR?' Colaizzi's seven steps of phenomenological analysis was used for eliciting embedded meanings. Results: Five theme clusters were found; rediscovery of mindfulness meditation, obtaining self-control for stress management, self-worth, feeling of happiness, and looking into myself. Conclusion: This study provides a profound picture on the experiences of mindfulness meditation among participants with coronary artery disease. MBSR can help patients with CAD in reducing stress and to enhance their cardiac rehabilitations. It is hoped that mindfulness meditation can be used in clinical setting as a part of cardiac rehabilitation program.