Effects of Mindfulness in Motion on Adults with Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disorder that can negatively affect physical and cognitive abilities and mental health. Although there is no known cause or cure for MS, increased stress levels is thought to exacerbate symptoms. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of an eight-week Mindfulness in Motion (MiM) program on adults with MS in areas of stress, anxiety, depression, fatigue and quality of life. Twenty-two adults with MS completed the program and assessments. After comparing pre and post responses of four self-reported questionnaires, significant improvements were seen in physical functioning, vitality, and mental health; specifically anxiety, depression, and positive affect; cognitive, psychosocial, and overall functioning in regard to fatigue, and mindfulness in areas of observation, acting with awareness, non-judgment, and non-reactivity. At the final session, participant feedback was collected via open ended question form and group dialog. Qualitative analysis found improvements in general health, better-quality sleep, increased awareness of body sensations and energy levels, overall improvement in emotional response, enhanced mindful awareness, improved quality of life, and enhanced resiliency through decreased stress. Because of the unknown nature of MS, uncertainty in disease progression, and multiple mental and physical symptoms associated with it, coping and stress reduction are key areas of future research of MS disease management. The positive results from this study support the need for more research to determine the extent to which mindfulness training can improve health outcomes for adults with MS.