Adapting Mindfulness and Compassion as Pro-Environmental Practices: A Thematic Analysis of Mindfulness Teachers' Beliefs and Experiences

Objective: Mindfulness and compassion practices are increasingly being recognised for supporting personal and planetary health. However, current applications in sustainability and environmental psychology need guidance on adapting these practices to target pro-environmental behaviour. The primary objective of this study was to understand professionals’ perspectives on the potential adaptation of mindfulness and compassion into environmental psycho-educational practices. Method: Ten semi-structured interviews with mindfulness teachers were conducted and analysed utilising Reflexive Thematic Analysis. Findings: Four highly interconnected dominant themes illustrated: how environmental citizenship can be fostered through mindfulness and compassion (1), how embracing our roots supports cultivating a deeper connection with nature (3), how mindfulness and compassion can nurture emotional strength for climate resilience (3), and how the transformative power of mindfulness and compassion practices through nature integration show potential to bring about positive environmental behaviour change (4). Conclusions : The findings yield implications for promoting personal and planetary health through nature-engaged mindfulness-based practices, and propose an opportunity to develop future interventions.