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

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. In a larger randomized controlled trial of MBLM in depressive outpatients, a subsample ( = 12) completed in-depth interviews. To determine short-term and long-term effects, cohorts were interviewed at two different times after intervention onset ( = 8 weeks;  = 6 months). Verbatim interview transcripts were analyzed by using thematic analysis. 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 () reflected the sustained effects of the intervention. 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 Trials.gov ID: Clinical Trial Registration number: NCT03652220.