Effects of a mindfulness course on vital signs and five facet mindfulness questionnaire scores of college students.

This study examined the effects of a college mindfulness course on vital-signs and Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) scores. Two independent groups of 20 students were enrolled in the mindfulness course during the Fall 2018 () and Spring 2019 () semesters. Blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration rate were recorded before and after in-class mindfulness meditations several times throughout each semester. FFMQ scores were recorded at the beginning and conclusion of each semester. Statistical analyses indicated that 20 minutes of mindfulness meditation significantly decreased respiration rate (both trials) and heart rate () for female students. There were significant changes in the FFMQ mean scores for "non-react," "observe," "act aware," and "non-judge." These results suggest that mindfulness meditation may be beneficial for students to enhance their well-being. Recommendations are provided to further examine the implications of consistent mindfulness practices for college students.