Mindfulness Training to Facilitate Positive Body Image and Embodiment

Mindfulness – the non-judgemental awareness and acceptance of present moment experience – is cultivated through formal and informal experiential exercises, and has received support as an effective intervention approach across multiple disorders. The efficacy of mindfulness for body image and disordered eating is less well researched. This chapter outlines a theoretical framework for the application of mindfulness in this context, provides examples of intervention content, and reviews existing evidence related to the use of mindfulness training to enhance body image and prevent eating disorders in both clinical and non-clinical samples. Overall, research indicates mindfulness is a worthwhile approach, but should be carefully considered among those with clinical eating disorders due to the potential for negative impacts. Further research using rigorous methodology is required to establish stronger and broader support for intervention effects, and to explore mindfulness with regard to additional aspects of positive body image, embodiment and intuitive eating.