The Mindfulness, Wisdom, and Loving-Kindness (MWL) Framework: An Intensive-Extensive Hybrid Model for Enhancing Emotional Well-being Through Buddhist Peaceful Means
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Abstract
This study examined emotional well-being challenges reported by meditation practitioners at the Buddhamahametta Foundation and developed an integrated Buddhist peaceful-means framework that combines mindfulness (sati), wisdom (paññā), and loving-kindness (mettā) (MWL). Using a sequential mixed-methods design, the qualitative phase comprised ethnographic observation and semi-structured interviews with 20 purposively selected practitioners. The quantitative phase assessed change in affect using the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) at baseline and after an intensive, extensive intervention comprising a one-day intensive course and two weeks of structured home practice. Changes were summarized with descriptive statistics, effect sizes, and the positive-to-negative affect ratio (PA:NA) as an indicator of emotional balance; qualitative data were analyzed thematically.
At baseline, the most frequently reported challenges were irritability and anger (45%), work-related stress (35%), and excessive thinking (20%). The findings also suggested a non-linear association between years of practice and emotional balance, with intermediate practitioners showing comparatively more balanced profiles. Following the intervention, mean positive affect increased by 66.08% and mean negative affect decreased by 56.00%, yielding a PA: NA improvement of 256.32% (0.87 to 3.10). Effect sizes were very large (Cohen’s d > 2.0). Qualitative accounts aligned with the quantitative results, describing improved emotional regulation, increased inner calm, and greater mindfulness in daily life; participants also highlighted forgiveness-based practices and structured auditory supports as helpful.
Overall, the MWL intensive–extensive hybrid model shows promise for strengthening emotional well-being among Buddhist meditation practitioners and offers a practice-informed framework that may be adaptable for meditation centers and allied mental health contexts.
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