Engagement in Mindfulness Practices by U.S. Adults: Sociodemographic Barriers

Abstract

Objective:

To examine the effect of sociodemographic factors on mindfulness practices.

Methods:

National Health Interview Survey Alternative Medicine Supplement data were used to examine sociodemographic predictors of engagement in meditation, yoga, tai chi, and qigong.

Results:

Greater education was associated with mindfulness practices (odds ratio [OR], 4.02 [95% confidence interval [CI], 3.50–4.61]), men were half as likely as women to engage in any practice, and lower engagement was found among non-Hispanic blacks and Hispanics.

Conclusion:

Vulnerable population groups with worse health outcomes were less likely to engage in mindfulness practices.