Transcendental Meditation Enriches Nurses' Authentic Presence Through Caring for Self and Others.
Journal of holistic nursing : official journal of the American Holistic Nurses' Association – December 01, 2024
Source: PubMed
Summary
Transcendental Meditation significantly enhances clinical nurses' well-being, promoting present moment awareness and self-care. In a qualitative study involving 50 nurses, participants reported that practicing TM fostered authentic presence with patients and colleagues. This practice not only improved their mental health but also supported their ability to provide compassionate care. The overarching theme revealed was that authentic presence embodies truth in knowing, being, doing, and becoming. By prioritizing their own well-being, nurses are better equipped to thrive in their demanding roles.
Abstract
Purpose of Study: Given the enormity of the most recent challenges to clinician well-being, intensified by the pandemic, we decided to explore the influence of Transcendental Meditation® (TM)® on the well-being of clinical nurses. The purpose of our study was to use qualitative analysis to enhance our understanding of the experiences of clinical nurses who practiced TM, as viewed through the lens of our conceptual model and Watson's holistic unitary caring science theory. Design and Method: This qualitative study involved a thematic analysis of clinical nurses' written descriptions following the completion of the TM program during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings: The nurse participants shared their experiences with the practice of TM as creating present moment focus, leading to enhanced self-care, and development of authentic presence with others. The overall theme uncovered in the analysis is that authentic presence is veritas (truth) in knowing, being, doing, and becoming. Conclusions: The findings were congruent with Watson's unitary caring science theory and provided illumination of the holistic value of TM as a self-care strategy for supporting nurses' well-being with the goal of retaining nurses in practice. When nurses care for themselves, they are more likely and able to care for others, thus helping them to enjoy their nursing careers.