From Retreat to Reality: A Qualitative Study of How Adolescents Apply Mindfulness One Month After a Weeklong Retreat
Mindfulness June 26, 2026 Jiaxiong Irvin Li, Brian M. Galla, Michael J. Tumminia
Adolescents who attended a six-day mindfulness retreat reported applying mindfulness skills in both personal and social contexts one month later. All 15 participants described intrapersonal benefits such as self-awareness, emotional regulation, self-compassion, and broader perspective. Many also described interpersonal applications: 73% used mindfulness to navigate social anxiety and build connections, 67% engaged in more compassionate communication including active listening and emotional support, and 53% reported greater empathy and perspective-taking. The findings suggest that an immersive retreat can help adolescents transfer mindfulness skills to real-world developmental challenges, supporting both internal well-being and social relationships.