An 8-week programme combining Zen meditation and music listening may enhance mindfulness, happiness, and stress management among university music therapy students. The qualitative study, using surveys and interviews, suggests that this integrated approach supports mental well-being and coping strategies. The findings carry implications for mental health resources in higher education and contribute to discussions on combining meditation and music to promote positive mental health.
An 8-week programme combining Zen meditation and music listening enhanced mindfulness and happiness among university music therapy students. Participants reported positive responses to daily stressors such as exam anxiety, financial difficulties, and emotional distress during the COVID-19 pandemic. The qualitative study used surveys and semi-structured interviews, analyzed through thematic analysis, to explore the effects of the meditation and music intervention. The findings suggest that integrating these practices can support mental health and well-being in higher education, offering coping strategies and expanding the potential for combined music and meditation interventions.