Understanding the feasibility of yoga and compassion meditation for stress management in mothers of children with intellectual disabilities in Nepal: a qualitative exploration.

BACKGROUND

Mothers caring for children with intellectual disabilities often experience high levels of stress and mental health challenges, underscoring the need for targeted health-promoting interventions.

OBJECTIVE

This qualitative study explores the feasibility of brief yoga and compassion meditation training for stress management among mothers of children with intellectual disabilities in Nepal, focusing on their experiences and insights.

METHODS

Twenty-four mothers participated in three separate focus group discussions (FGDs) each with a different group of participants and held in different locations, after completing a yoga and compassion meditation program (YCMP). Thematic analysis was used to explore the intervention's feasibility, based on participants' perception of its acceptability, practicality, appropriateness, adaptability, and implementation demands, along with challenges to address before broader application in health-promotion efforts.

RESULTS

Participants reported that the YCMP improved their emotional and physical wellbeing, was easily integrated into daily routines, was culturally and contextually appropriate, and met their desire for non-invasive interventions. The FGDs also revealed demands for such interventions. However, some participants noted challenges, notably time constraints, which limit their ability to engage in regular yoga and meditation practice.

CONCLUSIONS

The YCMP was valued as a culturally and contextually appropriate approach to managing caregiver stress. Adaptability, low cost, and non-invasive nature supports further research and potential implementation. In addition, insights from the FGDs provide guidance for the ongoing customization and expansion of the intervention.