Mindfulness Interventions for Disaster Resilience in Southeast Asia

Abstract

This chapter summarizes the literature on mindfulness and its impact of postdisaster response. Although the use of mindfulness is still in its infancy in Southeast Asia (SEA), initial studies suggest it has potential as a means to address survivors’ posttrauma symptoms. Given cultural nuances such as a discomfort in emotional expression and shame, mindfulness is non-intrusive and encourages non-judgmental acceptance. Mindfulness has been used in group settings which is congruent with the region’s collectivist orientation. In addition, given the importance of spirituality, we suggest that mindfulness may be an inclusive approach that is familiar and acceptable to SEA survivors.

Citation

Panting, A., Heise, A.G., Hechanova, M.R.M. and Waelde, L.C. (2020), "Mindfulness Interventions for Disaster Resilience in Southeast Asia", Hechanova, M.R.M. and Waelde, L.C. (Ed.) Resistance, Resilience, and Recovery from Disasters: Perspectives from Southeast Asia (Community, Environment and Disaster Risk Management, Vol. 21), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 95-108. https://doi.org/10.1108/S2040-726220200000021006