People who take part in the mindfulness-based programs developed at Leipzig University not only feel less stressed, but also show more environmentally friendly behaviour. This is the conclusion of two studies conducted as part of the ABiK project. The researchers investigated the effect of newly developed mindfulness programs on students and teachers.
From individual to "planetary health"
The focus was on two courses: the Mindful Students Program (MSP) and the Mindful Teachers Program (MTP). These courses were developed to promote mindfulness as a basis for dealing with oneself, others and the environment. The content is based on the international research discourse on "planetary health", which focuses on the interaction between human well-being and the health of natural systems.In 12 to 13 sessions, over 1100 students and 80 teachers and managers from Leipzig University as well as teachers from 30 schools in Saxony have been trained in mindfulness-based methods. The researchers surveyed a sample of participants at the beginning and end of the course about their experiences. They then compared this data with data from control groups that had not taken part in any of the courses.
They published the evaluation of the study with students in the journal "Mindfulness" at the end of February 2025; the publication on the school study is in preparation. The initial results show that Participating teachers and students are significantly less stressed, have stronger feelings of connection with people and nature and develop more sustainable actions.
ABiK project manager Susanne Krämer explains: ,,Mindfulness is often understood as a method for coping with stress. However, our results show that mindfulness-based programs can go far beyond this: They promote an attitude of connectedness - with oneself, with others and with the environment. In the current climate, this attitude can be a decisive factor for social change and can significantly change university and school culture."
Original title of the publication on the student study in "Mindfulness":
"Beyond Individual Stress Reduction: The Mindful Students Program Benefits University Students and Their Environment", doi: 10.1007/s12671-025-02529-4
Mindfulness as an attitude - with the potential to change society
In existence since 2021 It aims to strengthen the connection between individual reflection and social responsibility through mindfulness-based formats for students, teachers, lecturers and managers. ABiK focuses on an understanding of mindfulness that goes beyond mere stress management and encourages active participation in shaping a future worth living.The significance of the Leipzig research project extends beyond Germany, explains Susanne Krämer: "ABiK has already been presented at international conferences, including the first conference on mindfulness and sustainability in Rome and the congress of the German Society for Psychology (DGPs) in Vienna. Confirmations have been received for the International Conference on Environmental Psychology in Vilnius (Lithuania) and the 21st Conference of the European Association for Research on Learning and Instruction in Graz."
Invitation to the presentation of the results of the school study in Leipzig
The presentation of the study results will take place on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at 17:00 at Leipzig University. In addition to the ABiK researchers, experts from science and education will be present to discuss the potential of mindfulness in schools and universities. Media representatives are cordially invited to attend the event and talk to those responsible for the project. The participants are also available for interview requests and further information.Presentation of the results of the pilot study with teachers and expansion of the "Mindfulness in Education Network in Saxony"
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025, 5:00 p.m.
Location: Leipzig University, Center for Teacher Education and School Research, Room 169, Prager Str. 40, 04317 Leipzig
