The Evolution of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Teacher Training Programs for People Who Serve Historically Underrepresented Racial and Ethnic Groups.

Background: There is a lack of mindfulness instructors from underserved/underrepresented communities who have completed systematic mindfulness teacher-training programs to meet the growing demand for culturally responsive mindfulness training in those communities.

Objectives: To investigate strategies for increasing the representation of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) teachers who serve historically underrepresented racial and ethnic groups.

Methods: Conducted through 4 one-hour Zoom focus groups (n = 54; women = 74%), this study queried individuals with experience serving underrepresented racial and ethnic communities, and had mindfulness experience, on how to increase participation from underrepresented communities in mindfulness.