Research Studies

The research studies below reveal a positive association between inmate participation in meditation classes and increased awareness, self-esteem, sense of hope, and compassion.

• A qualitative study into the experience of individuals involved in a
  mindfulness group within an acute inpatient mental health unit.pdf

  
  

• Free Inside A Program to Help Inmates Cope with Life in Prison at Maui Community Correctional Center.pdf

  
  

• Individuals with Mental Illness Can Control their Aggressive Behavior
  Through Mindfulness Training.pdf

  
  

• The role of thought suppression in the relationship between.pdf

  
  

• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction in Massachusetts Correctional Facilities.pdf

  
  

• PTSD Symptoms, Substance Use, and Vipassana Meditation among Incarcerated Individuals.pdf

  
  

• Mindfulness Meditation and Substance Use in an Incarcerated Population.pdf

  
  

• Tm At Folsom Prison A Critique of Abrams and Siegel.pdf

  
  

Inmate Testimonials

"In a setting such as a maximum security institution, any means of finding a positive way of handling their situation is beneficial mentally, physically and spiritually to not only the inmates, but to the correctional staff as well."

From Grand Valley Institute "Well let me start off by saying I'm just starting a sentence of 15 years. While being in the provincial system I seen a flyer about Becoming Free Through Meditation & Yoga!! I was wondering if you could possibly send me a freedom pack, so I can find peace through yoga. Thank-you very much and I'll keep you posted on my recovery."

From Toronto East Detention Centre 'The class began on September 27, 2004 and has been very popular amongst the inmates who attend this group on a voluntary basis. Approximately eight (8) men attend this class every week. The feedback that has been received is that it is a very positive and enlightening experience. In a setting such as a maximum security institution, any means of finding a positive way of handling their situation is both beneficial mentally, physically, and spiritually to not only the inmates, but to the correctional staff as well.'

From Ottawa-Carleton Detention Centre 'We have had our first 'testimonial' if you will. At our class last week, a woman who has come to all of our classes and who now practices meditation every Tuesday with another volunteer, noted how slim we all were. She said she is trying to reach a healthy weight but the Centre gives them chocolate bars for rewards. She has taken to giving hers away and asking for fruit instead. While perhaps not a big thing, I found it was so touching because to me it illustrated that she has started to make some changes in her life under difficult circumstances as a result of the class.'