The Intervention: Mindfulness
The intervention program included 6 modules, each of which lasted for 1 week and was delivered on a WeChat mini program. Each module consisted of thematic lessons and homework. On the first day of each week, participants viewed animated videos that provided thematic lessons of each module. Each video was 10- to 20-minute long and included a variety of cartoon images and mindfulness practice demonstrations recorded by our research team. We hoped that this would increase the participants’ interest in the course content and improve their compliance. For the remaining 6 days of each week, participants were asked to do homework, including formal and informal practices. The formal practice involved daily audio-based practices, such as mindful breathing and body scan. Participants were also encouraged to engage in informal practice daily, such as mindfulness in everyday life or 3-minute breathing space exercises. Participants in the intervention group were sent standardized practice reminders every day by the research assistant via WeChat. The content of the reminder was, “Ding ~ remember to attend class! Today is week X, day X.” Screenshot of WeChat mini program.