An Integration of the Mindfulness with Dhamma Gita for Reducing Stress of Working People from Theravada Buddhism and Mahayana Buddhism Perspectives: A Case Study of Buddhamahametta Foundation

Abstract

The objectives of this research article are to 1)  study the concepts and processes of using Dhamma gita for stress release among working people ; 2) to examine the approach of mindfulness practice through Dhamma gita for stress release of working people from the perspectives of Theravada Buddhism and Mahayana Buddhism; and 3)  develop an integration of mindfulness with Dhamma gita for stress release of working people from Theravada Buddhism and Mahayana Buddhism perspectives in the  case study of Buddhamahametta Foundation. The qualitative research is conducted through 17 key informants. Questionnaire survey, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions are tools, applied in this study. The data are analyzed by thematic analysis. The findings show that 1) Dhamma gita serves as a process for communicating Dhamma principles through songs, melodies, and chanting. It acts as a stimulus for mindfulness, fosters emotional tranquility, reduces mental agitation, and promotes the appropriate regulation of thoughts and feelings. It functions as a method for stress reduction among working people. 2) In Theravada Buddhism, the practice of mindfulness through Dhamma Gita focuses on using these musical forms to support the cultivation of mindfulness, concentration, and wisdom in accordance with the four foundations of mindfulness. On the other hand, Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes the use of chanting and Dhamma songs as skillful means to cultivate Bodhicitta, loving-kindness, compassion, and inner awareness; however, both of Mahayana and Theravada approaches share the common goal of developing the mind to achieve liberation from suffering and stress. 3) A model for integrating mindfulness practice with Dhamma Gita to stress release among working people is synthesized and developed. This model comprises five key components: (1) Dhamma Gita content, (2) Dhamma Gita sound and melody, (3) mindfulness stimulation, (4) emotion regulation, and (5) stress transformation. The new knowledge derived from this research is the DGMIS Model (Dhamma Gita Mindfulness Integration and Stress Transformation Model). This model integrates mindfulness practice with Dhamma Gita drawing upon both Theravada and Mahayana Buddhist traditions in order to enhance mental well-being and stress release among working people in contemporary society.