Abstract
Stress in excess can ultimately lead to poor health outcomes. Most research on the reduction of stress via mindfulness focuses on mindfulness-based training and therapy rather than studying the effects of trait mindfulness. Like practiced mindfulness, trait mindfulness is hypothesized to reduce chronic stress and both psychological (self-report) and physiological responses to acute stress. 29 participants (16 male) were assessed for trait mindfulness, experienced the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST), and completed stress-related questionnaires. Multiple regressions revealed gender-independent negative associations between trait mindfulness and self-reported chronic and acute stress. The mindfulness and self-reported acute stress relationship was mediated by state affect. For men only, high trait mindfulness was correlated with greater cortisol increases to stress. The gender and mindfulness interaction effect on cortisol increases was only apparent when controlling for affect. Trait mindfulness is an effective protector against perceived chronic and acute stress which may correlate to positive health outcomes. The findings in relation to cortisol may represent an adaptive response to threat in men, but cannot yet be determined in women. Further implications and limitations are also discussed.