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Abstract

This action research aims to examine a contemplative facilitation process that fosters self-awareness among the elderly. The participants were 10 elderly people from a Social Welfare Development Center for Older Persons in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. Qualitative data were collected through participant observation and in-depth interviews, and data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The results revealed that the developed contemplative facilitation process, grounded in mindfulness cultivation, observation of the body, emotions, and thoughts, and deep listening, comprised eight activity sessions incorporating art-based activities and nature-connected practices. This process led to the development of self-awareness in four main areas: 1) Self-understanding – observing and recognizing oneself, accepting oneself, and appreciating one’s intrinsic value. 2) Openness and acceptance of differences – listening without judgment, accepting and valuing others, and broadening life perspectives. 3) Inner growth – experiencing safety and trust, inner calm and stability, focused attention, subtlety, renewed mental energy, and deeper interpersonal connections, and 4) Understanding and acceptance of life’s reality – recognizing interconnectedness in life, accepting life’s changes, and applying this understanding to daily living. The findings of this study indicate that the contemplative facilitation process has potential for enhancing self-awareness among the elderly, fostering holistic cultivation of mindfulness and wisdom, and consequently contributing to the improvement of quality of life in all dimensions.

Publisher

Faculty of Education, Chulalongkorn University

DOI

10.14456/jescu.2025.29

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