The Implementation of Mindfulness and Dance/Movement Therapy For Women with Postpartum Depression: A Literature Review

This literature review discusses the impact and effectiveness of using mindfulness-based interventions and a dance/movement therapy approach on mothers with postpartum depression (PPD) to promote their holistic well-being. The experience of giving birth and the transition to motherhood can be rewarding and remarkable, yet challenging and overwhelming. It is widely suggested if a mother who suffers from postpartum depression is left untreated and unattended, the ongoing depression and emotional distress can have negative impacts on their child’s well-being and development. The practice of mindfulness with women with PPD is suggested to be significant in reducing depression and improving psychological well-being especially concerning a decrease in stress and anxiety. Dance/movement therapy, a bodily-oriented modality with its emphasis on non-verbal expression and communication, is used to foster a mother’s well-being, and their attachment and attunement with their child. This thesis aims to explore the existing research on the implementation of mindfulness-based interventions and a dance/movement therapy approach on women with postpartum depression