Enhancing wellbeing in beauty salons and spas through the integration of mindfulness and aromatherapy in beauty vocational education: a qualitative narrative inquiry

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study explores the integration of mindfulness and aromatherapy-enhanced mindfulness in vocational education to help educators and beauty therapy students better manage their stress and enhance their personal and professional wellbeing. Moreover, it focuses on understanding the applicability of mindfulness within the beauty industry and its impact on business. This research opted for a qualitative narrative inquiry methodology using thematic narrative analysis to examine the experiences of three vocational educators and three beauty therapy students from a vocational college in Malta. Moreover, two local beauty salon owners were also chosen to participate in this study. The findings showed that mindfulness enhanced the wellbeing of educators and beauty students, improving their work performance and personality. Additionally, mindfulness can potentially improve the service provided, clients’ wellbeing, and beauty therapists’ wellbeing. A total of five models emerged from this study. Model 1 illustrates the impact of one's surroundings on their mindfulness experience. Model 2 shows a set of interconnected requirements that facilitate a deeper meditative state. Model 3 demonstrates how achieving self-awareness enhances our wellbeing. Model 4 offers a framework for meaningful and effective mindfulness practice. Model 5 illustrates how integrating mindfulness within the educational field can potentially lead to a thriving organisation.