Stone, J. (2024). Exploring Open Awareness as a technique for addressing burnout in hairdressers: A heuristic inquiry [Unpublished Master’s thesis]. Alef Trust & Liverpool John Moores University.
In the fast-paced profession of hairdressing, the nature of work involves a continuous flow of clients and direct interactions. As a frontline job, the personal service of hairdressing demands efficiency, exceptional interpersonal skills, and excellent customer service. These professional challenges can generate significant performance pressure, impacting the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of the hairdresser. This study considers the practice of Open Awareness (OA), a transpersonal coaching technique, as an approach to enhancing resiliency and capacity under the stressful conditions experienced in this profession. This study has investigated the value of OA as an approach to decrease burnout and improve the overall well-being of hairdressers. Utilizing a purposeful sampling method, nine active hairdressers in the UK, spanning the ages of 24 and 60 years old, took part in evaluations of stress at the start and end of the study process. Participants were taught the practice of OA, and reinforced their learning with dedicated daily practice. Individual interviews were conducted, allowing reflection and evaluation of changes in wellbeing. Employing Heuristic Inquiry methodology, six themes were identified: insight, personal development, impact of practice, work-related stress, emotional well-being, and professional impact. The findings illuminate the range of co-researchers` development processes, challenges, and insights, and indicate that willingness, responsibility and commitment to self are central to OA practices. In this small pilot project, participants found that OA holds potential to decrease stress and increase wellbeing in the personal service profession of hairdressing.
