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Goldstein L, Smith AM, Romagnoli D, Katergi E. The effect of Transcendental Meditation on self-esteem, self-efficacy, and gratitude, for increasing empowerment of female youth in Uganda. Health Care Women Int 2024:1-34. [PMID: 38980139 DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2024.2358789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
This longitudinal study with female youth in the slums of Kampala, Uganda (n = 130), explored the impact of the Transcendental Meditation® (TM®) technique on self-esteem, the primary outcome measure, and self-efficacy, gratitude, hope, tiredness, and resilience as secondary outcomes. Quality-of-life behaviors were also assessed, including excessive alcohol use. After baseline testing participants learned TM over five consecutive days. Participants practiced TM at home for 20 min twice a day and attended two follow-up sessions. Post-testing occurred at five months. Significant improvements in self-esteem (p < .001), self-efficacy (p < .001), gratitude (p < .001), and tiredness (p = .05) were found. A decrease in excessive alcohol use was also observed (p = .02). At eight months a short answer questionnaire showed improved physical health, decreased stress and anxiety levels, and improved relationships in the family and community. Our findings have important implications for enhancing the well-being and empowerment of these vulnerable female youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslee Goldstein
- Center for Social Emotional Health and Consciousness, Maharishi International University, Fairfield, Iowa, USA
| | | | - Daniela Romagnoli
- University Workforce Education and Development, College of Education, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Elissa Katergi
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
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Rusinova A, Volodina M, Ossadtchi A. Short-term meditation training alters brain activity and sympathetic responses at rest, but not during meditation. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11138. [PMID: 38750127 PMCID: PMC11096169 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60932-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Although more people are engaging in meditation practices that require specialized training, few studies address the issues associated with nervous activity pattern changes brought about by such training. For beginners, it remains unclear how much practice is needed before objective physiological changes can be detected, whether or not they are similar across the novices and what are the optimal strategies to track these changes. To clarify these questions we recruited individuals with no prior meditation experience. The experimental group underwent an eight-week Taoist meditation course administered by a professional, while the control group listened to audiobooks. Both groups participated in audio-guided, 34-min long meditation sessions before and after the 8-week long intervention. Their EEG, photoplethysmogram, respiration, and skin conductance were recorded during the mediation and resting state periods. Compared to the control group, the experimental group exhibited band-specific topically organized changes of the resting state brain activity and heart rate variability associated with sympathetic system activation. Importantly, no significant changes were found during the meditation process prior and post the 8-week training in either of the groups. The absence of notable changes in CNS and ANS activity indicators during meditation sessions, for both the experimental and control groups, casts doubt on the effectiveness of wearable biofeedback devices in meditation practice. This finding redirects focus to the importance of monitoring resting state activity to evaluate progress in beginner meditators. Also, 16 h of training is not enough for forming individual objectively different strategies manifested during the meditation sessions. Our results contributed to the development of tools to objectively monitor the progress in novice meditators and the choice of the relevant monitoring strategies. According to our findings, in order to track early changes brought about by the meditation practice it is preferable to monitor brain activity outside the actual meditation sessions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Rusinova
- Center for Bioelectric Interfaces, HSE University, Moscow, Russia, 101000
| | - Maria Volodina
- Center for Bioelectric Interfaces, HSE University, Moscow, Russia, 101000.
- Laboratory of Medical Neurointerfaces and Artificial Intellect, Federal Center of Brain Research and Neurotechnologies of the Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia, 117513.
| | - Alexei Ossadtchi
- Center for Bioelectric Interfaces, HSE University, Moscow, Russia, 101000
- Artificial Intelligence Research Institute, AIRI, Moscow, Russia
- LLC "Life Improvement by Future Technologies Center", Moscow, Russia
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Loiselle M, Brown C, Travis F, Gruener G, Rainforth M, Nidich S. Effects of Transcendental Meditation on Academic Physician Burnout and Depression: A Mixed Methods Randomized Controlled Trial. THE JOURNAL OF CONTINUING EDUCATION IN THE HEALTH PROFESSIONS 2023; 43:164-171. [PMID: 36702122 DOI: 10.1097/ceh.0000000000000472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Burnout is pervasive among physicians and has widespread implications for individuals and institutions. This research study examines, for the first time, the effects of the Transcendental Meditation (TM) technique on academic physician burnout and depression. METHODS A mixed methods randomized controlled trial was conducted with 40 academic physicians representing 15 specialties at a medical school and affiliated VA hospital using the TM technique as the active intervention. Physicians were measured at baseline, 1 month, and 4 months using the Maslach Burnout Inventory, Beck Depression Inventory, Insomnia Severity Index, Perceived Stress Scale, and Brief Resilience Scale. Repeated measures analysis of covariance was used to assess adjusted mean change scores for the 1- and 4-months posttests. Qualitative interviews were conducted at baseline and 4 months and compared with the quantitative measurements. RESULTS Significant improvements were found for the TM group compared with controls at 4 months in total burnout ( p = .020) including the Maslach Burnout Inventory dimensions of emotional exhaustion ( p = .042) and personal accomplishment ( p = .018) and depression ( p = .016). Qualitative interviews supported quantitative outcomes. Physicians reported classic burnout and depression symptoms in baseline interviews. Those regularly practicing the TM technique reported relief from those symptoms. The control group did not state similar changes. DISCUSSION Mixed methods findings suggest the TM technique is a viable and effective intervention to decrease burnout and depression for academic physicians. Larger longitudinal studies with a wider range of health care providers are needed to validate these findings for extrapolation to the greater medical community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Loiselle
- M. Loiselle: Director of Evaluation and Assistant Professor, Maharishi International University, Fairfield, IA. C. Brown: adjunct assistant professor of medical education, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL. F. Travis: Director, Center for Brain, Consciousness and Cognition, Maharishi International University, Fairfield, IA. G. Gruener: Vice Dean for Education, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL. M. Rainforth: Senior researcher, Center for Social-Emotional Health, Maharishi International University Research Institute, Fairfield, IA. S. Nidich: Director, Center for Social-Emotional Health, Maharishi International University Research Institute, Fairfield, IA
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Becker DR, Shelly S, Kavalieratos D, Maira C, Gillespie AI. Immediate Effects of Mindfulness Meditation on the Voice. J Voice 2022:S0892-1997(22)00342-3. [PMID: 36428173 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvoice.2022.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The benefits of mindfulness meditation are well documented. This study evaluated the immediate effects of mindfulness meditation (MM) on the voice and voice user. STUDY DESIGN Prospective experimental study. METHODS Participants: 19 vocally healthy (VH) individuals, and 26 individuals with common voice disorders (CVD; benign lesions and hyperfunctional muscle tension) deemed stimulable for voice therapy. Exclusionary criteria: prior training or regular meditation practice. Participants recorded speech samples before and after a 11.5-minute prerecorded session of MM. PRIMARY OUTCOMES phonatory aerodynamics and participants' self-reported experience of voice. SECONDARY OUTCOMES self-reported anxiety, vocal acoustics, speech breathing patterns, and auditory-perceptual outcomes. Baseline self-reported measures of voice (Voice Handicap Index-10 - VHI-10), breathing (Dyspnea Index - DI), stress (Perceived Stress Scale - PSS), and trait mindfulness (Cognitive and Mindfulness Scale - Revised, CAMS-R, Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire - FFMQ) were compared between groups. RESULTS At baseline, CVD had significantly higher VHI-10 (P< 0.001) and DI (P= 0.0014), and lower trait mindfulness (CAMS-R, P= 0.02). No difference between groups for PSS or FFMQ. Changes postMM: decreased CPP for all-voiced sentences for VH (P= 0.003), decreased mean SPL (P= 0.012) on sustained vowel for VH, increased mean phonatory airflow during sustained vowel for CVD (P = 0.012). VH demonstrated a decrease in CPP on the all-voice sentence, and CVD demonstrated an increase, resulting in a significant between group difference (P= 0.013). Participants reported improvements in voice, emotional and physical states. State anxiety decreased for both groups (= < 0.001). No other objective outcomes reached significance. CONCLUSIONS After a brief MM, participants experienced improvement in physical, emotional, and cognitive states, and in their perceptions of their voice. Results indicate that a brief, single session of MM may be beneficial for some, but not sufficient to override habitual voice and speech patterns. Given the benefits of MM, future work should evaluate MM in a standard voice therapy protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sandeep Shelly
- Emory Healthcare, Department of Otolaryngology, Atlanta, Geogia
| | - Dio Kavalieratos
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Geogia
| | - Carissa Maira
- Emory Healthcare, Department of Otolaryngology, Atlanta, Geogia
| | - Amanda I Gillespie
- Emory Healthcare, Department of Otolaryngology, Atlanta, Geogia; Department of Otolaryngology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Geogia
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Meteier Q, Capallera M, De Salis E, Widmer M, Angelini L, Abou Khaled O, Mugellini E, Sonderegger A. Carrying a passenger and relaxation before driving: Classification of young drivers' physiological activation. Physiol Rep 2022; 10:e15229. [PMID: 35583049 PMCID: PMC9115695 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.15229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Drivers are often held responsible for road crashes. Previous research has shown that stressors such as carrying passengers in the vehicle can be a source of accidents for young drivers. To mitigate this problem, this study investigated whether the presence of a passenger behind the wheel can be predicted using machine learning, based on physiological signals. It also addresses the question whether relaxation before driving can positively influence the driver's state and help controlling the potential negative consequences of stressors. Sixty young participants completed a 10‐min driving simulator session, either alone or with a passenger. Before their driving session, participants spent 10 min relaxing or listening to an audiobook. Physiological signals were recorded throughout the experiment. Results show that drivers experience a higher increase in skin conductance when driving with a passenger, which can be predicted with 90%‐accuracy by a k‐nearest neighbors classifier. This might be a possible explanation for increased risk taking in this age group. Besides, the practice of relaxation can be predicted with 80% accuracy using a neural network. According to the statistical analysis, the potential beneficial effect of relaxation did not carry out on the driver's physiological state while driving, although machine learning techniques revealed that participants who exercised relaxation before driving could be recognized with 70% accuracy. Analysis of physiological characteristics after classification revealed several relevant physiological indicators associated with the presence of a passenger and relaxation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quentin Meteier
- HumanTech Institute, University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Western Switzerland, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Marine Capallera
- HumanTech Institute, University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Western Switzerland, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Emmanuel De Salis
- Haute-Ecole Arc Ingénierie, University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Western Switzerland, Saint-Imier, Switzerland
| | - Marino Widmer
- Department of Informatics, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Leonardo Angelini
- HumanTech Institute, University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Western Switzerland, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Omar Abou Khaled
- HumanTech Institute, University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Western Switzerland, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Elena Mugellini
- HumanTech Institute, University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Western Switzerland, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Sonderegger
- Business School, Institute for New Work, Bern University of Applied Sciences, Bern, Switzerland
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van Loon AWG, Creemers HE, Okorn A, Vogelaar S, Miers AC, Saab N, Westenberg PM, Asscher JJ. The effects of school‐based interventions on physiological stress in adolescents: A meta‐analysis. Stress Health 2022; 38:187-209. [PMID: 34275188 PMCID: PMC9291930 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Chronic stress is associated with dysregulations in the physiological stress system, resulting in diverse negative developmental outcomes. Since adolescence is a period characterized by increased stress-sensitivity, and schools are an important environment for the developing adolescent, school-based interventions promoting psychosocial functioning are of particular interest to prevent adverse outcomes. The present study therefore aimed to investigate the effectiveness of such interventions on hypothalamic pituitary adrenal-axis (i.e., cortisol) and cardiovascular (i.e., blood pressure [BP] and heart rate [HR]/heart rate variability [HRV]) parameters of stress in adolescents, and examined moderators of effectiveness. The search resulted in the inclusion of k = 9 studies for cortisol, k = 16 studies for BP, and k = 20 studies for HR/HRV. The results indicated a significant small overall effect on reducing BP, but no significant effect for HR/HRV. For cortisol, large methodological variation in the few primary studies did not allow for quantitative analyses, but a qualitative review demonstrated inconsistent results. For BP and HR/HRV, larger effects were observed for intervention programs with a mindfulness and/or meditation component, for interventions without a cognitive-behavioural component and for interventions with a higher intensity. Providing adolescents with techniques to improve indicators of physiological stress may prevent emerging mental health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hanneke E. Creemers
- Forensic Child and Youth Care SciencesUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Ana Okorn
- Department of Child and Adolescent StudiesUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands,Behavioural Science InstituteRadboud UniversityNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Simone Vogelaar
- Developmental and Educational PsychologyLeiden UniversityLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Anne C. Miers
- Developmental and Educational PsychologyLeiden UniversityLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Nadira Saab
- Graduate School of Teaching (ICLON)Leiden UniversityLeidenThe Netherlands
| | | | - Jessica J. Asscher
- Department of Child and Adolescent StudiesUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands,Forensic Child and Youth Care SciencesUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
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Zhang F, Zhang Y, Jiang N, Zhai Q, Hu J, Feng J. Influence of Mindfulness and Relaxation on Treatment of Essential Hypertension: Meta-Analysis. JOURNAL OF HEALTHCARE ENGINEERING 2021; 2021:2272469. [PMID: 34900178 PMCID: PMC8664515 DOI: 10.1155/2021/2272469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Some studies published previously have shown a strong correlation between hypertension and psychological nature including impulsion emotion or mindfulness and relaxation temperament, among which mindfulness and relaxation temperament might have a benign influence on blood pressure, ameliorating the hypertension. However, the conclusion was not confirmed. Objective The meta-analysis was performed to investigate the influence of mindfulness and relaxation on essential hypertension interventions and confirm the effects. Methods Systematic searches were conducted in common English and Chinese electronic databases (i.e., PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database) from 1980 to 2020. A meta-analysis including 5 studies was performed using Rev Man 5.4.1 software to estimate the influence of mindfulness and relaxation on blood pressure, ameliorating the hypertension. Publication bias and heterogeneity of samples were tested using a funnel plot. Studies were analyzed using either a random-effect model or a fixed-effect model. Results All the 5 studies investigated the influence of mindfulness and relaxation on diastolic and systolic blood pressure, with total 205 participants in the control group and 204 in the intervention group. The random-effects model (REM) was used to calculate the pooled effect for mindfulness and relaxation on diastolic blood pressure (I 2 = 0%, t 2 = 0.000, P=0.41). The random pooled effect size (MD) was 0.30 (95% CI = -0.81-1.42, P=0.59). REM was used to calculate the pooled effect for mindfulness and relaxation on systolic blood pressure (I 2 = 49%, t 2 = 3.05, P=0.10). The random pooled effect size (MD) was -1.05 (95% CI = -3.29-1.18, P=0.36). The results of this meta-analysis were influenced by publication bias to some degree. Conclusion All the results showed less influence of mindfulness and relaxation might act on diastolic or systolic blood pressure, when mindfulness and relaxation are used to intervene in treating CVD and hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fushun Zhang
- Department of Health Management Centre, Tianjin Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated hospital, Room 117, Health Management Center, Building C, Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 354, Beima Road, Hongqiao, Tianjin 300120, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Department of Health Management Centre, Tianjin Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated hospital, Room 117, Health Management Center, Building C, Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 354, Beima Road, Hongqiao, Tianjin 300120, China
| | - Nan Jiang
- Department of Health Management Centre, Tianjin Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated hospital, Room 117, Health Management Center, Building C, Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 354, Beima Road, Hongqiao, Tianjin 300120, China
| | - Qiao Zhai
- Department of Health Management Centre, Tianjin Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated hospital, Room 117, Health Management Center, Building C, Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 354, Beima Road, Hongqiao, Tianjin 300120, China
| | - Juanjuan Hu
- Department of Health Management Centre, Tianjin Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated hospital, Room 117, Health Management Center, Building C, Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 354, Beima Road, Hongqiao, Tianjin 300120, China
| | - Jing Feng
- Department of Health Management Centre, Tianjin Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated hospital, Room 117, Health Management Center, Building C, Affiliated Hospital of Tianjin Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 354, Beima Road, Hongqiao, Tianjin 300120, China
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SCHNEIDER RH, GRIM C, KOTCHEN T, MARWAHA K, KOTCHEN J, SALERNO JW, KING CG, NIDICH S, ALEXANDER CN. Randomized controlled trial of stress reduction with meditation and health education in black men and women with high normal and normal blood pressure. Am J Prev Cardiol 2021; 8:100279. [PMID: 34729544 PMCID: PMC8546372 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpc.2021.100279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Black men and women suffer from disparities in morbidity and mortality from hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and currently, COVID-19. These conditions are associated with social determinants of health and psychosocial stress. While previous trials demonstrated that stress reduction with meditation lowered BP in the grade I range in Black adults, there is a paucity of evidence for high normal and normal BP. OBJECTIVE This randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of stress reduction with the Transcendental Meditation (TM) technique in Black adults with high normal BP and normal BP using international classifications. METHODS A total of 304 Black men and women with high normal (130-139/85-89 mm Hg) and normal BP (120-129/80-84 mm Hg) were randomized to either TM or health education (HE) groups. BP was recorded at 3, 6, 9, 12, 24, 30 and 36 months after baseline. Linear mixed model analysis was conducted to compare the BP change between TM and HE participants in the high-normal BP and normal-BP groups. Survival analysis for hypertensive events was conducted. RESULTS After an average of 19.9 ± 11.1 months follow-up, TM participants in the high-normal BP group showed significantly lower posttest SBP (-3.33 mm Hg, p = 0.045). There was no difference in DBP (-0.785 mm Hg, p = 0.367) compared to HE participants. In the normal BP group, the SBP and DBP were not different between the TM and HE participants. The hazard ratio for hypertensive events was 0.52 (p = 0.15) in the high normal BP group (7 TM vs 13 HE) with no difference in the normal BP group. CONCLUSION This RCT found that meditation lowered systolic BP in Black men and women with high normal BP but not in normal BP participants. These results may be relevant to reducing health disparities in CVD and related co-morbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert H. SCHNEIDER
- Institute for Prevention Research, 2100 Mansion Drive, Vedic City, Iowa 52556, USA
- College of Integrative Medicine, Institute for Natural Medicine and Prevention, Department of Physiology and Health, Maharishi International University, Fairfield, Iowa USA
| | - Clarence GRIM
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Theodore KOTCHEN
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Komal MARWAHA
- College of Integrative Medicine, Institute for Natural Medicine and Prevention, Department of Physiology and Health, Maharishi International University, Fairfield, Iowa USA
| | - Jane KOTCHEN
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - John W. SALERNO
- Institute for Prevention Research, 2100 Mansion Drive, Vedic City, Iowa 52556, USA
| | - Carolyn Gaylord KING
- Institute for Prevention Research, 2100 Mansion Drive, Vedic City, Iowa 52556, USA
| | - Sanford NIDICH
- Institute for Prevention Research, 2100 Mansion Drive, Vedic City, Iowa 52556, USA
| | - Charles N. ALEXANDER
- Institute for Prevention Research, 2100 Mansion Drive, Vedic City, Iowa 52556, USA
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Susceptibility of Women to Cardiovascular Disease and the Prevention Potential of Mind-Body Intervention by Changes in Neural Circuits and Cardiovascular Physiology. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11050708. [PMID: 34068722 PMCID: PMC8151888 DOI: 10.3390/biom11050708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Women have been reported to be more vulnerable to the development, prognosis and mortality of cardiovascular diseases, yet the understanding of the underlying mechanisms and strategies to overcome them are still relatively undeveloped. Studies show that women's brains are more sensitive to factors affecting mental health such as depression and stress than men's brains. In women, poor mental health increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, and conversely, cardiovascular disease increases the incidence of mental illness such as depression. In connection with mental health and cardiovascular health, the presence of gender differences in brain activation, cortisol secretion, autonomic nervous system, vascular health and inflammatory response has been observed. This connection suggests that strategies to manage women's mental health can contribute to preventing cardiovascular disease. Mind-body interventions, such as meditation, yoga and qigong are forms of exercise that strive to actively manage both mind and body. They can provide beneficial effects on stress reduction and mental health. They are also seen as structurally and functionally changing the brain, as well as affecting cortisol secretion, blood pressure, heart rate variability, immune reactions and reducing menopausal symptoms, thus positively affecting women's cardiovascular health. In this review, we investigate the link between mental health, brain activation, HPA axis, autonomic nervous system, blood pressure and immune system associated with cardiovascular health in women and discuss the effects of mind-body intervention in modulating these factors.
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Desai V, Gupta A, Andersen L, Ronnestrand B, Wong M. Stress-Reducing Effects of Playing a Casual Video Game among Undergraduate Students. TRENDS IN PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [PMCID: PMC7952082 DOI: 10.1007/s43076-021-00062-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
To assess the potential effectiveness of playing a simple, casual video game (Flower) in reducing stress relative to participating in a mindfulness-meditation session (body scan) among undergraduate students. Eighty undergraduate student participants (mean age = 19.46 years, SD = 1.43; gender: 48 females, 29 males, 3 preferred not to answer) were assigned to one of two groups in alternating order: one who played Flower and the comparison group who participated in a body scan, each lasting 20 min. Psychological and physiological stress measurements were made before and after each intervention. Self-perceived psychological stress was measured using a modified version of the nine-item Psychological Stress Measure (PSM-9), and physiological stress (heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure) was measured using an electronic blood-pressure cuff. The results were analyzed with a 2 (measurement: pre, post) × 2 (intervention: video game, mindfulness-meditation) mixed model analysis of variance (ANOVA) for each of the four outcome measures. There was a statistically significant reduction (pre- to post-intervention) across all outcome measures. Notably, there was a significant measurement × intervention interaction (p < .001) for the psychological stress measure; participants in the mindfulness-meditation group reported greater stress reduction after the intervention than participants in the video game group. Although these results suggest mindfulness-meditation provides a slight advantage for stress reduction than casual video games, the similarity in reduction across all physiological measures between the two interventions nevertheless suggests casual video games may also be an effective medium. This finding is especially promising given casual video games’ accessibility, ease of use, and popularity among students. These results may inform initiatives by colleges and universities to better support students during peak times of stress and especially during the current COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veeral Desai
- Bachelor of Health Sciences Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Arnav Gupta
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Lucas Andersen
- Psychology Department, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, La Crosse, USA
| | - Bailey Ronnestrand
- Psychology Department, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, La Crosse, USA
| | - Michael Wong
- Bachelor of Health Sciences Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- Psychology Department, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, La Crosse, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
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Wilson NA, Kenny MA, Peña AS. Role of meditation to improve children's health: Time to look at other strategies. J Paediatr Child Health 2021; 57:178-181. [PMID: 33217077 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.15275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
In the United States, it is reported that up to 7 million of the population practice some form of meditation with the main purpose of improving emotional wellbeing and reducing stress. As the prevalence of mental health conditions continues to climb, other forms of health management strategies, including meditation practices, are increasingly used in adults. The evidence continues to emerge for the use of meditation as a way of managing health conditions in adults as demonstrated in systematic reviews and randomised controlled trials. There is also growing evidence evaluating the use of meditation practices and their potential benefits for child and adolescent health. Studies have identified improvements in mood and mental health conditions, school attendance and attention in the classroom in children and adolescents. This article aims to provide a perspective on commonly evaluated meditation types, such as Transcendental Meditation and mindfulness-based stress reduction. The article also aims to discuss the available evidence for the use of meditation to improve health and general wellbeing of children, including the use of meditation programs in schools, the current downfalls and limitations to the existing literature around meditation, and important points that healthcare practitioners need to consider when discussing the use of meditation as an additional strategy to manage and improve health and wellbeing in children and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina A Wilson
- Discipline of Paediatrics, Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Women's and Children's Hospital, SA Health, Government of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Maura A Kenny
- Centre for the Treatment of Anxiety and Depression, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, SA Health, Government of South Australia, Thebarton, South Australia, Australia
| | - Alexia S Peña
- Discipline of Paediatrics, Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Women's and Children's Hospital, SA Health, Government of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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12
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Wallace RK, Wallace T. Neuroadaptability and Habit: Modern Medicine and Ayurveda. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 57:medicina57020090. [PMID: 33494269 PMCID: PMC7909780 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57020090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In our increasingly stressed world, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic, the activation of the threat network in everyday situations can adversely affect our mental and physical health. Neurophysiological response to these threats/challenges depends on the type of challenge and the individual’s neuroadaptability. Neuroadaptability is defined as the ability of the nervous system to alter responsiveness over time to reoccurring stimuli. Neuroadaptability differs from neuroplasticity, which is more inclusive and refers to the ability of the nervous system to change and learn from any experience. We examine neuroadaptability and how it affects health from the perspective of modern medicine and Ayurveda.
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Thayer JF, Carnevali L, Sgoifo A, Williams DP. Angry in America: Psychophysiological Responses to Unfair Treatment. Ann Behav Med 2021; 54:924-931. [DOI: 10.1093/abm/kaaa094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
African Americans have the highest rates of hypertension-related disease of any ethnic group in the USA. Importantly, racism and discrimination have been linked to these higher rates of morbidity and mortality. Discrimination is deleterious not only to those that are the recipients of this unfair treatment but also to the partners and family members of those affected as well to those that perpetrate this bias.
Purpose
In this paper, we identify a unique pattern of physiological response to unfair treatment, we have called the “cardiovascular conundrum.” This pattern is characterized by greater heart rate variability and greater total peripheral resistance in African Americans compared to their European American counterparts.
Methods and Results
We review the evidence supporting the existence of this pattern and propose several physiological and psychological factors that might underpin it. We also propose a number of factors that might help to mitigate the deleterious effects associated with it.
Conclusions
Whereas the context of the current review is on Black/White disparities the framework we propose may be relevant to others exposed to unfair treatment. Ultimately, the systemic factors that perpetuate these inequalities will require that we first acknowledge and then face the challenges they present if we are to address the wealth and health disparities in our country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian F Thayer
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Luca Carnevali
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Italy
| | - Andrea Sgoifo
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Italy
| | - DeWayne P Williams
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
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Mindfulness Passes the Stress Test: Attenuation of Behavioral Markers of Mind Wandering During Acute Stress. JOURNAL OF COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s41465-020-00193-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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15
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Hewawasam E, Brennan L, Giles L, Hull ML, Short A, Norman R, Peña AS. Assessing Whether Meditation Improves Quality of Life for Adolescent Girls With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2020; 9:e14542. [PMID: 32012099 PMCID: PMC7013635 DOI: 10.2196/14542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Revised: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine condition characterized by irregular periods and hyperandrogenism. Adolescents with PCOS have impaired quality of life (QOL) and increased psychological distress. Transcendental Meditation (TM) is a well-established self-management strategy that has been used to improve stress and well-being. A meta-analysis of TM trials has shown beneficial effects on stress and blood pressure in adults. Recent data are suggesting that another self-management strategy called a mindfulness stress management program has a role in improving QOL in women with PCOS, but there are no studies in adolescents. Objective This study aims to evaluate the effect of TM on QOL and psychological distress in adolescent girls with PCOS. Methods This study is a randomized controlled trial that will be conducted over eight weeks at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Adelaide, South Australia, to determine the effect of TM on QOL and psychological distress in adolescent girls (aged 12-20 years) with PCOS. A total of 40 girls will be randomized into either the TM (n=20) or control group (n=20). The TM group will be asked to practice TM in a comfortable sitting position with the eyes closed, for 15 minutes twice daily over eight weeks. The control group will be asked to sit quietly for 15 minutes twice daily for eight weeks. The primary outcomes are any effects on improving QOL and psychological distress, and the secondary outcomes are any effects on lowering blood pressure and salivary cortisol levels. Results The recruitment of study participants began in May 2019 and is expected to be completed by June 2020. It is expected that the adolescent girls with PCOS practicing TM over eight weeks will have a significant improvement in QOL and psychological distress compared to adolescents in the control group. Also, it is expected that adolescent girls in the TM group will have lower salivary cortisol levels and lower blood pressure. Conclusions This study will be the first to evaluate the effect of TM on QOL in adolescent girls with PCOS. The study will provide valuable information on a potential self-management strategy to improve QOL and well-being in adolescent girls with PCOS. Trial Registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) ACTRN1261900019010; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=376657&amp;isReview=true International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/14542
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Affiliation(s)
- Erandi Hewawasam
- Discipline of Paediatrics, Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Women's and Children's Hospital, North Adelaide, Australia
| | - Leah Brennan
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Australia.,Centre for Eating, Weight and Body Image, Melbourne, Australia.,School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Wodonga, Australia
| | - Lynne Giles
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Mary Louise Hull
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Women's and Children's Hospital, North Adelaide, Australia.,Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, North Adelaide, Australia
| | - Asha Short
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Women's and Children's Hospital, North Adelaide, Australia
| | - Robert Norman
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, North Adelaide, Australia
| | - Alexia S Peña
- Discipline of Paediatrics, Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Women's and Children's Hospital, North Adelaide, Australia
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16
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Acute and Subacute Triggers of Cardiovascular Events. Am J Cardiol 2018; 122:2157-2165. [PMID: 30309628 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2018.08.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Inability to predict short-term cardiovascular (CV) events and take immediate preemptive actions has long been the Achilles heel of cardiology. However, certain triggers of these events have come to light. Although these triggers are nonspecific and are part of normal life, studying their temporal relationship with the onset of CV events provides an opportunity to alert high-risk atherosclerotic patients who may be most vulnerable to such triggers, the "vulnerable patient". Herein, we review the literature and shed light on the epidemiology and underlying pathophysiology of different triggers. We describe that certain adrenergic triggers can precipitate a CV event within minutes or hours; whereas triggers that elicit an immune or inflammatory response such as infections may tip an asymptomatic "vulnerable patient" to become symptomatic days and weeks later. In conclusion, healthcare providers should counsel high-risk CV patients (e.g., in secondary prevention clinics or those with coronary artery Calcium >75th percentile) on the topic, advise them to avoid such triggers, take protective measures once exposed, and seek emergency care immediately after becoming symptomatic after such triggers. Furthermore, clinical trials targeting triggers (prevention or intervention) are needed.
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Aggarwal M, Bozkurt B, Panjrath G, Aggarwal B, Ostfeld RJ, Barnard ND, Gaggin H, Freeman AM, Allen K, Madan S, Massera D, Litwin SE. Lifestyle Modifications for Preventing and Treating Heart Failure. J Am Coll Cardiol 2018; 72:2391-2405. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2018.08.2160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2017] [Revised: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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18
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Travis F, Valosek L, Konrad A, Link J, Salerno J, Scheller R, Nidich S. Effect of meditation on psychological distress and brain functioning: A randomized controlled study. Brain Cogn 2018; 125:100-105. [PMID: 29936408 DOI: 10.1016/j.bandc.2018.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Revised: 03/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychological stability and brain integration are important factors related to physical and mental health and organization effectiveness. This study tested whether a mind-body technique, the Transcendental Meditation (TM) program could increase EEG brain integration and positive affect, and decrease psychological distress in government employees. METHOD Ninety-six central office administrators and staff at the San Francisco Unified School District were randomly assigned to either immediate start of the TM program or to a wait-list control group. At baseline and four-month posttest, participants completed an online version of the Profile of Mood States questionnaire (POMS). In addition, a subset of this population (N = 79) had their EEG recorded at baseline and at four-month posttest to calculate Brain Integration Scale (BIS) scores. RESULTS At posttest, TM participants significantly decreased on the POMS Total Mood Disturbance and anxiety, anger, depression, fatigue, and confusion subscales, and significantly increased in the POMS vigor subscale. TM participants in the EEG-subgroup also significantly increased in BIS scores. Compliance with meditation practice was high (93%). CONCLUSION Findings indicate the feasibility and effectiveness of implementing the TM program to improve brain integration and positive affect and reduce psychological distress in government administrators and staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred Travis
- Center for Wellness & Achievement in Education, United States; Center for Brain Consciousness and Cognition, Maharishi University of Management, Fairfield, IA, United States
| | - Laurent Valosek
- Center for Wellness & Achievement in Education, United States.
| | - Arthur Konrad
- University of California at Santa Cruz (Graduate), United States
| | - Janice Link
- San Francisco Unified School District, United States
| | - John Salerno
- Center for Wellness & Achievement in Education, United States; Center for Social and Emotional Health, Maharishi University of Management, Fairfield, IA, United States
| | - Ray Scheller
- Center for Wellness & Achievement in Education, United States; Center for Social and Emotional Health, Maharishi University of Management, Fairfield, IA, United States
| | - Sanford Nidich
- Center for Wellness & Achievement in Education, United States; Center for Social and Emotional Health, Maharishi University of Management, Fairfield, IA, United States
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19
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Bennett RI, Egan H, Cook A, Mantzios M. Mindfulness as an Intervention for Recalling Information from a Lecture as a Measure of Academic Performance in Higher Education. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/2347631117738649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Higher education students experience heightened levels of stress and anxiety, and report experiencing negative thoughts and emotions, which influence information retention and recall. In a randomized experiment, we assigned participants to either a mindfulness meditation or an audiobook listening condition, and recorded the information recalled from a previously attended lecture, which was controlled for in subsequent analyses for trait resiliency and trait mindfulness. Participants placed in the mindfulness meditation condition recalled significantly more information than participants who were placed in the audiobook listening condition, even when controlling for resiliency and mindfulness. Future directions are suggested in an attempt to expand the literature and research around higher education, mindfulness and individual differences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Helen Egan
- Department of Psychology, Birmingham City University, United kingdom
| | - Amy Cook
- Department of Psychology, Birmingham City University, United kingdom
| | - Michail Mantzios
- Department of Psychology, Birmingham City University, United kingdom
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20
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Pascoe MC, Thompson DR, Jenkins ZM, Ski CF. Mindfulness mediates the physiological markers of stress: Systematic review and meta-analysis. J Psychiatr Res 2017; 95:156-178. [PMID: 28863392 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2017.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 197] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Revised: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Meditation is a popular form of stress management, argued to mediate stress reactivity. However, many studies in this field commonly fail to include an active control group. Given the frequency with which people are selecting meditation as a form of self-management, it is important to validate if the practice is effective in mediating stress-reactivity using well-controlled studies. Thus, we aimed to conduct a meta-analysis investigating the neurobiological effects of meditation, including focused attention, open monitoring and automatic self-transcending subtypes, compared to an active control, on markers of stress. In the current meta-analysis and systematic review, we included randomised controlled trials comparing meditation interventions compared to an active control on physiological markers of stress. Studied outcomes include cortisol, blood pressure, heart-rate, lipids and peripheral cytokine expression. Forty-five studies were included. All meditation subtypes reduced systolic blood pressure. Focused attention meditations also reduced cortisol and open monitoring meditations also reduced heart rate. When all meditation forms were analysed together, meditation reduced cortisol, C - reactive protein, blood pressure, heart rate, triglycerides and tumour necrosis factor-alpha. Overall, meditation practice leads to decreased physiological markers of stress in a range of populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela C Pascoe
- Department of Cancer Experiences, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia.
| | - David R Thompson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia.
| | - Zoe M Jenkins
- Mental Health Service, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3065, Australia.
| | - Chantal F Ski
- Mental Health Service, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC 3065, Australia; Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia.
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21
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Benvenutti MJ, Alves EDS, Michael S, Ding D, Stamatakis E, Edwards KM. A single session of hatha yoga improves stress reactivity and recovery after an acute psychological stress task-A counterbalanced, randomized-crossover trial in healthy individuals. Complement Ther Med 2017; 35:120-126. [PMID: 29154056 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2017.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Revised: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Yoga is promoted as an anti-stress activity, however, little is known about the mechanisms through which it acts. The present study investigated the acute effects of a hatha yoga session, displayed on a video, on the response to and recovery from an acute psychological stressor. METHODS Twenty-four healthy young adults took part in a counterbalanced, randomized-crossover trial, with a yoga and a control condition (watching TV). Participants attended the laboratory in the afternoon on two days and each session comprised a baseline, control or yoga task, stress task and recovery. Blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR) and salivary cortisol responses were measured. State cognitive- and somatic-anxiety along with self-confidence were assessed before and after the stressor. RESULTS Although no difference in the BP or HR responses to stress were found between conditions, systolic BP (p=0.047) and diastolic BP (p=0.018) recovery from stress were significantly accelerated and salivary cortisol reactivity was significantly lower (p=0.01) in the yoga condition. A yoga session also increased self-confidence (p=0.006) in preparation for the task and after completion. Moreover, self-confidence reported after the stress task was considered debilitative towards performance in the control condition, but remained facilitative in the yoga condition. CONCLUSION Our results show that a single video-instructed session of hatha yoga was able to improve stress reactivity and recovery from an acute stress task in healthy individuals. These positive preliminary findings encourage further investigation in at-risk populations in which the magnitude of effects may be greater, and support the use of yoga for stress reactivity and recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateus J Benvenutti
- The Faculty of Health Sciences and Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Departmento de Medicina, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, UEM, Maringá, Brazil
| | - Eduardo da Sliva Alves
- The Faculty of Health Sciences and Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Departmento de Esportes, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, UFMG, BELO HORIZONTE, Brazil
| | - Scott Michael
- The Faculty of Health Sciences and Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ding Ding
- Prevention Research Collaboration, School of Public Health, Sydney Medical School, Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Emmanuel Stamatakis
- Prevention Research Collaboration, School of Public Health, Sydney Medical School, Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Department of Epidemiology & Public Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Healthcare, University College London, London, UK
| | - Kate M Edwards
- The Faculty of Health Sciences and Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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22
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Transcendental meditation for lowering blood pressure: An overview of systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Complement Ther Med 2017; 34:26-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2017.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Revised: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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23
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Bernardi NF, Bordino M, Bianchi L, Bernardi L. Acute fall and long-term rise in oxygen saturation in response to meditation. Psychophysiology 2017; 54:1951-1966. [DOI: 10.1111/psyp.12972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Revised: 05/28/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò F. Bernardi
- Department of Psychology; McGill University; Montréal Québec Canada
- International Laboratory for Brain, Music and Sound Research; Montréal Québec Canada
| | - Marco Bordino
- Folkälsan Institute of Genetics, Folkälsan Research Center, University of Helsinki; Helsinki Finland
| | - Lucio Bianchi
- Department of Internal Medicine; University of Pavia; Pavia Italy
| | - Luciano Bernardi
- Folkälsan Institute of Genetics, Folkälsan Research Center, University of Helsinki; Helsinki Finland
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24
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Joshi A, Kiran R, Singla HK, Sah AN. Stress management through regulation of blood pressure among college students. Work 2017; 54:745-52. [PMID: 27286072 DOI: 10.3233/wor-162308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This paper introduces the concept of Deep Breathing and its applications as one of the means towards stress management through regulation of blood pressure among Indian College Engineering students. The underlying concept of deep breathing is that the relation between emotions and breathing is two way, i.e. not only do emotions affect the breathing, but controlled deep breathing also has an effect on emotions. OBJECTIVE The objective of the paper is to find out whether deep breathing technique is able to control blood pressure, and in turn, the level of stress. METHODS Sample students had a selection through initial screening and the students who reported high mental stress during interview were selected for the main drills. All the readings are taken using a sphygmomanometer (digital blood pressure meter). Students' t test are used for the purpose of hypothesis testing. RESULTS The results indicated that the deep breathing technique provided significant results. CONCLUSION It is recommended that this amazingly simple and yet highly effective ancient technique of deep breathing become part of students' routine curriculum. The paper aims at spreading the awareness of this yogic technique as one of the modes of Stress Management amongst Indian college students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anurag Joshi
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Thapar University, Patiala, Punjab, India.,Electrical Engineering, Thapar Polytechnic College, Patiala, Punjab, India
| | - Ravi Kiran
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Thapar University, Patiala, Punjab, India
| | | | - Ash Narayan Sah
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Thapar University, Patiala, Punjab, India
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26
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Nidich S, Seng A, Compton B, O'connor T, Salerno JW, Nidich R. Transcendental Meditation and Reduced Trauma Symptoms in Female Inmates: A Randomized Controlled Study. Perm J 2017; 21:16-008. [PMID: 28333611 DOI: 10.7812/tpp/16-008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Compared with the general population, trauma experiences are higher among incarcerated women. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of Transcendental Meditation (TM) on trauma symptoms in female offenders. DESIGN Twenty-two inmates at the Coffee Creek Correctional Facility in Wilsonville, OR, with at least 4 months left of incarceration were enrolled in this randomized controlled pilot study. Subjects were randomly assigned to either the TM group (n = 11) or a wait-list control group (n = 11). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Subjects were measured at baseline and 4-month posttest using the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist-Civilian version (PCL-C; primary outcome) with intrusive thoughts, avoidance, and hyperarousal subscales (secondary outcomes). Twenty of the subjects (10 in each group) took part in their treatment assignment and completed posttesting. RESULTS Significant reductions were found on total trauma (p < 0.036), intrusive thoughts (p < 0.026), and hyperarousal (p < 0.043) on the PCL-C. Effect sizes ranged from 0.65 to 0.99 for all variables. Eighty-one percent of the TM subjects were compliant with their program. CONCLUSION The results of this study indicate feasibility of the TM program in a female prison population and suggest that TM may be an effective tool for decreasing trauma symptoms. Future large-scale research is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanford Nidich
- Professor and Director of the Center for Social and Emotional Health at Maharishi University of Management in Fairfield, IA.
| | - Angela Seng
- Affiliated Research Associate at the Center for Social and Emotional Health at Maharishi University of Management in Fairfield, IA.
| | - Blaze Compton
- Affiliated Research Associate at the Center for Social and Emotional Health at Maharishi University of Management in Fairfield, IA.
| | - Tom O'connor
- Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice at Western Oregon University in Monmouth.
| | - John W Salerno
- Assistant Director of the Center for Natural Medicine and Prevention at Maharishi University of Management in Fairfield, IA.
| | - Randi Nidich
- Senior Researcher at the Center for Social and Emotional Health at Maharishi University of Management in Fairfield, IA.
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Bilican FI. The Relationship Between Focused Attention Meditation Practice Habits, Psychological Symptoms, and Quality of Life. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2016; 55:1980-1995. [PMID: 26899246 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-016-0204-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the relationship between focused attention meditation practice habits, psychological symptoms, and quality of life. The participants were 30 adults from New York, NY, practicing Ananda Marga spirituality. They were administered the Symptom Check List-90-R and the Quality of Life Index. The findings pointed out while Ananda Marga meditation practice habits were not associated with improvements in psychological symptoms, longer years in meditation practice was associated with improvements in overall, social and psychological/spiritual quality of life. Longer periods of meditation practice per session were related to lower levels of overall quality of life and economic quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Isil Bilican
- Psychology Department, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Unalan Mah. Unalan Sok. D-100, Karayolu Yanyol, Uskudar, 34700, Istanbul, Turkey.
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Gould LF, Dariotis JK, Greenberg MT, Mendelson T. Assessing Fidelity of Implementation (FOI) for School-Based Mindfulness and Yoga Interventions: A Systematic Review. Mindfulness (N Y) 2016; 7:5-33. [PMID: 27158278 PMCID: PMC4856056 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-015-0395-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
As school-based mindfulness and yoga programs gain popularity, the systematic study of fidelity of program implementation (FOI) is critical to provide a more robust understanding of the core components of mindfulness and yoga interventions, their potential to improve specified teacher and student outcomes, and our ability to implement these programs consistently and effectively. This paper reviews the current state of the science with respect to inclusion and reporting of FOI in peer-reviewed studies examining the effects of school-based mindfulness and/or yoga programs targeting students and/or teachers implemented in grades kindergarten through twelve (K-12) in North America. Electronic searches in PsychInfo and Web of Science from their inception through May 2014, in addition to hand searches of relevant review articles, identified 312 publications, 48 of which met inclusion criteria. Findings indicated a relative paucity of rigorous FOI. Fewer than 10% of studies outlined potential core program components or referenced a formal theory of action, and fewer than 20% assessed any aspect of FOI beyond participant dosage. The emerging nature of the evidence base provides a critical window of opportunity to grapple with key issues relevant to FOI of mindfulness-based and yoga programs, including identifying essential elements of these programs that should be faithfully implemented and how we might develop rigorous measures to accurately capture them. Consideration of these questions and suggested next steps are intended to help advance the emerging field of school-based mindfulness and yoga interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jacinda K. Dariotis
- College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services
& Evaluation Services Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati,
OH, USA
| | - Mark T. Greenberg
- Prevention Research Center, Pennsylvania State University, State
College, PA, USA
| | - Tamar Mendelson
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of
Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Fingelkurts AA, Fingelkurts AA, Kallio-Tamminen T. EEG-guided meditation: A personalized approach. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 109:180-190. [PMID: 25805441 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphysparis.2015.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2015] [Accepted: 03/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The therapeutic potential of meditation for physical and mental well-being is well documented, however the possibility of adverse effects warrants further discussion of the suitability of any particular meditation practice for every given participant. This concern highlights the need for a personalized approach in the meditation practice adjusted for a concrete individual. This can be done by using an objective screening procedure that detects the weak and strong cognitive skills in brain function, thus helping design a tailored meditation training protocol. Quantitative electroencephalogram (qEEG) is a suitable tool that allows identification of individual neurophysiological types. Using qEEG screening can aid developing a meditation training program that maximizes results and minimizes risk of potential negative effects. This brief theoretical-conceptual review provides a discussion of the problem and presents some illustrative results on the usage of qEEG screening for the guidance of mediation personalization.
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Investigating the effect of transcendental meditation on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Hum Hypertens 2015; 29:653-62. [DOI: 10.1038/jhh.2015.6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2014] [Revised: 12/29/2014] [Accepted: 01/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Transcendental Meditation in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease and pathophysiological mechanisms: An evidence-based review. ADVANCES IN INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2014; 1:107-112. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aimed.2014.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Elder C, Nidich S, Moriarty F, Nidich R. Effect of transcendental meditation on employee stress, depression, and burnout: a randomized controlled study. Perm J 2014; 18:19-23. [PMID: 24626068 DOI: 10.7812/tpp/13-102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Workplace stress and burnout are pervasive problems, affecting employee performance and personal health. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of the Transcendental Meditation program on psychological distress and burnout among staff at a residential therapeutic school for students with severe behavioral problems. DESIGN A total of 40 secondary schoolteachers and support staff at the Bennington School in Vermont, a therapeutic school for children with behavioral problems, were randomly assigned to either practice of the Transcendental Meditation program or a wait-list control group. The Transcendental Meditation course was provided by certified instructors. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Outcome measures were assessed at baseline and four months, and included perceived stress, depression, and burnout. A multivariate analysis of covariance was used to determine overall effects. RESULTS Analysis of the 4-month intervention data indicated a significant improvement in the main outcomes of the study resulting from practice of the Transcendental Meditation program compared with controls (Wilks Λ [3,28] = 0.695; p = 0.019). Results of univariate F tests indicated a significant reduction of all main outcome measures: perceived stress (F[1,32] = 13.42; p = < 0.001); depression (F[1,32] = 6.92; p = 0.013); and overall teacher burnout (F[1,32] = 6.18; p = 0.018). Effect sizes ranged from 0.40 to 0.94. CONCLUSIONS The Transcendental Meditation program was effective in reducing psychological distress in teachers and support staff working in a therapeutic school for students with behavioral problems. These findings have important implications for employees’ job performance as well as their mental and physical health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Elder
- Physician Lead for Integrative Medicine at Kaiser Permanente Northwest and an Affiliate Investigator at the Center for Health Research in Portland, OR.
| | - Sanford Nidich
- Professor of Physiology and Health, and Education at Maharishi University of Management and Senior Investigator at the Institute for Natural Medicine and Prevention in Fairfield, IA.
| | - Francis Moriarty
- Clinical Director at Mountain Valley Treatment Center in Pike, NH, and the Founder of Metta, LTD in Arlington, VT.
| | - Randi Nidich
- Adjunct Associate Professor of Education at Maharishi University of Management in Fairfield, IA.
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Rew L, Johnson K, Young C. A systematic review of interventions to reduce stress in adolescence. Issues Ment Health Nurs 2014; 35:851-63. [PMID: 25353298 DOI: 10.3109/01612840.2014.924044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Adolescence can be a stressful developmental phase, placing youth at risk for negative health outcomes. Evidence-based interventions are crucial to helping adolescents manage stress; yet, most of the literature on adolescent stress is observational and descriptive. We systematically reviewed the literature on stress management interventions for adolescents and found there is evidence to support the effectiveness of interventions that aim to develop cognitive skills among adolescents; however, most studies had small samples and relied on different operational definitions of outcomes. Few included biological indicators of stress. Further study is needed to develop interventions to enhance adolescents' capacity to manage stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn Rew
- The University of Texas at Austin, School of Nursing, Austin, Texas, USA
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Han JY, Han SH. Primary prevention of Alzheimer's disease: is it an attainable goal? J Korean Med Sci 2014; 29:886-92. [PMID: 25045219 PMCID: PMC4101775 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2014.29.7.886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2014] [Accepted: 05/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia, and the most prevalent neurodegenerative disease in the elderly. The prevalence of AD is predicted to rise as life expectancy grows across populations. The exact cause of this devastating disease is still unknown; however, it is an aging-related multi-factorial disorder, and growing evidence supports the contribution of modifiable environmental factors to unmodifiable factors such as gene and ageing itself. The recent advancement of methodologies and techniques for early diagnosis of AD facilitates the investigation of strategies to reduce the risk for AD progression in the earliest stages of the disease. Pharmacological attempts at curing, halting or modifying it have, by and large, been unsuccessful, and no breakthrough is seen in the near future. However, a lot of elements that seem to contribute to the disease such as risk factors have been identified, mainly from epidemiological and basic research studies. Many of these are amenable to lifestyle modification. Therefore, prevention in the preclinical stage is likely the most effective way to decrease the incidence of this age-associated dreadful neurodegenerative condition, and its associated burden for individuals and society. We provide an overview of modifiable risk factors for AD along with the supporting evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jee-Young Han
- Department of Neurology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seol-Heui Han
- Department of Neurology, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Center for Geriatric Neuroscience Research, Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
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Sieverdes JC, Mueller M, Gregoski MJ, Brunner-Jackson B, McQuade L, Matthews C, Treiber FA. Effects of Hatha yoga on blood pressure, salivary α-amylase, and cortisol function among normotensive and prehypertensive youth. J Altern Complement Med 2014; 20:241-50. [PMID: 24620850 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2013.0139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Evidence is accumulating, predominantly among clinical trials in adults, that yoga improves blood pressure (BP) control, with downregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) projected as underlying mechanisms. This pilot study assessed whether Hatha yoga has the potential to reduce BP among youth and whether dampening of the SNS and/or HPA activity is a likely pathway of change. DESIGN Thirty-one seventh graders were randomly assigned to a Hatha yoga program (HYP) or attention control (AC) music or art class. Baseline and 3-month evaluations included resting BP; overnight urine samples; and saliva collected at bedtime, upon awakening, and at 30 and 60 minutes after awakening for α-amylase and cortisol assays. RESULTS Twenty-eight (14 in the HYP group and 14 in the AC group) students were assessed both before and after the intervention. BP changes from pre- to post-intervention were -3.0/-2.0 mmHg for the HYP group and -0.07/-0.79 mmHg for the AC group (p=0.30 and 0.57, respectively). Changes in systolic BP (SBP)/diastolic BP (DBP) for the prehypertensive (75th-94th percentiles for SBP) subgroup analyses were -10.75/-8.25 mmHg for the HYP group (n=4) versus 1.8/1.0 mmHg for the AC group (n=5) (p for SBP=0.02; p for DBP=0.09). Although no statistically significant group differences were observed with changes in SNS or HPA awakening curves (area under curve for α-amylase and cortisol, respectively), a small to moderate effect size was seen favoring a reduction of α-amylase activation for the HYP group (Cohen d=0.34; prehypertensive d=0.20). CONCLUSIONS A school-based Hatha yoga program demonstrated potential to decrease resting BP, particularly among prehypertensive youth. Reduced SNS drive may be an underlying neurohormonal pathway beneficially affected by the program. A large-scale efficacy/effectiveness randomized clinical trial is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C Sieverdes
- 1 Medical University of South Carolina , Technology Applications Center for Healthful Lifestyles, Charleston, SC
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Barnert ES, Himelstein S, Herbert S, Garcia-Romeu A, Chamberlain LJ. Exploring an intensive meditation intervention for incarcerated youth. Child Adolesc Ment Health 2014; 19:69-73. [PMID: 32878366 DOI: 10.1111/camh.12019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We examined the experiences of incarcerated adolescent males (N = 29) who participated in a one-day meditation retreat and 10-week meditation programme. METHOD Self-report surveys assessing mindfulness, self-regulation, impulsivity and stress; behavioural assessments; and focus group data were examined. RESULTS We observed significantly higher scores in self-regulation (p = .012) and psychometric markers demonstrated psychological enhancement. No behavioural change was observed. Six themes emerged: enhanced well-being, increased self-discipline, increased social cohesiveness, expanded self-awareness, resistance to meditation and future meditation practice. CONCLUSIONS Early evidence suggests that meditation training for incarcerated youth is a feasible and promising intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth S Barnert
- UCLA Robert Wood Johnson Clinical Scholars Program, 10940 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 710, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Sarah Herbert
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | | | - Lisa J Chamberlain
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
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Marciniak R, Sheardova K, Cermáková P, Hudeček D, Sumec R, Hort J. Effect of meditation on cognitive functions in context of aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Front Behav Neurosci 2014; 8:17. [PMID: 24478663 PMCID: PMC3903052 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2014.00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2013] [Accepted: 01/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Effect of different meditation practices on various aspects of mental and physical health is receiving growing attention. The present paper reviews evidence on the effects of several mediation practices on cognitive functions in the context of aging and neurodegenerative diseases. The effect of meditation in this area is still poorly explored. Seven studies were detected through the databases search, which explores the effect of meditation on attention, memory, executive functions, and other miscellaneous measures of cognition in a sample of older people and people suffering from neurodegenerative diseases. Overall, reviewed studies suggested a positive effect of meditation techniques, particularly in the area of attention, as well as memory, verbal fluency, and cognitive flexibility. These findings are discussed in the context of MRI studies suggesting structural correlates of the effects. Meditation can be a potentially suitable non-pharmacological intervention aimed at the prevention of cognitive decline in the elderly. However, the conclusions of these studies are limited by their methodological flaws and differences of various types of meditation techniques. Further research in this direction could help to verify the validity of the findings and clarify the problematic aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafał Marciniak
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno , Brno , Czech Republic
| | - Katerina Sheardova
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno , Brno , Czech Republic
| | - Pavla Cermáková
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno , Brno , Czech Republic ; Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Daniel Hudeček
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno , Brno , Czech Republic
| | - Rastislav Sumec
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno , Brno , Czech Republic
| | - Jakub Hort
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno , Brno , Czech Republic ; Memory Disorders Clinic, Department of Neurology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and University Hospital Motol , Prague , Czech Republic
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Delui MH, Yari M, khouyinezhad G, Amini M, Bayazi MH. Comparison of cardiac rehabilitation programs combined with relaxation and meditation techniques on reduction of depression and anxiety of cardiovascular patients. Open Cardiovasc Med J 2013; 7:99-103. [PMID: 24179555 PMCID: PMC3812783 DOI: 10.2174/1874192401307010099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2012] [Accepted: 09/01/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major cause of death in developed countries. Most cardiac rehabilitation programs include psychological interventions. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of rehabilitation techniques in cardiac patients including psychological-physical interventions such as Meditation and Relaxation. We enrolled 45 patients with CVD and depression. The patients were allocated to 3 groups (Relaxation, Meditation and Control). There was a significant reduction on depression, systolic blood pressure and heart rate in the Meditation group compared with the control group. Our findings suggest that meditation techniques have better outcomes in cardiac patients for improving depression, reduction of systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and heart rate than relaxation techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdy Hassanzadeh Delui
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Maliheh Yari
- Department of Psychology, Torbat-e-Jaam Islamic Azad University, Torbat-e-Jaam Branch, Torbat-e-Jaam, Iran
| | - Gholamreza khouyinezhad
- Department of Educational sciences, Mashhad Islamic Azad University, Mashhad Branch, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Maral Amini
- Young Researchers Club, Mashhad Islamic Azad University, Mashhad Branch, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hosein Bayazi
- Department of Psychology, Torbat-e-Jaam Islamic Azad University, Torbat-e-Jaam Branch, Torbat-e-Jaam, Iran
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Wisner BL, Norton CL. Capitalizing on Behavioral and Emotional Strengths of Alternative High School Students Through Group Counseling to Promote Mindfulness Skills. JOURNAL FOR SPECIALISTS IN GROUP WORK 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/01933922.2013.803504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Olex S, Newberg A, Figueredo VM. Meditation: should a cardiologist care? Int J Cardiol 2013; 168:1805-10. [PMID: 23890919 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2013.06.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2013] [Revised: 05/17/2013] [Accepted: 06/30/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Meditation refers to a family of practices that may share many similarities, but can have differences in underlying methods and goals. Religious and spiritual associations are common but are not requisite for meditation practice and it should be recognized that the basis of many if not all practices is the training of the brain and body, a process that appears to have profound effects on both structure and function. In recent decades there has been interest regarding the effects of these ancient practices on the cardiovascular system, as meditation has intuitive appeal for benefit in this area. Though there is a relative shortage of quality data, available evidence suggests that meditation may exert beneficial effects on autonomic tone, autonomic reflexes, and decrease blood pressure acutely and after long term practice. In addition, meditation has the potential to positively influence the cardiovascular system through the mind-heart connection and the anti-inflammatory reflex. There is limited but promising data to suggest that meditation based interventions can have beneficial effects on patients with established cardiovascular disease. More high quality and unbiased studies of meditation practices on relevant endpoints in cardiovascular disease are needed, including the effects of such practices on inflammation, baseline heart rate variability, arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, and cardiovascular mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Olex
- Einstein Institute for Heart and Vascular Health, Einstein Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
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Vaccarino V, Kondwani KA, Kelley ME, Murrah NV, Boyd L, Ahmed Y, Meng YX, Gibbons GH, Hooper WC, De Staercke C, Quyyumi AA. Effect of meditation on endothelial function in Black Americans with metabolic syndrome: a randomized trial. Psychosom Med 2013; 75:591-9. [PMID: 23788695 PMCID: PMC3774317 DOI: 10.1097/psy.0b013e31829ac4f4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Psychological stress may play a role in metabolic syndrome. A consequence of metabolic syndrome is endothelial dysfunction, which is also influenced by psychological stress. We sought to compare the effect of consciously resting meditation (CRM), a sound based meditation, with a control intervention of health education (HE) on endothelial function in the setting of metabolic syndrome. METHODS Sixty-eight black Americans with metabolic syndrome risk factors (age, 30-65 years) were randomized to either CRM (n = 33) or HE (n = 35); interventions were matched for frequency and duration of sessions and lasted 12 months. Endothelial function was assessed by brachial artery flow-mediated dilation at baseline and at 6 and 12 months. Arterial elasticity, metabolic risk factors, and psychosocial and behavioral variables were secondary end points. RESULTS Although flow-mediated dilation improved in the CRM group for 12 months, this increase was not significantly higher than that in the HE group (p = .51 for the interaction between group and time). Non-endothelium-dependent dilation and arterial elasticity did not change in either group. Most metabolic syndrome risk factors showed beneficial trends in the CRM group only. A risk factor score counting the number of metabolic syndrome components decreased in the CRM group only (p = .049 for the interaction between treatment group and time). CONCLUSIONS Among black Americans with metabolic syndrome risk factors, CRM, did not improve endothelial function significantly more than a control intervention of HE. CRM resulted in favorable trends in metabolic syndrome risk factors, which were examined as secondary outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viola Vaccarino
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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Grant C, Hobkirk A, Persons E, Hwang V, Danoff-Burg S. Cardiovascular Reactivity to and Recovery from Stressful Tasks Following a Mindfulness Analog in College Students with a Family History of Hypertension. J Altern Complement Med 2013; 19:341-6. [DOI: 10.1089/acm.2011.0880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andréa Hobkirk
- University at Albany–State University of New York, Albany, NY
| | | | - Vivian Hwang
- University at Albany–State University of New York, Albany, NY
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A randomized controlled trial on the effects of yoga on stress reactivity in 6th grade students. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2013; 2013:607134. [PMID: 23431341 PMCID: PMC3572691 DOI: 10.1155/2013/607134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2012] [Revised: 01/03/2013] [Accepted: 01/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
There is an increasing interest in developing school programs that improve the ability of children to cope with psychosocial stress. Yoga may be an appropriate intervention as it has demonstrated improvements in the ability of children to manage psychosocial stress. Yoga is thought to improve the control of reactivity to stress via the regulation of the autonomic nervous system. The current study examined the effects of yoga compared to a physical education class on physiological response (blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR)) to behavioral stressor tasks (mental arithmetic and mirror tracing tasks). Data analysis of BP and HR was performed using a 2 × 2 × 4 repeated measures ANOVA (time × group × stressor time points). 30 (17 male) 6th graders participated in the study. Yoga did not provide significant differences in stress reactivity compared to a physical education class (group × time: systolic (F(1,28) = .538, P = .470); diastolic (F(1,28) = .1.061, P = .312); HR (F(1,28) = .401, P = .532)). The lack of significant differences may be due to the yoga intervention failing to focus on stress management and/or the stressor tasks not adequately capturing attenuation of stressor response.
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Mishra SK, Singh P, Bunch SJ, Zhang R. The therapeutic value of yoga in neurological disorders. Ann Indian Acad Neurol 2013; 15:247-54. [PMID: 23349587 PMCID: PMC3548360 DOI: 10.4103/0972-2327.104328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2011] [Revised: 01/26/2012] [Accepted: 07/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The ancient mind and body healing methods of yoga recently sparked fervor in the scientific community as an alternative and complementary means of therapy. Since the World Health Organization officially began promoting yoga in developing countries in 1978, yoga has been cited for its therapeutic potential and has been widely recognized in Western culture. However, as an increasing number of people practice yoga for remedial purposes, researchers raise two important questions: 1) Is yoga a valid complementary management and rehabilitation treatment modality? 2) What conditions show promise of treatment with this intervention?. Objective: This review article uses comprehensive scientific, evidence-based studies to analyze the efficacy of various basic and applied aspects of yoga in disease prevention and health promotion. It specifically intends to expose the effects of yoga in neurological disorders, particularly epilepsy, stroke, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, peripheral nervous system disease, and fibromyalgia. Materials and Methods: Information was gathered from various resources including PubMed, Ovid, MD-Consult, USC, and U.C.L.A. libraries. Studies were selected and reviewed on the basis of sample size, control, randomization, double-blinding, and statistical analysis of results. Results: The pratice of yoga and meditation demonstrates statistically encouraging physiological and psychological improvements in the aforementioned neurological disorders. However, there were certain flaws and inadequacies in the study designs employed to evaluate the same. A critical analysis of these studies is presented. Conclusions: With the aim to focus attention on this widespread yet largely unexamined treatment modality, this paper seeks to provide direction and support for further research necessary to validate yoga as an integrative, alternative, and complementary therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shri K Mishra
- Department of Neurology, Keck School of Medicine, USC, Neurology Department, GLA and Olive-View UCLA Medical Center, CA, USA
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Koenig HG. Religion, spirituality, and health: the research and clinical implications. ISRN PSYCHIATRY 2012; 2012:278730. [PMID: 23762764 PMCID: PMC3671693 DOI: 10.5402/2012/278730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 623] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2012] [Accepted: 10/15/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
This paper provides a concise but comprehensive review of research on religion/spirituality (R/S) and both mental health and physical health. It is based on a systematic review of original data-based quantitative research published in peer-reviewed journals between 1872 and 2010, including a few seminal articles published since 2010. First, I provide a brief historical background to set the stage. Then I review research on R/S and mental health, examining relationships with both positive and negative mental health outcomes, where positive outcomes include well-being, happiness, hope, optimism, and gratefulness, and negative outcomes involve depression, suicide, anxiety, psychosis, substance abuse, delinquency/crime, marital instability, and personality traits (positive and negative). I then explain how and why R/S might influence mental health. Next, I review research on R/S and health behaviors such as physical activity, cigarette smoking, diet, and sexual practices, followed by a review of relationships between R/S and heart disease, hypertension, cerebrovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease and dementia, immune functions, endocrine functions, cancer, overall mortality, physical disability, pain, and somatic symptoms. I then present a theoretical model explaining how R/S might influence physical health. Finally, I discuss what health professionals should do in light of these research findings and make recommendations in this regard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harold G. Koenig
- Departments of Medicine and Psychiatry, Duke University Medical Center, P.O. Box 3400, Durham, NC 27705, USA
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21413, Saudi Arabia
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Moore C. Reflections on clinical applications of yoga in voice therapy with MTD. LOGOP PHONIATR VOCO 2012; 37:144-50. [DOI: 10.3109/14015439.2012.731080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Dhameja K, Singh S, Mustafa MD, Singh KP, Banerjee BD, Agarwal M, Ahmed RS. Therapeutic effect of yoga in patients with hypertension with reference to GST gene polymorphism. J Altern Complement Med 2012; 19:243-9. [PMID: 23062021 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2011.0908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypertension, a chronic medical condition of increased blood pressure, is a serious public health problem. Environmental and genetic risk factors are known to predispose to hypertension. The present study was designed to investigate the association of glutathione S-transferase (GST) gene polymorphism with oxidative stress in hypertensive patients and the possible beneficial effect of yoga on them. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty (60) hypertensive individuals, between 30 and 60 years of age, were divided into two groups of 30 each. The yoga group was subjected to 50-60 minutes of yogic practices daily for 42 days, while the control group included the remaining 30 age- and sex-matched hypertensive individuals. GST gene polymorphism was analyzed using multiple allele specific polymerase chain reaction, and oxidative stress parameters were assessed biochemically. RESULTS Assessment of blood pressure showed a statistically significant though modest reduction (p<0.05) in the yoga group as compared to the control group. Malondialdehyde was observed to be significantly low (p<0.05), while antioxidant capacity in the form of GST showed an increasing trend and ferric-reducing ability of plasma was significantly increased (p<0.05) in the subjects who practiced yoga. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, yoga has been found to decrease blood pressure as well as the levels of oxidative stress in patients with hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanupriya Dhameja
- Department of Physiology, University College of Medical Sciences (University of Delhi) and GTB, Delhi, India.
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Barnes VA, Johnson MH, Williams RB, Williams VP. IMPACT OF WILLIAMS LIFESKILLS ® TRAINING ON ANGER, ANXIETY AND AMBULATORY BLOOD PRESSURE IN ADOLESCENTS. Transl Behav Med 2012; 2:401-410. [PMID: 23482659 DOI: 10.1007/s13142-012-0162-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Williams LifeSkills® (WLS) anger and stress management workshop provides training in strategies to cope with stressful situations and build supportive relationships. PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of school-based Williams LifeSkills training on anger, anxiety and blood pressure in adolescents. METHODS 159 adolescents (mean age±SD=15.7±1.4 years) were randomized to WLS (n=86) or control (CTL, n=73) groups. The WLS group engaged in twelve 50-min WLS training sessions conducted by teachers at school. RESULTS Anger-in and anxiety scores decreased and anger control scores increased in the WLS group across the six-month follow-up period compared to the CTL group (group x visit, ps<0.05). Daytime diastolic BP was lower across the follow-up in the WLS group (p=0.08). DBP was significantly lower across the follow-up period in the WLS group among those with higher SBP at baseline (p=0.04). CONCLUSION These findings demonstrate beneficial impact of WLS upon self-reported anger-in, anger-control, anxiety levels and ambulatory DBP in the natural environment in healthy normotensive youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vernon A Barnes
- Department of Pediatrics, Georgia Health Sciences University, Augusta, GA
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Barnes VA, Orme-Johnson DW. Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease in Adolescents and Adults through the Transcendental Meditation(®) Program: A Research Review Update. Curr Hypertens Rev 2012; 8:227-242. [PMID: 23204989 PMCID: PMC3510697 DOI: 10.2174/157340212803530411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenesis and progression of cardiovascular diseases are thought to be exacerbated by stress. Basic research indicates that the Transcendental Meditation(®) technique produces acute and longitudinal reductions in sympathetic tone and stress reactivity. In adolescents at risk for hypertension, the technique has been found to reduce resting and ambulatory blood pressure, left ventricular mass, cardiovascular reactivity, and to improve school behavior. Research on adults with mild or moderate essential hypertension has reported decreased blood pressure and reduced use of anti-hypertensive medication. The technique has also been reported to decrease symptoms of angina pectoris and carotid atherosclerosis, to reduce cardiovascular risk factors, including alcohol and tobacco use, to markedly reduce medical care utilization for cardiovascular diseases, and to significantly decrease cardiovascular and all-cause morbidity and mortality. These findings have important implications for inclusion of the Transcendental Meditation program in efforts to prevent and treat cardiovascular diseases and their clinical consequences.(®)Transcendental Meditation and TM are trademarks registered in the US. Patent and Trademark Office, licensed to Maharishi Vedic Education Development Corporation and are used with permission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vernon A. Barnes
- Georgia Prevention Center, HS1640, Georgia Health Sciences University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
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