1
|
Xie Y, Feeney BC. A narrative review of research linking non-sexual social touch to sleep quality. J Sleep Res 2024:e14174. [PMID: 38382911 DOI: 10.1111/jsr.14174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
This narrative review describes the current state of the literature that has examined associations between non-sexual social touch (i.e., affectionate touch, touch therapies, touch with animals and inanimate objects that mimic social touch) and sleep quality. It also highlights areas for future research to clarify the links and to identify underlying mechanisms. Most existing studies have focussed on and shown positive effects of touch therapies (e.g., massage, therapeutic touch) on sleep quality in clinical populations. Although there are fewer studies examining how other forms of social touch are linked with sleep quality, the existing research provides preliminary evidence supporting affectionate touch (e.g., hugging, skin-to-skin contact) and tactile contact with animals (e.g., dogs) and objects that mimic social touch (e.g., robots, weighted blankets) as predictors of better sleep quality, while touch deprivation and touch aversion are associated with worse sleep quality. Informed by the existing literature, we additionally reviewed potential relational-cognitive (e.g., felt-security) and neurobiological (e.g., oxytocin) mechanisms likely to underlie associations between social touch and sleep quality. Overall, current research supports associations between non-sexual social touch and sleep quality. However, future research is needed to establish these links for specific forms of social touch (and in various populations), to test explanatory mechanisms, and to identify boundary conditions. Understanding associations between non-sexual social touch and sleep quality can inform the development of touch-based interventions to improve sleep quality and health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuxi Xie
- Department of Psychology, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Brooke C Feeney
- Department of Psychology, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Han J, Cheng HL, Bi LN, Molasiotis A. Mind-Body Therapies for Sleep Disturbance among Patients with Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Complement Ther Med 2023; 75:102954. [PMID: 37244384 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2023.102954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE s: To assess whether mind-body therapies (MBTs) are effective for relieving sleep disturbance among patients with cancer. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). METHODS Seven English electronic databases were searched from the date of inception to September 2022. All RCTs that included adults (≥18 years) who were treated with mindfulness, yoga, qigong, relaxation, and hypnosis were screened. The outcome was subjective and/or objective sleep disturbance.The revised Cochrane tool (RoB 2.0) was applied to evaluate the risk of bias. The RevMan software was applied to assessed each outcome according different control groups and assessment time points. Subgroup analyses were performed according to different categories of MBTs. RESULTS Sixty-eight RCTs (6339 participants) were identified. After requesting for missing data from corresponding authors of included RCTs, 56 studies (5051 participants) were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis showed a significant immediate effect of mindfulness, yoga, relaxation, and hypnosis on subjective sleep disturbance, compared with usual care or wait list control, and the effect of mindfulness lasted at least 6 months. For objective sleep outcomes, we observed significant immediate effects of yoga on wake after sleep onset and of mindfulness on sleep onset latency and total sleep time. Compared with active control interventions, MBTs had no significant effect on sleep disturbance. CONCLUSIONS Mindfulness, yoga, relaxation, and hypnosis were effective in sleep disturbance severity reduction among patients with cancer at post-intervention, and the effect of mindfulness lasted at least 6 months. Future MBTs studies should apply both objective and subjective sleep measurement tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Han
- School of Nursing, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.
| | - Hui-Lin Cheng
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Liu-Na Bi
- School of Nursing, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.
| | - Alex Molasiotis
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China; College of Arts, Humanities and Education, University of Derby, Derby, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Oesterling CF, Borg C, Juhola E, Lancel M. The influence of sexual activity on sleep: A diary study. J Sleep Res 2023:e13814. [PMID: 36646500 DOI: 10.1111/jsr.13814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Aiming to promote overall health and well-being through sleep, the present studies examine to what extent sexual activity serves as a behavioural mechanism to improve sleep. The relation between sexual activity, i.e., partnered sex and masturbation with or without orgasm, and subjective sleep latency and sleep quality is examined by means of a cross-sectional and a longitudinal (diary) study. Two hundred fifty-six male and female participants, mainly students, completed a pre-test set of questionnaires and, thereafter, a diary during 14 consecutive days. The cross-sectional study was analysed using analysis of covariance and demonstrated that both men and women perceive partnered sex and masturbation with orgasm to improve sleep latency and sleep quality, while sexual activity without orgasm is perceived to exert negative effects on these sleep parameters, most strongly by men. Accounting for the repeated measurements being nested within participants, the diary data were analysed using multilevel linear modelling (MLM). Separate models for subjective sleep latency and sleep quality were constructed, which included 2076 cases at level 1, nested within 159 participants at level 2. The analyses revealed that only partnered sex with orgasm was associated with a significantly reduced sleep latency (b = -0.08, p < 0.002) and increased sleep quality (b = 0.19, p < 0.046). Sexual activity without orgasm and masturbation with and without orgasm were not associated with changes in sleep. Further, no gender differences emerged. The present studies confirm and significantly substantiate findings indicating that sexual activity and intimacy may improve sleep and overall well-being in both men and women and serve as a directive for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Charmaine Borg
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Elina Juhola
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marike Lancel
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Centre of Expertise on Sleep and Psychiatry, GGZ Drenthe Mental Health Institute, Assen, The Netherlands.,Forensic Psychiatric Hospital, GGZ Drenthe, Mental Health Institute, Assen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
The Effect of Intranasal Oxytocin on the Association Between Couple Interaction and Sleep: A Placebo-Controlled Study. Psychosom Med 2022; 84:727-737. [PMID: 35472193 DOI: 10.1097/psy.0000000000001091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although most people in romantic relationships cosleep, biosocial modulators of sleep quality have only recently come into focus. Oxytocin (OT) might be one such modulator, as it had been shown to increase social attachment and safety. We investigated the association between everyday life couple interaction and sleep quality, as well as the effects of OT on this association. METHODS Eighty heterosexual couples ( N = 160 individuals, mean [standard deviation] age = 28 [5] years) were randomized to self-administer a) 32 international units of intranasal OT or b) placebo during 5 consecutive days. Each morning, they reported on sleep quality, and on subjective feelings of closeness and valence of couple interaction at a maximum of four times a day. Data were analyzed using hierarchical linear models. RESULTS Subjective closeness ( B = 0.43, t (73) = 3.80, p < .001) and valence (negative - positive) of couple interaction ( B = 0.50, t (73) = 3.91, p < .001) were positively associated with sleep quality. Persons with OT reported higher levels of sleep quality than those without ( B = 0.47, t (74) = 2.32, p = .023). The association between closeness and sleep quality was stronger with OT than without (OT by closeness: B = 0.31, t (72) = 2.29, p = .025; OT by valence of interaction: B = 0.27, t (72) = 1.77, p = .081). Whereas the effect of couple interaction on sleep quality was strong in men, the OT effects were especially pronounced in women. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that enhancing closeness and positive couple interaction in cosleeping partners might be a way to improve sleep quality. The moderating effects of OT and sex on the association between couple interaction and sleep quality can have important implications for sleep therapy.Trial Registration: The study was preregistered at ClinicalTrials.gov ("Oxytocin, Couple Interaction, and Wound Healing" study, identifier NCT01594775). The present analyses were not preregistered.
Collapse
|
5
|
Possible oxytocin-related biomarkers in anxiety and mood disorders. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2022; 116:110531. [PMID: 35150782 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2022.110531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Anxiety and mood disorders are prevalent, disabling, and frequently difficult to treat. Such disorders are often comorbid and share similar characteristics. For more accurate diagnosis and improved treatment, a deeper understanding of the pathophysiology of anxiety and mood disorders is important. Oxytocin, a neuropeptide synthesized in the hypothalamus, affects human psychology and behaviors such as social and affiliative behaviors, fear and emotion processing, and stress regulation. Thus, oxytocin is believed to exert anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects. This review article provides an overview of clinical studies on relationships between the oxytocin system and anxiety and mood disorders, focusing on oxytocin-related biomarker findings. Biomarkers used in such studies include central and peripheral oxytocin levels, analysis of oxytocin-related genes, and expression levels of oxytocin and oxytocin receptor genes in postmortem brains. Although a growing number of studies support the presence of oxytocinergic effects on anxiety and mood disorders, study results are heterogeneous and inconclusive. Moderating factors such as the characteristics of study populations, including sex, age, context, early life adversity, and attachment styles in patient cohorts, might affect the heterogeneity of the study results. Limitations in existing research such as small sample sizes, large dependence on peripheral sources of oxytocin, and inconsistent results between immunoassay methods complicate the interpretation of existing findings.
Collapse
|
6
|
Wang P, Wang SC, Liu X, Jia S, Wang X, Li T, Yu J, Parpura V, Wang YF. Neural Functions of Hypothalamic Oxytocin and its Regulation. ASN Neuro 2022; 14:17590914221100706. [PMID: 35593066 PMCID: PMC9125079 DOI: 10.1177/17590914221100706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT), a nonapeptide, has a variety of functions. Despite extensive studies on OT over past decades, our understanding of its neural functions and their regulation remains incomplete. OT is mainly produced in OT neurons in the supraoptic nucleus (SON), paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and accessory nuclei between the SON and PVN. OT exerts neuromodulatory effects in the brain and spinal cord. While magnocellular OT neurons in the SON and PVN mainly innervate the pituitary and forebrain regions, and parvocellular OT neurons in the PVN innervate brainstem and spinal cord, the two sets of OT neurons have close interactions histologically and functionally. OT expression occurs at early life to promote mental and physical development, while its subsequent decrease in expression in later life stage accompanies aging and diseases. Adaptive changes in this OT system, however, take place under different conditions and upon the maturation of OT release machinery. OT can modulate social recognition and behaviors, learning and memory, emotion, reward, and other higher brain functions. OT also regulates eating and drinking, sleep and wakefulness, nociception and analgesia, sexual behavior, parturition, lactation and other instinctive behaviors. OT regulates the autonomic nervous system, and somatic and specialized senses. Notably, OT can have different modulatory effects on the same function under different conditions. Such divergence may derive from different neural connections, OT receptor gene dimorphism and methylation, and complex interactions with other hormones. In this review, brain functions of OT and their underlying neural mechanisms as well as the perspectives of their clinical usage are presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ping Wang
- Department of Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Stephani C. Wang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of California-Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Xiaoyu Liu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Shuwei Jia
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaoran Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Tong Li
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Neuroscience Laboratory for Translational Medicine, School of Mental Health, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, China
| | - Jiawei Yu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Kerqin District Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Tongliao, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Vladimir Parpura
- Department of Neurobiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Yu-Feng Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Alaerts K, Taillieu A, Prinsen J, Daniels N. Tracking transient changes in the intrinsic neural frequency architecture: Oxytocin facilitates non-harmonic relationships between alpha and theta rhythms in the resting brain. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2021; 133:105397. [PMID: 34481326 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2021.105397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Shifts in the peak frequencies of oscillatory neural rhythms have been put forward as a principal mechanism by which cross-frequency coupling and decoupling is implemented in the brain. This notion is based on the mathematical reality that neural oscillations can only fully synchronize when their peak frequencies form harmonic 2:1 relationships (e.g., f2=f1/2). Non-harmonic cross-frequency relationships, on the other hand (based on the irrational golden mean 1.618.:1), provide the highest physiologically possible desynchronized state (reducing the occurrence of spurious, noisy, background coupling), and are therefore anticipated to characterize the resting state of the brain, in which no selective information processing takes place. The present study sought to assess whether the transient occurrence of 1.6:1 non-harmonic and 2:1 harmonic relationships between peak frequencies in the alpha (8-14 Hz) and theta (4-8 Hz) bands - respectively facilitating states of decoupling or coupling between oscillatory rhythms - are impacted by the intranasal administration of a single-dose of oxytocin (OT) or placebo. To do so, continuous resting-state electroencephalography (5 min eyes open, 19 electrodes) was obtained from 96 healthy adult men before and after nasal spray administration. The transient formation of non-harmonic cross-frequency configurations between alpha and theta peak frequencies was significantly increased after OT nasal spray administration, indicating an effect of OT on reducing the intrinsic occurrence of spurious (noisy) background phase synchronizations during resting-state. As a group, the OT group also showed a significant parallel increase in high-frequency and decrease in low-frequency heart rate variability, confirming a homeostatic role of OT in balancing parasympathetic drive. Overall, non-harmonic cross-frequency configurations have been put forward to lay the ground for a healthy neural network allowing the opportunity for an efficient transition from resting state to activity. The observed effects of OT on cross-frequency dynamics are therefore interpreted to reflect a homeostatic role of OT in increasing the signal-to-noise properties of the intrinsic EEG neural frequency architecture, i.e., by precluding the occurrence of 'noisy', unwanted, spurious couplings among neural rhythms in the resting brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaat Alaerts
- KU Leuven, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Research Group for Neurorehabilitation, Tervuursevest 101 box 1501, 3001 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Aymara Taillieu
- KU Leuven, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Research Group for Neurorehabilitation, Tervuursevest 101 box 1501, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jellina Prinsen
- KU Leuven, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Research Group for Neurorehabilitation, Tervuursevest 101 box 1501, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nicky Daniels
- KU Leuven, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Research Group for Neurorehabilitation, Tervuursevest 101 box 1501, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Maramis MM, Setiawati Y, Febriyanti N, Fitriah M, Atika, Salim R, Kristianto B, Sumiati N, Pradanita VN, Dewi EC, Gautama SM, Nugroho MS, Pantouw JG. Effects of Playing Angklung and Practicing Silence on Emotion, Cognition and Oxytocin Levels in Children: A Preliminary Study. Malays J Med Sci 2021; 28:105-117. [PMID: 34285649 PMCID: PMC8260063 DOI: 10.21315/mjms2021.28.3.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Playing angklung, an Indonesian traditional musical instrument and practicing silence have been shown to exert beneficial effects on emotion and cognition; the mechanism of such an effect possibly involve oxytocin. To date, only a few clinical and biomolecular studies have investigated the effects of playing angklung and practicing silence. This study aimed to examine the effects of playing angklung and practicing silence on human emotion and cognition and on oxytocin levels. Methods This experimental study involved 61 Fourth Grade students from Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia. The participants were divided into two groups: the angklung intervention group and silence intervention group. The two interventions were performed for 15 min before the morning classes for 2 months. The control group attended their classes as usual. Clinical parameters, namely, emotion and cognition, as well as the saliva oxytocin levels were measured. Results No significant differences were observed among the three groups in terms of concentration and cognitive flexibility. However, changes in oxytocin levels significantly differed among the three groups (P < 0.001) and the oxytocin levels were highest in the silence intervention group. Conclusion Practicing silence significantly increased the oxytocin levels, but it did not elicit changes in cognitive function and emotion of the students.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margarita M Maramis
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University/Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Yunias Setiawati
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University/Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Nining Febriyanti
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University/Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Munawaroh Fitriah
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University/Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Atika
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Rasyid Salim
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Budi Kristianto
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Nyoman Sumiati
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | | | - Elisabet Citra Dewi
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Sheila Maryam Gautama
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - My Safira Nugroho
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Widya Mandala Catholic University, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Jakobus Gerick Pantouw
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Widya Mandala Catholic University, Surabaya, Indonesia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Suh HW, Jeong HY, Hong S, Kim JW, Yoon SW, Lee JY, Chung SY. The mindfulness-based stress reduction program for improving sleep quality in cancer survivors: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Complement Ther Med 2021; 57:102667. [PMID: 33460741 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and effectiveness of a mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program in improving sleep in cancer survivors. METHODS Four electronic databases (Cochrane Library, EMBASE, PubMed, and PsycARTICLES) were searched for randomized controlled trials evaluating the effects of MBSR on the sleep of cancer survivors from their inception to May 2020. The primary outcome was sleep quality measured by validated questionnaires such as the Insomnia Severity Index and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. The secondary outcomes were sleep parameters obtained from a sleep diary, polysomnography, and actigraphy. The included studies were critically appraised by the Cochrane risk of bias tool and meta-analyzed. RESULTS Ten studies were included, and nine studies were analyzed quantitatively. MBSR significantly improved sleep quality compared to usual care (standardized mean difference -0.29, 95 % confidence interval -0.55 to -0.04, I2 = 58 %). However, there were no favorable results with sleep parameters. Compared to active controls, MBSR presented mixed results with sleep quality according to the outcomes and negative results with sleep parameters. CONCLUSION This review suggests that MBSR helps cancer survivors improve sleep quality. Our results support the possibility of using MBSR for cancer survivors. However, its efficacy and effectiveness in improving sleep quality and sleep parameters are inconclusive because the number of included studies was few with inconsistent results. Further studies with high methodological quality are required to establish conclusive evidence about the efficacy and effectiveness of MBSR in improving sleep quality and sleep parameters in cancer survivors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyo-Weon Suh
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Kyung Hee Dae-ro 26, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea.
| | - Ha Yeong Jeong
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Gachon University, Seongnam-daero, Sujeong-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13120, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sunggyu Hong
- Department of Clinical Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Kyung Hee Dae-ro 26, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jong Woo Kim
- Department of Clinical Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Kyung Hee Dae-ro 26, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea; Department of Neuropsychiatry, Kyung Hee University Korean Medicine Hospital at Gangdong, Dongnam-ro 892, Gangdong-gu, Seoul, 05278, Republic of Korea.
| | - Seong Woo Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Korean Medicine Cancer Center, Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, Dongnam-ro 892, Gangdong-gu, Seoul, 05278, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jee Young Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Korean Medicine Cancer Center, Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, Dongnam-ro 892, Gangdong-gu, Seoul, 05278, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sun-Yong Chung
- Department of Clinical Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Kyung Hee Dae-ro 26, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea; Department of Neuropsychiatry, Kyung Hee University Korean Medicine Hospital at Gangdong, Dongnam-ro 892, Gangdong-gu, Seoul, 05278, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bellosta-Batalla M, Del Carmen Blanco-Gandía M, Rodríguez-Arias M, Cebolla A, Pérez-Blasco J, Moya-Albiol L. Brief mindfulness session improves mood and increases salivary oxytocin in psychology students. Stress Health 2020; 36:469-477. [PMID: 32227624 DOI: 10.1002/smi.2942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) have been shown to be effective in increasing empathy in health professionals. Yet, more research is needed to analyse the specific influence of mindfulness exercises on biological variables involved in empathy, such as the biological system of oxytocin activity. In this study, we analyse the effects of a brief mindfulness session on positive and negative affect, state anxiety and salivary oxytocin (sOXT) in psychology students (N = 68). In the experimental group (n = 42), a mindfulness session was performed that included different guided meditation exercises. In the control group (n = 26), an emotion recognition exercise was carried out, along with a series of creative activities. Results showed that the mindfulness session was effective, because there was a significant reduction in negative affect (d = -.56, p < .001) and state anxiety (d = -.54, p = .007) in the experimental group. Likewise, there was an increase in sOXT (d = .99, p < .001) in this group, compared with the control group. Guided mindfulness meditation practice could be useful to reach an emotional and biological state that facilitates empathy. In this regard, the increase in sOXT after the mindfulness session adds further evidence about the biological mechanisms underlying the benefits of MBI on empathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ausiàs Cebolla
- Department of Personality, Evaluation and Psychological Treatment. University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Ciber Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBEROBN), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Josefa Pérez-Blasco
- Department of Evolutionary and Educational Psychology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Luis Moya-Albiol
- Department of Psychobiology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Morrison R, Paz-Díaz C, Gutiérrez P, Frías C, Espinosa A, Soto P, González A, Mella S, López I. Efectos de la meditación activa en indicadores físicos y psicoemocionales de estrés en estudiantes universitarios en Chile. Un estudio piloto. REVISTA DE LA FACULTAD DE MEDICINA 2020. [DOI: 10.15446/revfacmed.v68n4.77122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Introducción. Las múltiples exigencias académicas a las que los estudiantes universitarios se enfrentan les generan altos niveles de estrés; si bien el estrés puede ayudarles a afrontar tales exigencias, en muchos casos este puede causarles diversos problemas de salud.Objetivo. Evaluar si la implementación de la meditación activa en la rutina diaria de estudiantes universitarios de las ciencias de la salud tiene un efecto en sus indicadores físicos y psicoemocionales.Materiales y métodos. Estudio piloto exploratorio y cuantitativo realizado en una muestra de 22 estudiantes universitarios que aceptaron participar en un curso electivo de meditación activa de 3 meses (18 sesiones). A los participantes se les solicitó diligenciar el Cuestionario de Percepción Global de Estado (CPGE) ex ante y ex post al curso.Resultados. 18 participantes completaron el CPGE ex ante y ex post, pero solo 16 fueron válidos para el procesamiento de datos. La mayoría de estudiantes reportó una mejora respecto a su percepción sobre cómo enfrentar diferentes situaciones estresantes luego de completar el curso, por ejemplo, el 87.5% manifestó permanecer en un estado de relajación en situaciones estresantes; el 81%, una disminución del agotamiento mental, y el 81%, un mejor manejo de las situaciones estresantes.Conclusiones. La incorporación de la meditación activa en la rutina diaria de estos estudiantes disminuyó sus indicadores físicos y psicoemocionales de estrés, por lo que es necesario realizar nuevos estudios con muestras más grandes que permitan confirmar el efecto positivo de este tipo de cursos en la salud de los estudiantes universitarios, lo que sin duda repercutirá en un mejor rendimiento académico producto de un mejor estado mental.
Collapse
|
12
|
Alley J, Diamond LM, Lipschitz DL, Grewen K. Women's Cortisol Stress Responsivity, Sexual Arousability, and Sexual History. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:1489-1503. [PMID: 32006207 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-01585-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Life history theory and the adaptive calibration model state that characteristics of one's early environment influence individual differences in both neuroendocrine reactivity to stress and sexual risk-taking behavior. However, few studies have directly examined the relationship between neuroendocrine reactivity to stress and risky sexual behavior. This study used multilevel modeling to test whether cortisol reactivity and recovery in response to laboratory stress were associated with women's history of sexual behavior and their sexual arousability in response to laboratory sexual stimuli. Participants were 65 women (35% heterosexual, 44% bisexual, and 21% lesbian) who completed two laboratory sessions, two weeks apart. Women's self-reported sexual arousability to sexual stimuli interacted with their sexual abuse history to predict their trajectories of cortisol stress reactivity and recovery. Cortisol reactivity and recovery were not associated with women's sexual risk taking, such as the age of sexual debut, sociosexuality, or lifetime number of sexual partners.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jenna Alley
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, 380 South 1530 East, Room 502, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112-0251, USA.
| | - Lisa M Diamond
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, 380 South 1530 East, Room 502, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112-0251, USA
| | - David L Lipschitz
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, 380 South 1530 East, Room 502, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112-0251, USA
| | - Karen Grewen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
A Preliminary Examination of Endogenous Peripheral Oxytocin in a Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial of Oxytocin-Enhanced Psychotherapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2020; 40:401-404. [PMID: 32639293 PMCID: PMC7350551 DOI: 10.1097/jcp.0000000000001226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preclinical and clinical research suggests that the oxytocin system is implicated in the development and maintenance of stress and anxiety-related psychiatric conditions, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Recent research also suggests that intranasal oxytocin holds promise as a treatment for PTSD. However, little is known about the relationship between levels of peripheral oxytocin and PTSD symptom severity, PTSD treatment response, and repeated intranasal oxytocin administration. METHODS In the current study, we examined associations between PTSD symptom severity and peripheral oxytocin levels measured in plasma before and after a course of prolonged exposure (PE) for PTSD (n = 13); participants were randomized to adjunctive intranasal oxytocin (n = 6) or placebo (n = 7). RESULTS Baseline peripheral oxytocin levels were not associated with baseline PTSD symptom severity. Change in peripheral oxytocin levels did not differ by treatment condition and did not correspond to change in PTSD symptoms. CONCLUSIONS This proof-of-concept study illustrates the acceptability and feasibility of measuring peripheral oxytocin among individuals engaged in psychotherapy for PTSD and informs the utilization of these procedures in future adequately powered studies.
Collapse
|
14
|
Grossert A, Meffert C, Hess V, Rochlitz C, Pless M, Hunziker S, Wössmer B, Geuter U, Meinlschmidt G, Schaefert R. A clinical trial of group-based body psychotherapy to improve bodily disturbances in post-treatment cancer patients in combination with randomized controlled smartphone-triggered bodily interventions (KPTK): study protocol. BMC Psychol 2019; 7:90. [PMID: 31888741 PMCID: PMC6936033 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-019-0357-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disturbances in bodily well-being represent one key source of suffering and impairment related to cancer. There is growing evidence that body psychotherapy (BPT) is efficacious for the treatment of various mental disorders. However, with regard to cancer patients, evidence is scarce. The aims of this project are to evaluate whether bodily disturbances in post-treatment cancer patients can be improved by group BPT, and to estimate the efficacy of intermittent smartphone-triggered bodily interventions. METHODS The project is a bi-center study with two participating centers in Switzerland, applying a pre-post convergent parallel design of a weekly group BPT using a waiting-period comparator, including a nested RCT during the group BPT phase. During the BPT phase, either a smartphone-triggered bodily intervention or a smartphone-triggered control intervention is provided at random over 5 consecutive weeks, on 6 days weekly. Patients who had received curatively intended treatment for any malignant neoplasm (treatment being completed ≥3 months) and are suffering from bodily disturbances are screened to assess eligibility. Sample size estimation is based on an a priori power analysis. We plan to include a total of N = 88 subjects, aiming at at least 52 completers. Patients are surveyed three times (baseline assessment (T0), pre- (T1) and post-intervention assessment (T2)), and on a daily basis along BPT during five consecutive weeks. The primary outcome, bodily disturbances, is assessed using the 'Body Image Scale'(BIS). For the secondary outcomes standardized questionnaires are used to assess changes in experience of presence and vitality, mood, body mindfulness, somatic symptoms and somatic symptom disorder, quality of life, anxiety, and depression including suicidal tendency, vitality and mental health, as well as group cohesion. Using semi standardized interviews (at T0 and T2), we aim to explore the relation of BPT with bodily disturbances and body image in post-treatment cancer patients, as well as the acceptance and burden of the intervention. DISCUSSION The proposed study has strong potential benefits for cancer patients, as it may pave the way for new therapeutic approaches to treat bodily disturbances, which persist despite curative tumor therapy. These may considerably improve patients' biopsychosocial well-being and quality of life. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03707548 (registered 9 October 2018; retrospectively registered).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Astrid Grossert
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Medical Oncology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia Meffert
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Viviane Hess
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Rochlitz
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Miklos Pless
- Department of Medical Oncology, Winterthur Cantonal Hospital, Winterthur, Switzerland
| | - Sabina Hunziker
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Ulfried Geuter
- Institute for Sports and Motology, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Gunther Meinlschmidt
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Division of Clinical Psychology and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, International Psychoanalytic University, Berlin, Germany.,Division of Clinical Psychology and Epidemiology, Department of Psychology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rainer Schaefert
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland. .,Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Pan C, Wang X, Deng Y, Li P, Liao Y, Ma X, Yang GP, Dai L, Tang Q. Efficacy of mindfulness-based intervention ('mindfulness-based joyful sleep') in young and middle-aged individuals with insomnia using a biomarker of inflammatory responses: a prospective protocol of a randomised controlled trial in China. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e027061. [PMID: 31296508 PMCID: PMC6624060 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-027061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Insomnia is a prevalent and significant public health concern. Insomnia can lead to increased inflammatory markers associated with chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer. Studies suggest that mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are more easily delivered within the community than cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) which was recommended as the preferred non-pharmacological treatment by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, are effective in insomnia treatment and can reduce inflammatory markers level in older individuals with insomnia. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of an MBI to CBT-I in young and middle-aged individuals with insomnia disorder and explore its effect on nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), a transcription factor that controls the expression of genes involved in inflammation. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This report describes a protocol for a randomised controlled trial. Seventy eligible participants will be assigned to mindfulness-based joyful sleep or CBT-I for 2-hour sessions weekly for 8 weeks. The primary outcome is sleep quality assessed by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, severity of insomnia symptoms assessed by the Insomnia Severity Index and sleep parameters recorded using sleep diary and polysomnography. Secondary outcomes include perceived stress, anxiety and depression. The exploratory outcome is serum level of NF-κB. Outcomes will be evaluated at baseline, the end of the ntervention period and at a 3 month follow-up. Data will be analysed using general linear models, specifically analysis of covariance and analysis of variance will be used. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Full ethical approval for this study has been obtained from the Ethics Committee of the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China (2018-S236). If Mindfulness-Based Joyful Sleep is proven effective, its dissemination will help bridge the gap between the unmet need and the demand for insomnia interventions in China. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03268629; Pre-results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen Pan
- Department of Clinical Psychology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiang Wang
- Department of Clinical Psychology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yunlong Deng
- Psychosomatic Health Institute, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Peihuan Li
- Department of Clinical Psychology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yanhui Liao
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health Institute, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- National Clinical Research Center on Mental Disorders and National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders. Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xin Ma
- Department of Clinical Psychology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Guo-Ping Yang
- Center of Clinical Pharmacology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lisha Dai
- Department of Clinical Psychology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qiuping Tang
- Department of Clinical Psychology, the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Xia T, Hu H, Seritan AL, Eisendrath S. The Many Roads to Mindfulness: A Review of Nonmindfulness-Based Interventions that Increase Mindfulness. J Altern Complement Med 2019; 25:874-889. [PMID: 31241348 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2019.0137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have become increasingly popular for treating various physical and mental disorders. An increase in mindfulness levels through the teaching of mindfulness meditation is the most well-studied mechanism of MBIs. Recent studies, however, suggest that an increase in mindfulness is also observed in physical or psychosocial interventions not explicitly labeled as MBIs, or what the authors call non-MBIs. The authors aimed to review what non-MBIs can increase mindfulness levels despite not explicitly teaching mindfulness meditation. Design: The authors conducted a literature search for studies that included a non-MBI study arm measuring pre- and postintervention mindfulness levels using one of the following eight validated self-reported mindfulness questionnaires: Five-Faceted Mindfulness Questionnaire, Mindful Awareness and Attention Scale, Freiburg Mindfulness Inventory, Toronto Mindfulness Scale, Philadelphia Mindfulness Scale, Kentucky Inventory of Mindfulness Skills, Child and Adolescent Mindfulness Measure, and Cognitive and Affective Mindfulness Scale-Revised. The authors identified 69 non-MBI study arms from 51 independent studies of the non-MBI itself or as active controls of an MBI under investigation. The authors documented or calculated, if not provided, effect sizes (ES) for changes in mindfulness levels following these interventions. Results: Among the 69 non-MBI arms, 36 showed no effect for change in mindfulness (ES <0.20), 3 were indeterminate (no ES available or unable to calculate), 13 had small effects (0.20 < ES <0.5), 13 had medium effects (0.50 < ES <0.80), 3 had large effects (0.80 < ES <1.3), and 1 had a very large effect (ES >1.3) for change in mindfulness. Conclusions: Analysis of the characteristics of non-MBIs with significant increases in mindfulness levels suggested some commonalities between MBIs and non-MBIs, shedding light on a spectrum of mindfulness-related interventions and the possibility that there are many roads to developing mindfulness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tom Xia
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Hiroe Hu
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA.,Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, University of California San Francisco School of Nursing, San Francisco, CA
| | - Andreea L Seritan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.,Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Stuart Eisendrath
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.,Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mehta R, Sharma K, Potters L, Wernicke AG, Parashar B. Evidence for the Role of Mindfulness in Cancer: Benefits and Techniques. Cureus 2019; 11:e4629. [PMID: 31312555 PMCID: PMC6623989 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.4629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mindfulness is being used increasingly in various aspects of cancer management. Benefits of mindfulness practices are being observed to manage the adverse effects of treatment, symptoms from cancer progression, and the cost-effectiveness compared to conventional contemporary management strategies. In this review article, we present clinical trial data showing the benefits of mindfulness in various aspects of cancer management as well as techniques that have been commonly used in this practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ria Mehta
- Radiation Medicine, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra / Northwell, New York, USA
| | - Kirti Sharma
- Radiation Medicine, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra / Northwell, New York, USA
| | - Louis Potters
- Radiation Oncology, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra / Northwell, New York, USA
| | - A Gabriella Wernicke
- Radiation Oncology, NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Bhupesh Parashar
- Radiation Medicine, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra / Northwell, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Lastella M, O'Mullan C, Paterson JL, Reynolds AC. Sex and Sleep: Perceptions of Sex as a Sleep Promoting Behavior in the General Adult Population. Front Public Health 2019; 7:33. [PMID: 30886838 PMCID: PMC6409294 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2019.00033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: The main aim of this study was to explore the perceived relationship between sexual activities, sleep quality, and sleep latency in the general adult population and identify whether any gender differences exist. Participants/methods: We used a cross-sectional survey to examine the perceived relationship between sexual activity and subsequent sleep in the general adult population. Seven-hundred and seventy-eight participants (442 females, 336 males; mean age 34.5 ± 11.4 years) volunteered to complete an online anonymous survey at their convenience. Statistical Analyses: Chi square analyses were conducted to examine if there were any gender differences between sexual activities [i.e., masturbation (self-stimulation), sex with a partner without orgasm, and sex with a partner with orgasm] and self-reported sleep. Results: There were no gender differences in sleep (quality and onset) between males and females when reporting sex with a partner [χ(2)2 = 2.20, p = 0.332; χ(2)2=5.73, p = 0.057] or masturbation (self-stimulation) [χ(2)2 = 1.34, p = 0.513; χ(2)2 = 0.89, p = 0.640] involved an orgasm. Conclusions: Orgasms with a partner were associated with the perception of favorable sleep outcomes, however, orgasms achieved through masturbation (self-stimulation) were associated with the perception of better sleep quality and latency. These findings indicate that the public perceive sexual activity with orgasm precedes improved sleep outcomes. Promoting safe sexual activity before bed may offer a novel behavioral strategy for promoting sleep.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michele Lastella
- Appleton Institute for Behavioural Science, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, QLD, Australia.,School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, QLD, Australia
| | - Catherine O'Mullan
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, QLD, Australia
| | - Jessica L Paterson
- Appleton Institute for Behavioural Science, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, QLD, Australia.,School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, QLD, Australia
| | - Amy C Reynolds
- Appleton Institute for Behavioural Science, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, QLD, Australia.,School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Yoga: Balancing the excitation-inhibition equilibrium in psychiatric disorders. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2019; 244:387-413. [PMID: 30732846 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2018.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Social behavioral disturbances are central to most psychiatric disorders. A disequilibrium within the cortical excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitter systems underlies these deficits. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate are the most abundant excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain that contribute to this equilibrium. Several contemporary therapies used in treating psychiatric disorders, regulate this GABA-glutamate balance. Yoga has been studied as an adjuvant treatment across a broad range of psychiatric disorders and is shown to have short-term therapeutic gains. Emerging evidence from recent clinical in vivo experiments suggests that yoga improves GABA-mediated cortical-inhibitory tone and enhances peripheral oxytocin levels. This is likely to have a more controlled downstream response of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal system by means of reduced cortisol release and hence a blunted sympathetic response to stress. Animal and early fetal developmental studies suggest an inter-dependent role of oxytocin and GABA in regulating social behaviors. In keeping with these observations, we propose an integrated neurobiological model to study the mechanisms of therapeutic benefits with yoga. Apart from providing a neuroscientific basis for applying a traditional system of practice in the clinical setting, this model can be used as a framework for studying yoga mechanisms in future clinical trials.
Collapse
|
20
|
Bernhard A, van der Merwe C, Ackermann K, Martinelli A, Neumann ID, Freitag CM. Adolescent oxytocin response to stress and its behavioral and endocrine correlates. Horm Behav 2018; 105:157-165. [PMID: 30165062 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2018.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT) shows anxiolytic and stress-reducing effects, but salivary OXT response to laboratory-induced stress has only been assessed in one study in healthy adults. The present study aimed at extending these findings by assessing salivary OXT stress reactivity in healthy adolescents (aged 11-18) compared to a control condition. A higher salivary OXT response to stress compared to the control condition was expected. In addition, the association between OXT, cortisol (CORT) and psychological reactivity patterns was explored. Psychosocial stress was induced using the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST; 13 males, 15 females), while the Control-TSST (14 males, 15 females) served as a non-stress control condition. Salivary OXT increased in response to the TSST with a peak at +1 and decline at +10 min after stress. Baseline OXT correlated negatively with experienced anxiety and insecurity, while both correlated positively with OXT reactivity. OXT and CORT increase as well as OXT increase and CORT recovery were positively correlated. Results indicate that salivary OXT in response to the TSST is a valid method to assess biological effects of laboratory-induced stress also in adolescents. Due to a rapid increase and decline, salivary OXT needs to be assessed directly after stress exposure. Given the interplay of OXT with affective symptoms and CORT response, the combined measure of salivary OXT and CORT reactivity adds to studying stress reactivity in typically developing and clinical samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anka Bernhard
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Deutschordenstraße 50, 60528 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - Cindy van der Merwe
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Deutschordenstraße 50, 60528 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Katharina Ackermann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Deutschordenstraße 50, 60528 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Anne Martinelli
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Deutschordenstraße 50, 60528 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Inga D Neumann
- Department of Behavioral and Molecular Neurobiology, Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, 93040 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Christine M Freitag
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Deutschordenstraße 50, 60528 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Abstract
To cope with cancer and its treatment-related side effects and toxicities, people are increasingly using complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Consequently, integrative oncology, which combines conventional therapies and evidence-based CAM practices, is an emerging discipline in cancer care. The use of yoga as a CAM is proving to be beneficial and increasingly gaining popularity. An electronic database search (PubMed), through December 15, 2016, revealed 138 relevant clinical trials (single-armed, nonrandomized, and randomized controlled trials) on the use of yoga in cancer patients. A total of 10,660 cancer patients from 20 countries were recruited in these studies. Regardless of some methodological deficiencies, most of the studies reported that yoga improved the physical and psychological symptoms, quality of life, and markers of immunity of the patients, providing a strong support for yoga's integration into conventional cancer care. This review article presents the published clinical research on the prevalence of yoga's use in cancer patients so that oncologists, researchers, and the patients are aware of the evidence supporting the use of this relatively safe modality in cancer care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ram P Agarwal
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Adi Maroko-Afek
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
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.
Collapse
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.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Measurements and status of sleep quality in patients with cancers. Support Care Cancer 2017; 26:405-414. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-017-3927-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
|
24
|
Abstract
Medical yoga is defined as the use of yoga practices for the prevention and treatment of medical conditions. Beyond the physical elements of yoga, which are important and effective for strengthening the body, medical yoga also incorporates appropriate breathing techniques, mindfulness, and meditation in order to achieve the maximum benefits. Multiple studies have shown that yoga can positively impact the body in many ways, including helping to regulate blood glucose levels, improve musculoskeletal ailments and keeping the cardiovascular system in tune. It also has been shown to have important psychological benefits, as the practice of yoga can help to increase mental energy and positive feelings, and decrease negative feelings of aggressiveness, depression and anxiety.
Collapse
|
25
|
Mehta UM, Keshavan MS, Gangadhar BN. Bridging the schism of schizophrenia through yoga-Review of putative mechanisms. Int Rev Psychiatry 2016; 28:254-64. [PMID: 27187680 DOI: 10.1080/09540261.2016.1176905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia patients experience a 'disconnect' at multiple levels-neuronal networks, mental processes, and interpersonal relationships. The resultant poor quality-of-life and functional disability are related to the persistent cognitive deficits and negative symptoms, which are rather resistant to conventional antipsychotic medications. Yoga has emerged as an important therapeutic intervention to improve quality-of-life in schizophrenia. Recent preliminary evidence suggests that effects of yoga on cognitive and negative symptoms may drive this benefit. This study attempts to integrate evidence from neuroscience-based research, which focuses on the neuroplasticity-harnessing effects of yoga to bridge the schizophrenia connectopathy. In an overarching model to study putative neurobiological mechanisms that drive therapeutic effects of yoga, it is proposed that (a) various styles of meditation may help in strengthening the lateral and medial prefrontal brain networks, thus improving neurocognition and mentalizing abilities, and (b) learning and performing co-ordinated physical postures with a teacher facilitates imitation and the process of being imitated, which can improve social cognition and empathy through reinforcement of the premotor and parietal mirror neuron system. Oxytocin may play a role in mediating these processes, leading to better social connectedness and social outcomes. Clinical and heuristic implications of this model are further discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Urvakhsh Meherwan Mehta
- a Department of Psychiatry , National Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences (NIMHANS) , Bengaluru , India
| | - Matcheri S Keshavan
- b Department of Psychiatry , Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School , Boston , MA , USA
| | - Bangalore N Gangadhar
- a Department of Psychiatry , National Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences (NIMHANS) , Bengaluru , India
| |
Collapse
|