Mind-body Therapies Research Articles

The effects of physical activity interventions on self-esteem during and after cancer treatment: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

To investigate the effect of physical activity (PA) (both general and its type) on self-esteem during and after cancer treatment. A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, SPORTDiscuss, and PsycINFO from their inception to February 2024. The systematic review included 32 studies, with 15 studies (13 RCT and 2 quasi-experimental) and 3604 participants (66.7% female) included in the meta-analysis involving controlled trials using a control group and at least one PA intervention group. The study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022309771). Risk of bias for RCTs was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing risk of bias (RoB2), and quasi-experimental studies with the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool. PA significantly improved self-esteem during and after cancer treatment (pooled SMD = 0.32, p < 0.01). Specifically, aerobic PA (pooled SMD = 0.33, p = 0.04) and mind-body exercise (pooled SMD = 0.70, p = 0.03) had positive effects on self-esteem. Overall, PA interventions improved self-esteem during cancer treatment (pooled SMD = 0.50, p = 0.01) and in PA interventions lasting more than 12 weeks (pooled SMD = 0.44, p = 0.02). In conclusion, PA (specifically, aerobic and mind-body exercises) may have a positive effect on self-esteem during and after cancer treatment, with cancer status and the duration of the intervention being key factors.

Hwa-Byung (Anger Syndrome) in the MZ Generation of Republic of Korea: A Survey

Background/Objectives: Hwa-byung (HB), traditionally observed in middle-aged Korean women, was investigated among the MZ generation in Republic of Korea to investigate its prevalence, associated factors, and perceptions. Methods: An online survey was conducted with 449 Korean adults in the Republic of Korea born between 1980 and 2005. The participants completed questionnaires that assessed HB symptoms, emotional labor, psychological distress, and HB perceptions. Data were analyzed using Chi-squared tests, t-tests, and bivariate logistic regression. Results: The prevalence of HB in the MZ generation was 36.3%. Significant HB predictors included female sex (odds ratio [OR] = 2.314), poor subjective health (OR = 3.207), higher HB trait scores (OR = 1.155), depression (OR = 1.145), and state anger (OR = 1.087). Only 44.54% of the participants were aware that HB is a diagnosed mental disorder and 34.97% knew that it could be treated at traditional Korean medicine (TKM) clinics. Despite the limited awareness, 49% expressed interest in TKM treatment for HB, in which acupuncture, herbal medicine, and mind–body medicine are the preferred modalities. Conclusions: This study revealed a high HB prevalence among the MZ generation in the Republic of Korea, which challenges traditional perceptions of this syndrome. These findings highlight the need to reevaluate HB conceptualization and treatment approaches for younger generations. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies, qualitative investigations of the evolving HB cultural context, and the development of targeted awareness and intervention programs to address this significant mental health issue in contemporary Korean society.

Mind–Body Practices and Exercise in the Rehabilitation of Poststroke Aphasia, Mild Cognitive Impairment, and Dementia

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to provide speech-language pathologists (SLPs) with a background in mind–body practices and exercise to prevent and treat cognitive, language, and cognitive communication disorders from a healthy aging viewpoint. Method: An online database search was conducted using a narrative review of mind–body interventions recommended by SLPs and other rehabilitation specialists. Conclusions: Mind–body practices and exercise are a low-cost, accessible, nonpharmacological intervention that may promote beneficial outcomes for individuals who are at risk for neurologic disease. Recent research on risk factors for mild cognitive impairment and dementia suggests that the underlying disease progression may be slowed or stopped with lifestyle modification (e.g., increased physical activity). Additionally, individuals recovering from stroke could potentially experience better outcomes with lifestyle modification (e.g., stress reduction). There has been increased popular interest in mindfulness as a component of a healthy lifestyle, which suggests that both patients and therapists may be receptive to incorporating it into traditional rehabilitation practices, provided there is reasonable support for its benefits. The aim of this article is to provide a rationale for integrating mind–body practices and exercise into speech-language pathology services to decrease levels of unhealthy stress, increase physical activity, and enhance cognition and communication.

The superiority trial of Baduanjin training on patients chronic low back pain: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundCNSLBP accounts for 85% of all LBP cases and impairs physical health, quality of life, and work productivity, posing a significant health and economic burden. Baduanjin (BDJ) exercises are traditional Chinese Qi Gong mind-body exercises that have been practiced for over 1,000 years. However, the standard BDJ protocol established by the State Sports General Administration does not stimulate core muscles, limiting the effectiveness of low back pain rehabilitation. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the original BDJ protocol.MethodsThis 24-week single-center, single-blind, parallel-group randomized control superiority trial will allocate 100 patients into two groups (control and intervention) at a 1:1 ratio. The patients in the control group will perform the standard BDJ protocol established by the State Sports General Administration. The patients in the patients in the control group will perform the standard BDJ protocol established by the State Sports General Administration. The intervention group will perform intervention. The primary outcomes will be Quebec back pain disability scale. Secondary outcomes will include visual analog scale pain scores, Surface electromyography. The assessments of the tests will be performed at four time points. Adverse events will be recorded faithfully during the study.DiscussionThis randomized control trial is the first to compare a standard BDJ protocol and an optimized protocol in patients with CNSLBP. This study can help guide rehabilitation programs.Trial registrationChinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2200065618, Registered on 10 Nov. 2022. This protocol is the first version 1, which was approved on 26 Aug 2022.

"Pushed to Their Limits": Health Care Provider Perspectives on Barriers and Facilitators to Implementing a Mind-Body and Activity Program for Older Adults With Chronic Pain in a Community Clinic for the Underserved.

Older adults from underserved backgrounds experience chronic pain at a rate of 60% to 75%. Pharmacological treatments have limited efficacy and involve considerable risks. Mind-body interventions hold promise to improve pain outcomes but are typically not implemented in community clinics in which they are needed most, thus contributing to health disparities in chronic pain treatment. We conducted qualitative focus groups and interviews with 20 providers (eg, primary care doctors, nurses, administrators). We sought their perspectives on barriers and facilitators to implementing an evidence based mind-body activity program for older adults with chronic pain at an underserved community health clinic in Massachusetts. Subthemes were identified within 2 superordinate domains (barriers and facilitators) using a hybrid inductive-deductive thematic analysis approach following the Framework Method. Providers discussed facilitators (partner with clinic staff to facilitate referrals and buy-in, integrate referrals through the electronic medical record, offer groups in different languages, post and tailor advertisements) and barriers (limited staff bandwidth, scheduling challenges, inconsistent patient participation). These results will directly inform tailoring and subsequent effectiveness testing and implementation of the pain management program for older underserved adults with chronic pain in this community health care setting.

Editor's Spotlight/Take 5: A Brief Mind-body Intervention Is Feasible and May Prevent Persistent Pain After Acute Orthopaedic Traumas: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Editor's Spotlight/Take 5: A Brief Mind-body Intervention Is Feasible and May Prevent Persistent Pain After Acute Orthopaedic Traumas: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

The need for biopsychosocial menopause care: a narrative review.

Menopause is a reproductive transition affecting half the world's population. Stigma and limited availability of evidence-based treatments that support biopsychosocial well-being mean that this life stage is often associated with challenging symptoms and reduced quality of life (QoL). The aim of this review was to examine the extent literature on psychological and mind-body interventions to manage perimenopausal and postmenopausal symptoms, and apply an interdisciplinary clinical, research, and cultural knowledge framework to guide recommendations for improving QoL and healthy aging in this population. We also aimed to understand the ideal delivery mode for such interventions. Using Scopus, Medline, and PubMed, a review of systematic reviews, guidelines, and randomized controlled trials was undertaken to examine the use of psychological and mind-body interventions to improve menopause-related QoL and symptoms, including hot flushes, depression, anxiety, fatigue, pain, and sleep; conclusions were based on an analysis of this available evidence and linked to clinical and cultural considerations. Empirical support exists for a number of psychological and mind-body approaches to support QoL and symptoms during the menopause transition. The literature also identifies the need for menopause care that is culturally responsive.An online multimodal model of menopause care is thus recommended, incorporating evidence-based treatments (eg, cognitive behavioral therapy, yoga, hypnosis) and treatment techniques (eg, mindfulness, and education including nutrition support), as well as First Nations wisdom. We also recommend financial well-being approaches to support people undergoing menopause. Integrated, multimodal approaches should be available online to remove time, location, and healthcare access barriers, and be designed with diverse consumers to ensure equity for those underserved due to region, LGBTIQ+ assigned female at birth status, and for multicultural and First Nations people.

Trends in Korean intervention studies on complementary and alternative therapies in rehabilitation nursing.

In nursing, complementary and alternative therapies (CATs) can be provided alongside, or as alternatives, to conventional medical treatments to maximize therapeutic effects, accelerate rehabilitation, and enhance patient satisfaction. Fostering the correct knowledge and attitudes toward CATs is crucial not only for theoretical development but also for practical application. To gain a comprehensive understanding of recent domestic research trends, this study conducted an integrative review to analyze different types of CAT-related intervention studies in rehabilitation nursing in South Korea. A literature search of relevant databases suggested 14 papers. The review revealed that most studies focused on older adult patients, with manipulative and body-based therapies being the most common CAT interventions, followed by energy therapies, mind-body therapies, and others. The efficacy analysis of the CATs used in the selected studies indicated that their effects varied depending on participant characteristics and outcome measures, even when the same CAT was employed. To advance the field of rehabilitation nursing, effective CATs that are proven to be safe for older adult patients need to be developed and actively utilized. Additionally, specialized nurse training programs and clinical and community-based applications for rehabilitation patients requiring interventions need to be developed.

Unmet Needs in Spondyloarthritis: Pathogenesis, Clinical Trial Design, and Nonpharmacologic Therapy.

A program focused on pathogenesis, clinical trial design, and nonpharmacologic mind-body therapy for of spondyloarthritis (SpA) was presented at the Spondylitis Association of America Unmet Needs Conference IV. SpA pathogenesis is incompletely understood but involves a complex set of drivers, including genetics, biomechanical stress, and microbial factors. Affected tissues may include axial and peripheral joints, entheses, skin, uvea, and intestines. The specific role of key cytokines like interleukin (IL)-23, IL-17, and tumor necrosis factor in the phases of this inflammatory process remains unclear. New insights into pathogenesis will continue to generate targets for novel therapeutics. How to optimally evaluate those therapeutics in clinical trials, and for the various manifestations of SpA, remains less clear. Future trials need better generalizability, robust subgroup analyses to assess differential responses for distinct disease manifestations, a focus on comparative efficacy, and outcomes relevant to the clinician and the patient. Additionally, study designs need to leverage available technology to facilitate subject participation in trials. In view of the interplay between biologic, physical, and psychological aspects of disease, there is increasing attention to nonpharmacologic agents, with the aim of maximizing long-term health-related quality of life through the control of symptoms and inflammation. Recent studies provide encouraging evidence that mind-body interventions such as tai chi, qigong, yoga, and meditation have benefits for patients with SpA, particularly those with pain. The advances in our understanding of pathogenesis, novel therapeutics, and nonpharmacologic interventions have revolutionized the management of SpA, but numerous questions around optimal management remain.

How Bud Craig's Insights Reshape the Research on Pain and Mind-Body Therapies.

With his elegant studies, Bud Craig determined the structural neural basis for interoception and critically expanded our conceptual understanding of it. Importantly, he placed pain in the framework of interoception and redefined pain as a homeostatic emotion. Craig understood emotions and pain as experiences based on inferential brain processes within the theoretical model of prediction processing. This chapter aims to give a brief overview of relevant research. Mind-body therapies, such as meditation, mindfulness, yoga, Tai Chi, and others, are included as first-line non-pharmacological approaches in clinical guidelines for the management of chronic pain. Craig's groundbreaking work provided the background for our contemporary understanding of mind-body therapies and for the key role that interoceptive processes play in these therapies as they apply to a wide range of clinical conditions, including pain. This chapter reviews the tremendous influence that Craig's work had on the current state of research on mind-body therapies for managing chronic pain and how it led to new directions for cutting-edge clinical and neuroscientific research.

Evaluating a peer-support mind-body medicine intervention for healthcare leaders.

Mind-body medicine (MBM) is an evidence-based intervention associated with trauma and stressful events. The MBM intervention alleviates symptoms of work-related stress and builds resilience by utilizing self-care techniques facilitated in small group settings. Healthcare leaders who experienced traumatic stress through the COVID-19 pandemic may benefit from interventions aimed at their needs. We evaluated the effects of a peer support MBM intervention on perceived stress, resilience, well-being, and empathy for nurse leaders and compassionate care leaders. A pre-post intervention was conducted via 7 virtual and 2 on-site groups, recruiting from a large multihospital health system in the United States. Participants engaged in an 8-week program facilitated by a certified faculty group leader from The Center for Mind-Body Medicine and engaged in resilience skills building activities along with facilitated sharing. Validated instruments were used to measure outcomes at pre, post, 1 month, and 6 month follow-up intervals. Surveys included open-ended questions for qualitative feedback related to facilitators, barriers, and group experiences. Seventy-three leaders completed the MBM program, and 22 completed the four research surveys; all qualitative responses were included for feedback. Perceived stress decreased after the intervention (p < .008) and was maintained for 6 months post intervention (p < .005). Resilience increased after the intervention (p < .034) and for 1 month (p < .049) but decreased after 6 months. Qualitative responses showed that time and workload factors were the most significant barrier to participation, while the benefits included protected time with peers, learning well-being skills, and having a safe place to process emotions. Healthcare leaders face unique challenges, including workplace trauma and crises. Interventions that support their stress response, resilience, and overall well-being should take into consideration the nature of their work, the balance of time demands, and the need for peer support to overcome barriers to sustainable interventions.

Mind-Body Medicine in the Treatment of Depression: A Narrative Review of Efficacy, Safety and Mechanisms.

This narrative review examines the efficacy, mechanisms and safety of mind-body medicine (MBM) in the treatment of depression. We reviewed the potential effects of various MBM interventions such as yoga, tai chi, qigong, mindfulness-based interventions and nutrition on clinical and subthreshold depressive symptoms. Current studies indicate a growing interest in the use of MBM for psychiatric disorders, including depression. MBM interventions demonstrate efficacy in reducing depressive symptoms with fewer adverse effects and costs compared to pharmacological treatments. MBM has significant potential to improve mental health outcomes for depression. These interventions encourage self-care and stress management through behavioural, exercise, relaxation and nutritional approaches. While existing data are promising, further, more rigorous studies are required to confirm long-term effectiveness and to determine the role of MBM in comprehensive depression treatment strategies.

Mind-body medicine and altered states of consciousness in Homo

The mind-body relationship has long been a subject of inquiry from both philosophical and scientific perspectives. Ancient Greek philosophers such as Pythagoras and Plato posited dualistic models, where the mind and body are distinct substances. In contrast, modern approaches in Mind-Body Medicine (MBM) offer integrative models that emphasize the interconnectedness of mental and physical states and the proactive role of the patient in their own healing process. This review examines the evolutionary roots of altered states of consciousness (ASC) as a precursor to current MBM techniques. By tracing ASC to early hominins and their cognitive development, it posits that the ability to enter various ASC—such as those used in rituals, meditation, and other mind-body practices—provided evolutionary advantages, influencing both individual fitness and social cohesion. Moreover, this review discusses tonic immobility in animals as a survival mechanism and explores parallels in human and non-human primate behaviors involving ASC. Additionally, neurochemical pathways that govern ASC, such as serotonergic and dopaminergic regulation, are explored for their roles in promoting social behaviors, cognitive flexibility, and emotional regulation. Furthermore, the role of the default mode network is investigated in relation to psychotropic and mood altering substances and altered states of consciousness. This integrated perspective offers new insights into the origins of MBM and underscores the significance of ASC in both evolutionary and contemporary contexts.

Exercise effects on neuropsychiatric symptoms and quality of life in mild cognitive impairment: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Exercise is considered as a cost-efficient option for individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Although the potential benefits of exercise for improving cognitive function are recognized, its impact on neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) and the quality of life (QoL) in individuals with MCI remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the effects of exercise interventions on NPS, including depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, and the quality of life in individuals with MCI. There were 17 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 1,575 participants were included. The findings indicate a small but significant positive effect of exercise on depression (standardized mean difference [SMD] = -0.47, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.73 to -0.21), but the quality of the evidence is low. Mind-body exercises were relatively more effective in alleviating depression. No significant improvements were observed in sleep disorders (SMD = -1.27, 95% CI: -2.80 to 0.26). Exercise improved anxiety in one study but had no effect in the other. It also improved quality of life in seven studies, with two showing no effect. The findings suggest that exercise, particularly mind-body exercises, can improve depression in individuals with MCI. However, the effect of exercise on anxiety, sleep disorders, and quality of life is still uncertain, necessitating additional research. These findings underscore the significance of integrating customized exercise programs in managing MCI to boost quality of life and mitigate NPS. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/. ID: CRD42023445369.

An integrated approach to the treatment of Rheumatic diseases: the role of psychological interventions.

Rheumatic diseases are chronic conditions that often result in significant physical and psychological challenges, reducing patients' quality of life and increasing the economic burden on healthcare systems. This study examines the vital role of psychological interventions in the comprehensive treatment of rheumatic diseases. The findings reveal a high prevalence of psycho-emotional disorders such as depression, anxiety, and stress among these patients, which can worsen disease progression and hinder treatment adherence. The review highlights the bidirectional relationship between the central nervous and immune systems, showing how psychological stress influences the pathophysiology of inflammatory diseases. Various psychological interventions are explored, including mind-body therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness-based practices such as meditation, yoga, and tai chi. These approaches improve emotional well-being, help reduce pain, and enhance overall quality of life. The article emphasizes a holistic treatment model incorporating pharmacological care, physical rehabilitation, and psychological support. This integrated approach fosters more effective management of rheumatic diseases by addressing their complex nature and promoting better functional outcomes. The study advocates for the seamless incorporation of psychological support into routine clinical practice tailored to the biopsychosocial profile of each patient. Future research should focus on identifying the most effective psychological interventions for different patient groups to enhance the quality of life for individuals with rheumatic diseases.

Exploring Effective Interventions for Postpartum Blues: A Review of Current Literature

Postpartum blues, or "baby blues," is a common condition affecting 50-80% of new mothers, marked by mood swings, tearfulness, anxiety, and fatigue. It typically emerges within the first two weeks postpartum and can impact mother-infant bonding and maternal well-being. Left untreated, it may escalate into more severe postpartum mood disorders. This review aims to assess the efficacy, accessibility, and feasibility of various interventions for postpartum blues, synthesizing current research to inform clinical practices and future studies. A systematic review of peer-reviewed articles from 2010 to 2024 was conducted using PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases. Articles were selected based on relevance, methodological rigor, and focus on postpartum blues interventions. After screening, 72 articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. The review identified several effective interventions across different domains: Psychosocial intervention particularly peer support programs and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) were most effective in reducing postpartum blues symptoms; Hormonal and pharmacological interventions, including neuroactive steroids and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), showed mixed but promising results; Nutritional interventions, particularly omega-3 supplementation, demonstrated significant preventive effects; Mind-body interventions, such as mindfulness-based therapies, were effective in improving mood stability; Technology-based interventions, including mobile health applications and AI-driven support, showed potential for scalable and accessible solutions. Psychosocial interventions provide the strongest evidence for managing postpartum blues, while emerging research on hormonal, nutritional, and technology-based interventions offers promising new directions. A personalized, multimodal approach integrating these strategies is recommended for improving maternal mental health during the postpartum period.

The role of mind-body interventions in traumatised refugees’ primary care: A qualitative exploration of professionals’ experiences in a dedicated programme in Geneva

Post-traumatic physical and psychological symptoms are pervasive among refugees. Primary care staff face numerous challenges and often seek innovative ways of addressing their refugee patients’ physical and mental health needs. A nascent body of literature suggests that mind-body interventions (MBIs11Mind-body interventions) have a positive effect on post-traumatic symptoms in this population. But the quality of evidence is still poor, and little is known about the role MBI could play in the primary care of refugees. Following the implementation of two different kinds of MBI in a dedicated primary care unit, this study aimed to explore staff members’ perceptions and prescribing habits for MBI. Given the paucity of information about this topic, we used a qualitative design combining ethnography and discourse analysis providing in-depth insight into professionals’ experiences of MBI. Data collected over five-months of non-participative observation and the transcription of twelve interviews were analysed following the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis method (IPA) yielding four main results: (1) Generally poor initial understanding of MBI; (2) A variety of conditions and situations where MBIs appeared acceptable and helpful; (3) A persistent lack of experience and knowledge about the indications for MBI, hindering prescription; (4) The importance of articulating MBIs with mental health services. These results, in the light of the existing literature, suggest that stronger evidence for MBI efficacy for refugees is required, a key to improving professionals’ understanding of MBI, providing them with explicit prescription criteria, and encouraging stakeholders to implement these innovative interventions.

Yoga and Mind-Body Interventions for People with Cancer Eases Physical and Emotional Symptoms

Yoga and Mind-Body Interventions for People with Cancer Eases Physical and Emotional Symptoms

The Program of the 1st International Scientific Conference on Mind-Body Medicine: 4th and 5th of November, 2024

The Program of the 1st International Scientific Conference on Mind-Body Medicine: 4th and 5th of November, 2024

A large-scale, international cross-sectional survey of published pediatrics authors: Perceptions of complementary, alternative, and integrative medicine

BackgroundThe use of complementary, alternative, and integrative medicine (CAIM) is commonly used among pediatric patients for various conditions. Pediatrics clinicians’ and researchers’ perceptions towards the incorporation of CAIM therapies have varied. This study aims to investigate the perceptions of both pediatrics researchers and clinicians regarding CAIM. MethodsWe conducted a large-scale, international cross-sectional online survey with published pediatrics authors who have published their work in pediatrics medical journals that are indexed in MEDLINE. In total, 34 494 researchers and clinicians were invited to complete the survey. The survey recorded respondents’ perceptions on various CAIM therapies. Descriptive statistics were generated from the quantitative survey results. A thematic analysis was conducted for responses to open ended questions. ResultsIn total, 731 pediatrics clinicians and/or researchers responded to the survey, with about half of the respondents being faculty members/principal investigators (56.10 %) and/or clinicians (43.45 %) and from the Americas (46.56 %) or Europe (30.53 %). Over half of the respondents viewed mind-body therapies favourably (62.01 %) and the fewest respondents held favourable perceptions of biofield therapies (6.98 %). Respondents agreed or strongly agreed that there is value in conducting further research on CAIM therapies (85.52 %) and disagreed or strongly disagreed that they felt comfortable recommending most CAIM therapies to patients (64.83 %). A thematic analysis of our findings demonstrates that many pediatrics clinicians and/or researchers support further research on CAIM. ConclusionThe findings from this study demonstrate that pediatrics clinicians and researchers have varying perceptions towards CAIM therapies. Respondents had the most positive perceptions of mind-body therapies and felt they did not have adequate training on CAIM. Further research is needed to establish more evidence-based educational resources on CAIM.