Mind-body Therapies Research Articles

A randomized controlled trial on the effects of traditional Thai mind-body exercise (Ruesi Dadton) on biomarkers in mild cognitive impairment.

Exercise has been shown to reduce the rate of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease. Although motor coordination movements and poses in Ruesi Dadton (RD) exercises may improve cognitive function, RD is rarely used for MCI. To date, there is insufficient evidence on whether 12 weeks of RD exercise correlates with blood biomarkers related to neurogenesis and plasticity. To determine the effects on blood biomarkers of 12-week RD in MCI. Two-group parallel randomized controlled trial. Community exercise. Individual with MCI. Fifty-eight participants (n.=29 in each group). The RD group performed 60min of RD exercises (15 poses) three times weekly for 12 weeks. The control group received no intervention. In addition, both groups were given information regarding MCI symptoms by the physician on the first day. Peripheral blood was collected to measure serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) levels before and after intervention. The effects of 12-week RD pre- and post-intervention were examined using 2×2 repeated multivariate analyses, which showed significant differences in interaction by group and time. Student's t-tests and paired t-tests were employed in subsequent analyses to evaluate between-group and within-group differences for both biomarkers. In each test, we discovered increased levels of BDNF and SIRT1 in the RD group but not in the control group. These findings suggested that RD could benefit MCI patients through enhanced BDNF and SIRT1 levels. Twelve weeks of RD might be helpful to patients with MCI and older people who experience cognitive impairment by improving blood biomarkers responsible for brain plasticity and amyloid plaque degradation.

The Utilization and Potential of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Therapy in Individuals Diagnosed with Acute Coronary Syndrome.

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) poses a significant threat to health and well-being, although percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is an effective treatment method. However, many patients undergoing PCI for coronary heart disease often experience negative emotions such as depression and anxiety, as well as sleep disturbances, poor adherence to medications, and somatic symptoms. These adverse psychological effects can contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), a highly effective mind-body therapy, has been increasingly utilized in the recovery process of patients with coronary heart disease. Several scholars have conducted mindfulness interventions for post-PCI patients with coronary heart disease and achieved promising outcomes. This article primarily focuses on applying mindfulness-based stress reduction in PCI patients with coronary heart disease and its future prospects.

Effect of different physical activity interventions on perinatal depression: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

BackgroundPerinatal depression can have profound impacts on both families and society. Exercise therapy is gradually becoming a widely used adjunct treatment for perinatal depression. Some studies have already focused on the relationship between physical activity and perinatal depression (PND). However, there is currently a lack of systematic and comprehensive evidence to address the crucial question of making optimal choices among different forms of physical activity. This study aims to compare and rank different physical activity intervention strategies and identify the most effective one for perinatal depression.MethodsFour databases, namely PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Web of Science, were searched for randomized controlled trials assessing the impact of physical activity interventions on perinatal depression. The search covered the period from the inception of the databases until May 2024. Two researchers independently conducted literature screening, data extraction, and quality assessment. Network meta-analysis was performed using Stata 15.1.ResultsA total of 48 studies were included in the analysis. The results indicate that relaxation therapy has the most effective outcome in reducing perinatal depression (SUCRA = 99.4%). Following that is mind-body exercise (SUCRA = 80.6%). Traditional aerobics and aquatic sports were also effective interventions (SUCRA = 70.9% and 67.1%, respectively).ConclusionOur study suggests that integrated mental and physical (MAP) training such as relaxation therapy and mind-body exercise show better performance in reducing perinatal depression. Additionally, while exercise has proven to be effective, the challenge lies in finding ways to encourage people to maintain a consistent exercise routine.Trial registrationThis study has been registered on PROSPERO (CRD 42,023,469,537).

An Ideal Intervention for Cancer-Related Fatigue: Qualitative Findings from Patients, Community Partners, and Healthcare Providers.

Patients consistently rate cancer-related fatigue (CrF) as the most prevalent and debilitating symptom. CrF is an important but often neglected patient concern, partly due to barriers to implementing evidence-based interventions. This study explored what an ideal intervention for CrF would look like from the perspectives of different stakeholders and the barriers to its implementation. Three participant populations were recruited: healthcare providers (HCPs; n = 32), community support providers (CSPs; n = 14), and cancer patients (n = 16). Data were collected via nine focus groups and four semi-structured interviews. Data were coded into themes using content analysis. Two main themes emerged around addressing CrF: "It takes a village" and "This will not be easy". Participants discussed an intervention for CrF could be anywhere, offered by anyone and everyone, and provided early and frequently throughout the cancer experience and could include peer support, psychoeducation, physical activity, mind-body interventions, and interdisciplinary care. Patients, HCPs, and CSPs described several potential barriers to implementation, including patient barriers (i.e., patient variability, accessibility, online literacy, and overload of information) and systems barriers (i.e., costs, lack of HCP knowledge, system insufficiency, and time). As CrF is a common post-treatment symptom, it is imperative to offer patients adequate support to manage CrF. This study lays the groundwork for the implementation of a patient-centered intervention for CrF in Canada and possibly elsewhere.

Efficacy of Traditional Chinese Medicine Combined Online Group Psychotherapy (TCM-eRhab) on improving quality of life and relieving psychological burden for colorectal cancer survivors: a study protocol for a phase-II randomized controlled trial

BackgroundMore than 50% of colorectal cancer(CRC) patients experience cancer-related psychological burden after radical surgery, which can seriously affect their physical wellness, quality of life and even survival outcomes. Our research team developed a six-week Traditional Chinese Medicine Combined Online Group Psychotherapy (TCM-eRhab) and proved its efficacy on relieving cancer-related anxiety, depression and fear of cancer recurrence though phase I single arm clinical trial (n = 40). Large sample size randomized controlled clinical trial(RCT) is necessary to further evaluate TCM-eRhab’s role on improving quality of life and survival outcomes among this population. MethodsWe design a phase II RCT study, in which 210 CRC patients who have received radical surgery (stage I-III) will be recruited. Eligible patients will be randomly assigned to TCM-eRhab group or usual care group by 2:1 ratio. Patients in the intervention group will receive the structured TCM-eRhab program for six weeks, while patients in control group will receive usual care only. The primary outcomes are quality of life, severity of anxiety, depression and fear of cancer recurrence. Cancer recurrence rate will also be calculated according to long term follow-up data.DiscussionAs one of the first RCTs to evaluate the impacts of TCM combined psychological therapy to improve CRC patients’ quality of life after surgery, the results from this study will provide innovative knowledge and evidence on integrating TCM into CRC survivorship care and mind–body intervention model.

EMPower: An online Mind-body wellness Program for adults living with chronic health conditions: A three-armed randomized controlled trial protocol

BackgroundSymptoms of depression and anxiety are prevalent among adults with chronic health conditions, contributing to reduced quality of life, morbidity, and mortality. Mind-body wellness interventions (i.e. psychology programming, mindful movement, breathwork, meditation) may impact mental health symptoms, with online delivery offering access and scalability. Whether online mind-body wellness interventions are effective in improving patient outcomes across a broad range of chronic conditions remains uncertain. MethodsThis three-armed, pragmatic, randomized controlled trial will use a nested mixed methods approach to assess the effectiveness of an online mind-body wellness intervention (eMPower), offered at two levels of personnel support, on symptoms of anxiety and depression in adults with chronic health conditions. Inclusion criteria require a self-reported chronic condition and access to an internet-connected device. Eligible participants will be randomized 1:1:1 to [1] waitlist control; [2] eMPower; [3] eMPower + weekly 1-to-1 check-in. The primary analysis will compare the Hospital and Anxiety Depression Scale (HADS) total score between eMPower + weekly 1-to-1 check-in versus controls, with secondary and exploratory outcomes including HADS subscales, health-related quality of life, fatigue, program engagement, and frailty. ConclusionWith online intervention delivery, a range of outcomes, mixed method evaluation, and automated intervention tracking, findings are anticipated to enhance our understanding of how individuals living with chronic health conditions engage with and are impacted by online mind-body wellness programming. Six hundred and fifty-six participants have been enrolled as of April 5, 2024, and 598 patients have completed 12-week follow-up.

Psychosocial Interventions to Reduce Post operative Pain in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review

Background: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a common surgical remedy for patients with end-stage osteoarthritis. Although TKA is generally effective, a significant number of patients experience chronic post-surgical pain. Psychosocial interventions have increasingly become an area of interest in pain management following surgical procedures. Purpose: We aimed to evaluate the impact of pre-operative, peri-operative, and post-operative psychosocial interventions on reducing the likelihood of developing chronic pain after TKA. Methods: We performed a systematic review following the Cochrane guidelines and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist. A comprehensive search strategy was employed using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Inclusion criteria were (1) patients undergoing; (2) pain outcome assessed ≥1 month post-operatively; (3) prospective and longitudinal study design (eg, randomized controlled trial, experimental non-randomized trial, cohort, case-control studies with measurement of exposure prior to outcome); (4) English language; and (5) psychosocial intervention (cognitive-behavioral, biopsychosocial, dialectical behavioral, psychoeducation, mindfulness, meditation, psychotherapy, relaxation, mind-body therapies, hypnosis). Exclusion criteria were non-primary literature (eg, review articles), non–peer-reviewed studies, and conference proceedings. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using Cochrane’s tool for Risk of Bias 2 (RoB 2), the methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS), and the Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I). Results: Of 4297 studies reviewed with title and abstract, 4160 were excluded. Of the remaining 137 studies that underwent full-text review, 122 were excluded using the same inclusion and exclusion criteria, and 15 studies were included. Our review indicates a variable but positive impact of psychosocial interventions, such as pre-operative education, relaxation techniques, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, on post-TKA pain. Of the 15 included studies, 9 studies found that psychosocial interventions reduced post-TKA pain. Our review also suggests that cognitive-behavioral therapy may aid in reducing kinesiophobia, pain catastrophizing, and knee pain intensity. For the 12 randomized studies, the risk of bias was deemed “high” concerns for 3 studies, “some” concerns for 5 studies, and “low” concerns for 4 studies. For the 3 non-randomized studies, the risk of bias was deemed “moderate” due to confounding bias. Conclusions: This systematic review of level-I and level-II studies found that the integration of psychosocial interventions into care protocols for TKA offers benefits including improved patient satisfaction and quality of life and reduced health care costs. Limitations include heterogeneity in intervention types and outcomes measured and the varying levels of risk of bias across studies, which may affect the generalizability of the findings. The findings support a broader adoption of holistic, patient-centered approaches in pain management after TKA, emphasizing the importance of psychological well-being for optimal patient outcomes. However, the evidence is limited and constitutes a strong impetus for the further study of these interventions.

Efficacy of Mat Pilates on the resting blood pressure and health related quality of life in individuals with systemic hypertension versus standard care: study protocol for a single centered single blinded randomized controlled trial

Background Systemic hypertension is a global non-communicable disease that creates an essential need for alternate forms of lifestyle modifications, including exercise, to lower elevated blood pressure. Mat Pilates, a feasible form of mind-body coordinated exercise, may provide benefits with limited resources. Objective This randomized controlled trial aimed to assess the efficacy of Mat Pilates on resting blood pressure and health-related quality of life in individuals with systemic hypertension. Methods A two-arm, single-blinded, block randomized controlled trial will be recruited with120 participants into control and experimental groups (1:1 ratio). Mat Pilates will be administered to the experimental group and standard care to the control group for 12 weeks. Resting and central blood pressure, health-related quality of life, and echocardiographic parameters will be measured before and after the trial. We hypothesized that Pilates may not be beneficial in lowering resting blood pressure in hypertensive patients. A repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) will test the within- and between-group effects of Mat Pilates on various outcomes. Ethics and Dissemination The trial was approved by the Institutional Research Committee, Manipal College of Health Professions, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Kasturba Medical College, and Kasturba Hospital Institutional Ethics Committee, Manipal. Written informed consent will be obtained from all the participants. All stakeholders and committees will communicate key findings regarding the implementation of mind-body association exercises as a measure of lifestyle modification in individuals with systemic hypertension. Trial registration Clinical Trials Registry of India: CTRI/2021/07/035002. Registered on July 20, 2021, http://ctri.nic.in.

Impact of physical activity on executive function in primary school children with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review

Objectives Physical activity (PA) has many significant health benefits for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The aim of the present systematic review was to synthesise published studies focusing on the effect of PA interventions on executive function (EF) 6–12-year-old-children with ASD. To our knowledge, no systematic review has yet been conducted to examine the effects of PA interventions on EF in primary school children with ASD. Findings from this review could aid primary school professionals in identifying effective interventions to address EF difficulties. Methods The present systematic review adhered to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Studies found in the Pubmed, Web of Science, Scopus and PsycINFO databases were analysed according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Finally, a total of seven eligible articles were carefully analysed. All studies included in the present review were analysed for methodological rigour and risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane Collaboration Guide. Results Traditional PA interventions based on table tennis, basketball skills, non-static bicycling, mixed martial arts and Chinese mind-body exercise were beneficial to EF. Further, innovative tools such as exergames spoke to the interest of students and were a good option to bring into the classroom to improve EF. Conclusions Available evidence does not allow definitive conclusions regarding the cognitive benefits of PA alone. More scientific evidence is needed to establish firm conclusions about the type of interventions that specifically improve EF in children with ASD and provide accurate information to the scientific and educational community.

Effects of mind-body interventions on polycystic ovary syndrome: a comprehensive meta-analysis

BackgroundMind-body interventions (MBI) have emerged as a potential therapeutic approach, but their effectiveness in the treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) remains inconclusive. This study systematically evaluates the effectiveness of MBI on quality of life, anthropometry, androgen secretion, glucose, and lipid metabolism in PCOS.MethodsA computer search was conducted across three databases: PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and EMBASE, to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) related to MBI for PCOS from their inception until July 2024. DerSimonian and Laird’s random-effects model and Stata 17.0 software was employed for our meta-analysis.ResultsTwelve RCTs were included. MBI significantly improved PCOSQ subscale scores, including emotional disturbances (MD: 7.75, 95% CI: 6.10 to 9.40), body hair (MD: 2.73, 95% CI: 0.54 to 4.91), menstrual problems (MD: 3.79, 95% CI: 2.89 to 4.69), and weight (MD: 1.48, 95% CI: 0.03 to 2.93). Furthermore, there was a reduction in depression levels (MD: -1.53, 95% CI: -2.93 to -0.13). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of PCOSQ-Emotional disturbances and PCOSQ-Menstrual problems, with a high GRADE level of evidence for these subscales. Secondary outcome measures, including waist-hip ratio, fasting blood glucose, and HOMA-IR exhibited statistically significant differences. Subgroup analysis revealed that obesity could influence treatment outcomes.ConclusionMBI can serve as an alternative therapy, modulating effect on the quality of life and depression in PCOS patients. Future well-designed, high-quality, and large-scale studies should be conducted to thoroughly assess the impact of different Mind-Body Interventions (MBI) on various PCOS phenotypes.Trial registrationPROSPERO (CRD42023472035).

A Web-Based Mind-Body Intervention to Improve Resilience among Patients with Nontraumatic Upper Extremity Conditions and Comorbid Risky Substance Use: Protocol for a Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)

A Web-Based Mind-Body Intervention to Improve Resilience among Patients with Nontraumatic Upper Extremity Conditions and Comorbid Risky Substance Use: Protocol for a Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)

Efficacy of Nonpharmacological Interventions in Cognitive Impairment: Systematic Review And Network Meta-Analysis

There is currently no known cure for cognitive impairment, which highlights the need to explore other ways of managing this condition. This topic has recently become an area of active research. However, the availability of nonpharmacological options poses a challenge when trying to determine the best treatment for improving cognitive function. We conducted a systematic review and a Bayesian network meta-analysis to compare the effects of nonpharmacological interventions on global cognition in patients with mild cognitive impairment and dementia. The nonpharmacological interventions were classified as aerobic exercise, strength exercise, multicomponent physical exercise, other physical exercises, tai chi, mind-body exercises, traditional cognitive rehabilitation, computer-based cognitive rehabilitation, occupational therapy, music therapy, physical-cognitive rehabilitation, and reminiscence therapy. Physical-cognitive rehabilitation emerged as the most effective nonpharmacological intervention for enhancing global cognition in patients with unspecified cognitive impairment and dementia, whereas occupational therapy focused on dual-task interventions was found to be the most effective nonpharmacological intervention for mild cognitive impairment. These results underscore the importance of adopting a dual approach to managing cognitive impairment, integrating both cognitive and physical rehabilitation within the same intervention.

A pilot randomized clinical trial examining the effects of Qigong on inflammatory status and sleep quality in people with Parkinson's disease

BackgroundNeuroinflammation contributes to degeneration of neurons in people with Parkinson's disease (PD). The concentrations of inflammatory cytokines, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, are often increased in people with PD and are associated with various non-motor symptoms. Qigong exercise is a mind-body practice which has been used as a rehabilitation intervention for people with PD. A previous study showed a strong association between sleep quality and inflammatory status. This study investigated the effect of Qigong on inflammatory status in people with PD and explored potential relationships between inflammatory status and sleep quality in this population. MethodsThe study was a randomized controlled trial. A total of 17 participants completed the 12-week intervention (Qigong (n = 8), sham Qigong (n = 9)). Questionnaires were utilized to assess non-motor symptoms, including sleep quality. Inflammatory cytokines were measured by a high sensitivity antibody-based multiplex assay. ResultsAfter the 12-week intervention, a decreasing trend in the concentrations of IL-1β and IL-6 was found in the Qigong group. Moderate to strong correlations were found between changes in IL-1β concentrations and sleep quality. ConclusionInflammation is an important aspect of PD. This study explored the inflammatory status after a mind-body exercise. Further studies need to extend our findings to confirm the effect of Qigong in people with PD.

Effects of exercise on depression and anxiety in postmenopausal women: a pairwise and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BackgroundExercise has been identified as a promising non-pharmacological therapy for the management of depression, but there is still controversy over which type is most effective. We aimed to compare and rank the types of exercise that improve depression in postmenopausal women by quantifying information from randomized controlled trials (RCTs).MethodsThe PubMed, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, CNKI, The Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, EMBASE, and CINAHL Plus databases were searched to identify articles published from inception to 1 March 2024 reporting RCTs that examined the effectiveness of exercise on depression in postmenopausal women. The risk of bias was assessed using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for RCTs. The quality of the evidence for each comparison was graded using the online confidence in network meta-analysis tool (CINeMA). Standardized mean differences (SMDs) were calculated using the mean and standard deviation of pre-to-post intervention changes and then pooled using a random effects model in a pairwise meta-analysis using Review Manager 5.4. Then, a frequentist network meta-analysis was conducted using a random effects model was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of different exercise types using the network package of Stata 15.ResultsThis study included 26 studies involving 2,170 participants. The pairwise meta-analysis revealed that exercise had a significant positive effect on depression in postmenopausal women (SMD = -0.71, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.94 to -0.48; I2 = 78%). The network meta-analysis revealed that mind-body exercise (SMD = -0.97, 95% CI = -1.28 to -0.67), aerobic exercise (SMD = -0.58, 95% CI = -0.88 to -0.27) and multicomponent exercise (SMD = -0.57, 95% CI = -1.15 to -0.002) significantly reduced depression compared to the control intervention. Mind-body exercise had the highest probability of being the most effective intervention. Exercise interventions also showed positive effects on anxiety. Most studies were judged to have some concerns regarding their risk of bias, and the confidence in evidence was often very low according to CINeMA.ConclusionFor postmenopausal women, there is very low to moderate quality evidence that exercise interventions are an effective antidepressant therapy, with mind-body exercise most likely being the optimal type.Trial registrationThis meta-analysis was prospectively registered with PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42024505425).

Significance of Alternative Medicines in Treatment of Chronic Diseases: A Comprehensive Review

The treatment of chronic diseases poses significant challenges to healthcare systems worldwide. While conventional medical approaches have made substantial progress, alternative medicines have gained recognition for their potential to complement or even substitute conventional treatments. This comprehensive review examines the role of alternative medications in chronic disease management, encompassing a wide range of modalities, from herbal remedies and acupuncture to mind-body therapies and chiropractic care. We explore the efficacy and safety of alternative treatments, mechanisms of action, patient perspectives, regulatory and ethical considerations, cost-effectiveness, and the potential for integration with conventional medicine. Drawing upon clinical studies, patient testimonials, and scholarly sources, this review highlights alternative medicine's diverse and evolving landscape, its significance in improving patient outcomes, and the challenges that must be addressed. We offer recommendations for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers on integrating and responsible use of alternative medicines in chronic disease management.

Baduanjin for ischemic heart failure with mildly reduced/preserved ejection fraction (BEAR Trial): A randomized controlled trial.

While Baduanjin, a traditional Chinese mind-body exercise, has shown potential health benefits, its efficacy in improving outcomes for heart failure patients with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction (HFmrEF/HFpEF) has not been well documented. We aimed to investigate the adjunctive impact of Baduanjin on exercise capacity and quality of life for HFmrEF/HFpEF. Patients with HFmrEF/HFpEF were enrolled in this multicenter randomized clinical trial. All participants were randomized to conventional cardiac rehabilitation with or without an additional 12-week Baduanjin exercise. The primary endpoint was the distance covered in a 6-min walk test (6MWD), while key secondary outcomes included quality of life measured by the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) and cardiopulmonary function including anaerobic threshold (VO2 AT). A total of 120 patients were enrolled, and 109 completed all session and tests. The mean age of the 120 patients was 60.5 years (SD, 9.21 years), and 23 (19.2%) were women. The Baduanjin group exhibited a 6.14% improvement in 6MWD compared to a 1.32% improvement in the control group (median improvement, 25.0vs. 5.0m; p<0.001) at 12th week. The VO2 AT increased by 25.87% in the Baduanjin group versus 3.94% in the control group (p<0.001). Quality of life also significantly improved in the Baduanjin group as indicated by MLHFQ score changes (-16.8% vs. -3.99%; p<0.001). Adding Baduanjin to exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation for patients with ischemic HFmrEF or HFpEF are generally safe and could provide significant improvements in exercise capacity and quality of life.

The impact of mind-body therapies on the mental health of women victims of violence: A meta-analysis.

Violence against women is a common public health problem and causes negative mental health outcomes. Mind-body therapies aim to positively affect a person's mental health by focusing on the interaction between mind, body, and behavior. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the effect of mind-body therapies on women's mental health. Randomized controlled trials published in the last 20years comparing mind-body therapies with active control or waiting lists in women victims of violence were included. Pubmed, Cochrane, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL databases were searched until August 2023. The random effects model and fixed effects model were used for data analysis. The heterogeneity of the study was assessed using the I2 index, and publication bias was assessed using Egger's test and funnel plot. Twelve eligible studies with a sample size of 440 women victims of violence were selected. Mind-body therapies led to a statistically significant reduction in anxiety scores (SMD: 1.95, 95% CI: 1.01, 2.89), depression scores (SMD: 1.68, 95% CI: 0.83, 2.52) and posttraumatic stress scores (SMD: 0.95, 95% CI: 0.73, 1.18). There was a high level of heterogeneity in the outcome for anxiety (I2 = 85.18), a high level of heterogeneity for depression (I2 = 88.82), and a low level of heterogeneity for PTSD (I2 = 19.61). Results of subgroup analysis based on the number of sessions showed that eight or fewer sessions reduced anxiety (SMD: 3.10, 95% CI: 1.37, 4.83) and depression scores (SMD: 3.44, 95% CI: 1.21, 5.68), while PTSD scores did not change. Evidence suggests that mind-body therapies may reduce anxiety, depression, and PTSD in women victims of violence.

Impact of Mind-Body Interventions on Psychosocial and Bio Physiological Markers among Elderly

ABSTRACT Background: The global demographic shift toward an older population is witnessing an increase in age-related psychological disorders and chronic illnesses, particularly among those residing in old age homes. Mind-body interventions (MBIs) have shown promise in enhancing mental and physical health without the adverse effects associated with pharmaceuticals. Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental study involved 42 elderly participants from two old age homes in South India. Participants were divided into an experimental group, which received interventions including Benson’s Relaxation Technique, Guided Imagery, and various mindfulness exercises, and a control group, which received routine care. Assessments of stress, anxiety, depression, and quality of life were conducted at baseline and post-intervention using standardized scales. Results: The experimental group exhibited significant improvements, with reductions in stress scores from an average of 23.71 to 10.86, anxiety scores from 27.62 to 12.71, and depression scores from 10.05 to 5.24. The quality of life scores improved from an average of 37.81 to 54.24. In contrast, the control group showed minimal changes in these psychological parameters, with only slight modifications in quality of life scores from 37.24 to 38.38. Physiological and biochemical markers remained largely unchanged across both groups. Conclusion: The study highlights the critical role of nurses in implementing MBIs to enhance the psychological health and overall well-being of the elderly. Integrating these interventions into regular nursing care can significantly improve the quality of life for elderly individuals, suggesting the adaptation of MBIs as primary non-pharmacological interventions in elderly care practices.

Effectiveness of Yoga on Menopausal Symptoms and Quality of life among Menopausal women: A Systematic Review

Background: Yoga is considered one of the preferred non-pharmacological mind–body interventions to manage menopausal symptoms among menopausal women. Objective: The primary aim of this review is to summarize the findings on the effectiveness of yoga as an intervention for menopausal symptoms and quality of life among menopausal women. Methods: The researchers systematically searched the literature using electronic databases including PubMed central, The Cochrane Library, PubMed, Proquest, Science Direct, Scopus, and Google scholar for articles published in English. Direct searches of specific journal articles published were done between January 2011 and December 2022. Results: The systematic review results were reported using PRISMA guidelines. In total, 10 full-text published studies were found, and these were included for qualitative synthesis. All the 10 articles were randomized controlled trials. It included 1463 menopausal woman participants with the sample size ranging from 30 to 335. Conclusion: Research evidence, based on these 10 trials, prove yoga to be a safe and effective intervention for managing menopausal symptoms. The authors conclude that yoga is a safe alternative therapy, free from untoward effects, and a recommended choice for reducing menopausal symptoms and promoting quality of life. This recommendation is based on the evidence that consistent practice of yoga techniques will have a positive impact on most of the prevalent menopausal symptoms. Implications for practice: Yoga is an evidence-based intervention that alleviates the menopausal symptoms and promotes quality of life of menopausal women. Therefore, the healthcare providers shall encourage the menopausal women to perform yoga on a regular basis.

Pain Related Quality of Life in Neurofibromatosis Type 1: A Narrative Review.

The purpose of this narrative review is to summarize pain symptomatology and mechanisms in neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), discuss the pain related quality of life impacts of NF1, and discuss the literature exploring interventions to improve quality of life. Chronic pain in NF1 is described as headache and non-headache pain. The literature describes mechanisms contributing to neuronal hyperexcitability in the setting of reduced neurofibromin as key contributors to pain in NF1. Pain in NF1 negatively impacts quality of life with pain interference, depression, anxiety, and cognitive functioning acting as important mediators. Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK) inhibitors are pharmacologic agents that interfere with pain mechanisms. Mind-body interventions improve coping skills to improve quality of life. Chronic pain in NF1 is heterogeneous with negative impacts on quality of life. New developments in pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions offer promising approaches to pain management and quality of life improvement. Additional research is necessary to validate the use of MEK inhibitors and mind-body interventions in the treatment of NF1.