Relaxation Techniques Research Articles

The role of sport psychology in improving the performance of badminton athletes: a systematic review

Abstract. Sports psychology plays a vital role in improving the performance of badminton athletes. Psychological factors such as motivation, competitive anxiety, concentration, and mental resilience have been identified as critical influences on athlete performance. This study aims to systematically review the existing literature to identify and analyze the role of sports psychology in improving badminton athlete performance. The researcher searched for journal articles, books, and research reports relevant to sports psychology and badminton from various electronic databases through a systematic literature review approach. Specific inclusion criteria were applied to select studies that explicitly addressed the effect of psychological interventions on the performance of badminton athletes. Data analysis was conducted qualitatively to synthesize findings from the literature chosen. The literature review revealed that psychological techniques, including goal setting, relaxation techniques, visualization, and mental toughness coaching, positively impact the performance of badminton athletes. Findings suggest that psychological training integrated into athlete training programs can increase motivation, reduce competitive anxiety, strengthen concentration, and build mental resilience, all critical factors in athletic achievement. Sports psychology is a critical element in the training of badminton athletes, with significant potential to improve athlete performance. Psychological interventions tailored to the individual needs of athletes hold promise in optimizing athletic potential and achieving competitive success. Future research is needed to understand better how to best integrate these psychological techniques into the training of badminton athletes and to design more effective training programs that take full advantage of the role of sports psychology.

The role of interoception in lifestyle factors: a systematic review

Abstract Interoception, the perception of the internal state of the body, has been shown to play an important role in various conditions. A clear overview of the relationship between interoception and lifestyle factors has to the best of our knowledge not yet been presented. This systematic review aims to provide insight into the current state of evidence about the role of interoception in lifestyle factors. A protocol for this systematic review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023465957). A systematic search conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases included terms such as interoception (accuracy, attention, awareness, sensitivity, or sensibility), as well as lifestyle factors (alcohol consumption, cognitive leisure and relaxation activities, eating behavior, exercise, sleep, or smoking). Studies written in English, using qualitative data, including adults, using at least one measure of interoception, and using at least on measure of a lifestyle factor were included. The review included 68 studies, in which 47 measures of interoceptive accuracy and 34 measures of interoceptive attention were identified. Six studies quantified interoceptive awareness (e.g., the interaction between interoceptive accuracy and attention). 12 studies focused on alcohol consumption, 22 studies on cognitive leisure and relaxation activities, 19 studies on eating behavior, 9 studies on exercise, 4 studies on sleep, and 5 studies on smoking. Generally, cognitive leisure and relaxation activities, eating behavior, and fasting showed positive relations with interoception. Conflicting evidence on the relation between exercise and some interoceptive domains, and moderate evidence on the positive relation with other interoceptive domains was found. Greater sleep difficulties were related to enhanced interoception scores and alcohol consumption was negatively related with interoception, while results on the relation between interoception and smoking behavior showed varying results. Key messages • Some lifestyle factors positively influence interoception and vice versa, while for other factors the results are varying or conflicting. • The role of interoceptive skills in lifestyle factors is important for lifestyle and health management.

Does mindfulness program reduce stress and enhance self-kindness in schools? Healthy Learning Mind

Abstract Introduction There is a scarcity of research with high quality methods on the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) on adolescents’ mental well-being. This study investigates the MBI effects on adolescents’ stress and self-kindness with an extensive cluster RCT design, and a role of self-kindness as a mediator for the association between the MBI and stress. Additionally, the study explores how age, gender, and an independent mindfulness practice moderate the effects on the outcomes. Methods Participants (Finnish students, aged 12-15 years) were randomized to a MBI group (N = 1646), an active relaxation control group (N = 1488), and an inactive control group (N = 385). The outcomes were measured at the baseline (T0), at 9-week post-intervention (T9), and at 26-weeks follow-up (T26). Results Overall, the MBI was more effective in stress reduction when compared to the active control at T9 (β = -0.04, p < 0.01, d = -0.11) and T26 (β = -0.04, p = 0.02, d = -0.11). Furthermore, students in the MBI group who carried out their regular mindfulness home practice showed greater decrease of stress. There were no MBI effects on self-kindness, nor did a change of self-kindness mediate the effects of MBI on stress. Discussion These findings demonstrate that the 9-week MBI is slightly more effective to reduce stress relative to relaxation training. Key messages • The result highlight the potential of MBI in increasing the stress management among students in school context. • To ensure the effectiveness of MBIs in school context we need to teach these skills to teacher students already during their basic education in educational institutions and universities.

Factors Influencing The Usage of Stress Relief Applications: From The Psychological Perspective

Stress remains one of the most difficult challenges in responding to various situations. It elicits negative thoughts and feelings in the person. Counseling, training, exercise, and other methods effectively reduce stress. However, with the advancement of technology, different approaches to dealing with it have emerged. One of the types of digital health applications was stress relief applications. This application was starting to become famous as an alternative to help individuals manage their stress levels. Numerous stress-management or stress-relief applications are available for smartphones and tablets. These applications include a variety of stress-reduction techniques, including meditation, mindfulness breathing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and relaxation techniques. This review paper explores the psychological factors influencing the usage of stress relief applications. In this review paper, researchers focused on perceived stress, motivation for self-care, and cognitive engagement. Understanding these psychological factors can help the individual experiencing high stress levels to utilize the stress relief application. Besides, for the application developers, it gives the idea to create compelling digital tools that cater to users' specific needs and preferences, ultimately promoting better stress management and overall well-being.

Assessing the impact of immersive virtual reality technology on the psychological recovery of patients with Parkinson’s disease depression: study protocol of a randomized controlled trial

Background and aimDepression in Parkinson’s disease (DPD) has a high incidence rate among patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). It is a common nonmotor symptom of PD that seriously affects the quality of life of patients. Thus, improving DPD is important for improving the quality of life of patients. Psychotherapy for depression is limited for many reasons, and only a few patients are able to benefit from this therapy. Several studies have demonstrated that relaxation therapy, playing, and exercise therapy are effective treatments for depression. In recent years, virtual reality (VR) has rapidly developed as a form of rehabilitation due to its immersive characteristics and accessibility. It has also been applied in the psychological treatment of phobia and anxiety. However, no relevant research on the treatment of DPD has been conducted using VR. This study aims to assess the effects of immersive VR-assisted training on patients with DPD.MethodsThis single-blind randomized controlled trial will recruit 74 patients with DPD. The patients will then be randomly allocated into two groups. The patients in the VR group (n = 37) will receive VR-assisted training (40 min) three times a week for 8 weeks. The patients in the non-VR training group (n = 37) will receive treatment as usual. The outcome measures will be assessed before intervention, and after 8 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months of the intervention. The primary outcomes will include the Hamilton Depression Scale-24. The secondary outcomes will include the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey questionnaire, neuroinflammation factors (brain-derived neurotrophic factor, interleukin-6, and C-reactive protein), and functional magnetic resonance imaging.DiscussionThe traditional treatment of depression has limited resources and requires a lot of time and energy. It is not suitable for patients with PD having mobility difficulties and residing in remote areas. VR can make up for limitations in traditional treatment methods. An advantage of VR is that it makes patients more invested in active participation. This study may provide an improved method for the clinical treatment of patients with DPD, which is suitable for clinical decision-making and future practice.Trial registrationThe study has been registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2200065843, November 16, 2022.https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=174551{2a and 2b}

Implementasi Terapi Relaksasi Benson untuk Menurunkan Intensitas Nyeri pada Pasien Stemi di Rumah Sakit Tentara TK IV 01.07.01 Pematangsiantar

STEMI is a heart disease that completely blocks the coronary arteries so that oxygen does not enter the heart muscle. The aim of this research is to determine the description of nursing care in the implementation of Benson relaxation therapy to reduce pain intensity in STEMI patients. This research design uses a case study method. The sampling method used is purposive sampling. The samples taken were 2 respondents from STEMI patients. The instruments used were emergency assessment format, Benson relaxation therapy SOP, evaluation sheet, pain observation sheet. The results obtained from this research were found to reduce pain intensity in client I, namely from a pain scale of 7 to 6 and in client II from a pain scale of 6 to 1. Benson relaxation therapy is effective for STEMI sufferers to reduce pain intensity.

Lifestyle modifications and environmental risk factors for glaucoma

Purpose of review To summarize recent evidence about the association between different lifestyle modifications and environmental risk factors and glaucoma. Recent findings Incorporating moderate exercise into the routine of glaucoma patients may help slow the progression of the condition. However, caution should be taken when using swim goggles, and it may be advisable to avoid certain yoga positions and heavy weight-lifting exercises, as they have been linked to intraocular pressure (IOP) spikes and potential risks for glaucoma patients. Various relaxation techniques may lower IOP. The evidence remains inconclusive about the association between vitamins intake and glaucoma. Dietary nitric oxide has been associated with a lower risk of glaucoma. Higher smoking intensity has been linked to faster visual field decline and retinal nerve fiber layer thinning. Additionally, there is currently insufficient evidence to support the use of marijuana in managing glaucoma, with side effects outweighing the proposed benefits. A significant association has been found between air pollutants and ganglion cell layer thinning, as well as a greater burden of glaucoma. Summary Lifestyle and environmental factors are increasingly recognized as significant contributors to glaucoma development and progression. These modifications should be integrated into a comprehensive treatment approach alongside medications or surgical interventions.

Beyond Painkillers: A Meta-Analysis of Non-Pharmacological Approaches for Managing Dysmenorrhea Symptoms

Dysmenorrhea, commonly known as painful menstruation, is a highly prevalent gynecological condition affecting millions of women globally. While pharmacological interventions offer temporary relief, they often come with undesirable side effects. Non-pharmacological approaches present a potentially safer and more sustainable alternative for managing dysmenorrhea symptoms. A comprehensive search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published between 2014 and 2024 that investigated the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions for dysmenorrhea. The primary outcome was pain intensity reduction, while secondary outcomes included quality of life, absenteeism, and medication use. Data were pooled using a random-effects model, and standardized mean differences (SMDs) were calculated. Six RCTs met the inclusion criteria, encompassing a total of 600 participants. The non-pharmacological interventions evaluated included aerobic exercise, yoga, acupuncture, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), heat therapy, and relaxation techniques. The pooled analysis revealed significant reductions in pain intensity across all interventions compared to control groups (SMD = -2.00, 95% CI: -2.39 to -1.61, p < 0.001). Aerobic exercise and yoga demonstrated the largest effect sizes (SMD = -2.5 and -2.5, respectively). Significant improvements were also observed in quality of life, absenteeism, and medication use. Non-pharmacological approaches, particularly aerobic exercise and yoga, are effective in managing dysmenorrhea symptoms. These findings strongly support the integration of non-pharmacological interventions into clinical practice as a first-line or adjunctive treatment option for dysmenorrhea.

54 Efficacy of a quality improvement project in paediatric procedural pain management during needle procedures

Abstract Background In paediatric hospital settings, needle procedures significantly contribute to children’s experiences of pain and distress. A structured approach integrating preparation, comfort positions, distraction, relaxation techniques, and topical anesthetics can enhance children’s ability to cope with procedural discomfort. We developed a quality improvement (QI) initiative aiming to alleviate procedural pain and distress through a staggered implementation approach over a 3-year period. Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the first 2 years of an institutional QI initiative on managing procedural pain and distress in children undergoing needle procedures. The primary objective was to evaluate the use of multimodal strategies to reduce needle-related procedural pain/distress following the QI initiative. The secondary objective was to compare pain scores for needle procedures before and after the QI initiative. Design/Methods This observational study was conducted in a tertiary care university-affiliated paediatric hospital with an ongoing hospital-wide QI initiative aiming to alleviate procedural pain and distress in children undergoing needle procedures. The QI initiative consisted of mandatory sector-by-sector training of healthcare providers (HCP) on procedural pain/distress strategies to increase the use of multimodal pain care. Pain scores were measured during needle procedures (i.e. Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), Faces Pain Scale-R (FPS-R) or the FLACC scales, according to patient age) pre and 3-6 months post implementation of the QI initiative. Scheduled audits were conducted using a standardized questionnaire by a deployment champion nurse during needle procedures to document pain scales and pain/distress strategies used by the HCP during needle procedures in each of the hospital services. Results Throughout the first two implementation years (June 2021-June 2023), 363 audits were conducted on needle procedures for 363 children (Median age 7 yo (0month-18yo□). At this stage, audits took place in 14 different hospital services. The most frequent procedures were IV-line insertions (34%), venous blood draws (27%), and capillary blood sampling (26%). Parental presence and the use of distraction techniques were frequently used (90% and 80% of procedures, respectively). Of the 363 audits, 221 were pre-implementation and 142 post-implementation. Post QI initiative, an increased number of procedures were realized using multimodal strategies (4 or more strategies) to reduce pain/distress (from 60% to 78%). Pain scores were recorded for 203/221 audits pre and 134/142 post with a reduction in severe pain scores (7 or more) from 25% pre to 5% post-implementation. Conclusion The institutional QI initiative demonstrated both an increase in the number of strategies used to prevent pain/distress and a reduction in severe pain scores associated with paediatric needle procedures. This project emphasizes the significance of employing a multifaceted approach to managing procedural pain/distress in children undergoing needle procedures.

Assessment and Management of Depressive Disorder: A Case Report of an Unmarried Adult

This case study examines the psychological and social aspects impacting the mental well-being of a 32-year-old unmarried woman. Based on comprehensive clinical assessment, Client D.A. was diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) using Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5), Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI-2), Rotter Incomplete Sentences Blank College Form (RISB), Draw-a-Person (DAP), clinical interviews, and behavioral observations. A multifaceted treatment plan was developed, combining cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), pharmacotherapy, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques. This study provides insights into her experiences of depression, social isolation, societal expectations, and self-esteem. Over the course of the treatment, Client D.A. demonstrated significant improvement in her depressive symptoms. Her negative thought patterns were effectively restructured through CBT and her interpersonal relationships improved with IPT. Additionally, pharmacotherapy stabilized her mood, while mindfulness techniques helped manage anxiety and stress. This case study highlights the complex interplay of factors influencing mental health and underscores the importance of culturally sensitive, personalized treatment approaches, as evidenced by Client D.A.’s increased social engagement, reduced loneliness, and improved well-being, with regular evaluations confirming sustained progress and the efficacy of the integrated treatment plan in promoting recovery.

A Pilot Controlled Trial of Relaxation Training Combined with a Video Game Reinforcing Emotional Regulation to Improve Anger Management in Children and Adolescents.

Untreated anger and aggression in youth confer heightened risk for subsequent psychosocial problems. However, engaging youth in treatment for anger can be difficult given barriers to accessing care and high rates of attrition. This study examined whether learning relaxation skills and practicing them using a videogame, whose operation was contingent upon keeping heart rate close to baseline levels, could help children learn to manage anger and aggression. Youth ages 7-17 with elevated levels of anger (N = 39) were randomized to receive the active video game condition or a control game that displayed heart rate but did not stop the game if heart rate became elevated. Youth underwent baseline screening, 6 treatment sessions, and follow-up assessments at 2-weeks and 3-months. Compared to the control condition, children in the active condition demonstrated significantly greater improvements in clinician-rated aggression severity (d = 1.48) and youth-rated emotion dysregulation (d = 3.46) at 2-weeks post-treatment. The active group maintained these improvements at 3-month follow-up, but no longer significantly differed from the control group. Intervention effects were nonsignificant for parent-reported emotion dysregulation and aggression. In addition, the intervention group youth, but not control group, experienced increased time with heart rate below baseline over the course of the 6 sessions. Findings suggest a promising brief intervention for reducing aggression and emotion dysregulation in children while they are waiting for longer-term outpatient therapy. Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT03270813.

Comparison of active release technique and post-isometric relaxation in treatment of plantar fasciitis among traffic police wardens: a quasi-experimental study

BackgroundPlantar fasciitis (PF) is a common cause of chronic foot pain that leads to functional limitations in individuals. There has been recent research on plantar fasciitis, but no studies have compared the effects of the active release technique and post-isometric relaxation in patients to determine which manual therapy technique improves foot pain and function.ObjectiveThis study aimed to compare the effectiveness of the active release technique and post-isometric relaxation on proximal foot pain and functional status and to assess muscular tightness among patients with traffic police wards and plantar fasciitis.MethodsA quasi-experimental study (pre-test, post-test) was conducted in the Physiotherapy Department of Police Hospital, Gujranwala, Pakistan, between October 2022 and April 2023. We included 30 consecutively aged 25- to 60-year-old symptomatic police wardens diagnosed with planter fasciitis, who complained of pain on walking and standing for more than 3 months and met the inclusion criteria. They were equally assorted into two groups (n = 15 in each group) using convenient sampling. Group A received an active release exercise technique, group B received a post-isometric relaxation technique, and the participants in both groups received a similar baseline treatment protocol that consisted of calf stretching and stretching of the plantar fascia (5 repetitions and holding for 15 s). In the outcome measures, we included the Foot Function Index to assess the function of the foot and the Visual Analog Scale to examine the pain intensity measured during rest. The participants in both groups performed the selective protocol 3 days per week for 3 weeks, and we calculated the results at baseline and on the third day of the third week. We analyzed the data using SPSS software version 24 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). We compared within-group differences in the VAS score and FFI using paired t tests and analyzed between-group differences in the VAS score and FFI before and after performing the ART and PIR using independent t tests.ResultsThe 8-week intervention therapy revealed a demographic age mean and standard deviation of 36.60 ± 6.11 for group A and 35.60 ± 4.85 for group B. Within-group analysis demonstrated a significant decrease in VAS (pain) score following ART intervention (1.80 ± 0.862, p < 0.01) compared to PIR (6.07 ± 0.884). Between-group analysis indicated a significant reduction in FFI (disability) scores for group A (30.33 ± 3.200, p < 0.03) compared to group B (56.93 ± 4.773). Moreover, ART intervention exhibited significant improvement in VAS scores (p < 0.05), with 95% CI [1.49, 2.11]. The mean difference in FFI scores was substantially greater in the ART group (86.00 to 30.33) compared to the PIR group (p > 0.05), suggesting non-significant differences.ConclusionThe active release exercise intervention is more effective than post-isometric relaxation in improving pain and foot function disability in patients with plantar fasciitis. The present study aimed to help physical therapists choose the most efficient manual therapy exercise intervention to improve functional limitations.

Effectiveness of psychoeducation interventions for pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus: an integrative review

BackgroundGestational diabetes mellitus occurs in approximately 15–17% of pregnant women worldwide and causes high mortality and morbidity for mothers and infants. Pregnant women who are newly diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus experience higher levels of stress and anxiety than pregnant women without this condition. Thus, it is important to identify effective interventions to help pregnant women cope with the additional stress and anxiety associated with pregnancy-related complications.AimThis integrative review aimed to synthesise evidence on the effects of educational interventions for pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus regarding knowledge, self-efficacy, self-care behaviour, anxiety, depression, and birth outcomes.MethodsAn integrative review of articles published between 2009 and 2024, written in English and Arabic. The review followed the Whittemore and Knafl’s 5-stage process framework.ResultsFrom the 922 abstracts identified using search terms, 16 articles were eligible for this review. Psychoeducational interventions were provided for (1) informational support: information about gestational diabetes mellitus, diabetes mellitus, blood glucose monitoring, exercise management, diet management, and stress; (2) motivational support: setting individual goals, enhancing health behaviours, and motivational messages; (3) emotional support: expression of feelings, enforcement of self-management, and sharing of experiences; and (4) relaxation techniques: breathing exercises, meditation, and mindfulness. In this review, only two studies entirely focused on reducing stress and anxiety through cognitive-behavioural stress management training and mindfulness training. The effects of the interventions on self-efficacy, knowledge, depression, anxiety, and birthing outcomes were inconsistent due to variations in intervention designs and duration. However, consistent positive outcomes were found in self-care behaviours.ConclusionThis integrative review found informational and motivational support were frequently used by pregnant women. In contrast, emotional support and relaxation techniques were rarely used. Psychoeducational interventions may enhance self-care behaviours, improve self-efficacy, and reduce stress and depression for women with gestational diabetes mellitus. Nurses and midwives play an essential role in providing holistic care through comprehensive psychoeducational interventions for pregnant women.

Impact of Academic Progress on the Mental Health of Young People in Nigeria: A Case Study of Undergraduate Students in South-Western Nigeria

Background: Education is important in forging a pathway to economic opportunity and social mobility. It is widely regarded as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of personal and social development. Method: This descriptive cross-sectional study employs a quantitative data collection approach. Four hundred individuals were interviewed using semi-structured, interviewer-administered questions through a multi-stage sampling technique. After data analysis with SPSS version 26, a chi-square test statistic was employed to determine whether there was a significant relationship between the categorical variables, with a p-value of less than 0.05. Results: Out of 400 respondents, 211 (52.8%) male and 189 (47.2%) female were questioned. Nearly half of the respondents (49.0%) were between the ages of 19 and 21 years old. According to the survey, most of the respondents (70.0%) asserted that their current academic workload is heavy, while (18.0%) and (9.0%) described their workload as moderate and light, respectively. Additionally, (60.0%) of the respondents rated their overall academic performance as good. However, only (13.0%) acknowledged that academic pressure contributes to stress and anxiety in life and (79.0%) occasionally expressed stress related to academic demands. About (11.8%) and (8.8%) of the respondents reported having been diagnosed with a mental health disorder before and experienced symptoms of depression in the past month respectively. An additional (20.0%) of respondents reported having experienced depression, while (24.5%) and (23.5%) claimed to have experienced anxiety and stress, respectively. Moreover, (11.8%) reported experiencing panic attacks, and (5.3%) mentioned having had suicidal thoughts. More than half of the respondents used to exercise (59.0%) and engaged in hobbies or interests (56.5%) as coping mechanisms for academic stress. Additionally, (45.5%) practiced mindfulness or relaxation techniques, and (25.5%) sought social support to manage their academic stress. About (32.5%) of respondents claimed they were aware of mental health support services available at their institutions, compared to (67.5%) who were unaware of these services. Of those aware, (33.1%) had utilized mental health support services. Additionally, (44.2%) of respondents were satisfied with the mental health support services on campus, while (39.5%) were very satisfied. The study also reveals that there’s no statistically significant association between the age, gender, monthly upkeep of the respondents and utilization of mental health support services. Conclusion: There is a complex connection between academic performance, psychological well-being, and the use of coping strategies and mental health support services among university students. This underscores the importance of addressing students' mental health needs alongside providing academic assistance. Keywords: Mental health, Academic performance, Mental health support services, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Mental health coping mechanisms

Managements for perioperative anxiety in patients with gastrointestinal cancers

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are the most common malignancies, while surgical intervention remains the sole therapeutic approach offering the possibility of a definite cure for cancer. Perioperative anxiety negatively impacts the recovery of GI cancers. Recently, mounting studies have demonstrated that proper nursing interventions may alleviative perioperative anxious illnesses in patients with GI cancers. We conducted a first comprehensive review to summarize all the current evidence on this topic. After a systematically search in the six common databases, eighteen relevant studies were included for further analysis. The present review highlighted that there is a high prevalence of perioperative anxiety in patients with GI cancers (e.g., colorectal cancer, gastric/stomach cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, gallbladder cancer, and esophageal cancer), while specific nursing interventions are the reliable methods to reduce postoperative anxiety. These nursing strategies include, but are not limited to, therapeutic listening intervention, implementing perioperative music, predictive nursing, progressive relaxation exercises, psychological interventions in the nursing care, comprehensive nursing, continuous nursing care, video-based nursing education, multidisciplinary cooperative continuous care, accelerated rehabilitation nursing, TCM nursing, evidence-based early warning nursing, target nursing care, and high-quality nursing. Since several limitations existed in the eligible studies as well as in this review, a well-designed multicenter RCT with large sample size is still warranted for the confirmation of nursing intervention for managing perioperative anxiety in patients with GI cancers. Also, future studies should focus on the long-term effects of relevant interventions, specific patient populations, multidisciplinary approaches, technological innovations, and educational programs.

The Role Of Mindfulness To Reduce Anxiety Facing Muhafadzoh In Female Students Of Islamic Boarding School X

The aim of this research is to describe the role of mindfulness by using relaxation techniques to reduce the level of anxiety facing muhafadzoh in female students at Madrasah Mu'allimin Mu'allimat Islamic Boarding School X. This research uses a quasi-experimental method. The subjects of this research were female students of Madrasah Mu'allimin and Mu'allimat Pondok Pesantren The data collection technique uses a scale results sheet in the form of a questionnaire while data analysis uses non-parametric Mann-Whitney U. Based on the research results, a 2-tailed asymp sig value of 0.00 &lt; 0.05 is obtained, which indicates that the application of Mindfulness has a significant impact on the variable. observed, namely the level of anxiety. These findings consistently support the research hypothesis which suspects that Mindfulness intervention will be effective in reducing anxiety levels in female students at Islamic Boarding School X.

Effectiveness of Contract-relax Vs Post-isometric Relaxation in Hamstring Tightness in Healthy Young Adults

Objective: The objective of the study was to compare the effectiveness of Post-isometric Relaxation Technique VS Contract-Relax Technique to improve hamstring flexibility in healthy young adults. Method: Total 30, male and female participants,15 in each group, i.e. Group A &amp; Group B between the age group 18 to 24 years were selected from RJS Group of Institutes, Kopargaon using random sampling method according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Pre-assessment of active knee extension range of motion (ROM) was done using Active Knee Extension (AKE) test with the universal full- circle goniometer and Reading 1 was noted for each subject. The subjects in Group A were given Post-isometric relaxation, 8 seconds for 12 days and Group B were given Contract-Relax Technique, 17 seconds for 12 days. Reading 2 &amp; Reading 3 were noted on the 6th and 12th day of the treatment session respectively. Results: The results indicate a statistically significant difference between Group A and Group B. The t-value of 5.908 and p-value of less than 0.01 provides significant support for the alternative hypothesis of Hypothesis 1. The Mean values of Group B [4.44] is significantly higher than that for Group A [2.36] which suggests that Contract-Relax technique showed more significant increase in the Active knee extension range of motion than the Post-isometric relaxation after 12 days of treatment protocol. Conclusion: The statistical data results concluded that Contract-relax technique is more effective than Post-isometric relaxation technique in improving the hamstring flexibility in healthy young adults.

IRS assisted anti jamming and beamforming technique

Recently, the emerging intelligent reflecting surfaces (IRS) has been leveraged to establish a smart and controllable wireless environment. This paper addresses the challenge of maximizing spectral efficiency in an IRS-aided downlink multi-user system while facing jammer attacks. The optimization problem focuses on improving the available transmission rate and limiting the impact of malicious jammer signals. The efficiency of the IRS in anti-jamming communications is achieved by determining the optimal phase shifts of the IRS elements and the optimal beamforming at the base station (BS). The optimization problem is non-convex. To tackle this non-convexity, an alternating optimization algorithm is proposed, dividing the main problem into two sub-problems which are solved using the semi-definite relaxation (SDR) and Gaussian randomization techniques. The simulation results confirm the enhanced spectral efficiency achieved by the proposed anti-jamming method in an IRS-assisted system. The optimal adjustment of the phase shifts in the IRS elements has resulted in a significant enhancement of about 25% in spectral efficiency compared to the random IRS phase case.

Effectiveness of Combined Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Progressive Muscle Relaxation in Treating Long-Term COVID-19 Symptoms: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) and additional progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) techniques in patients with long-term COVID-19 symptoms. Methods: We included 61 patients with long COVID-19 symptoms and randomly assigned them to two groups: PR only (group 1 with 30 subjects) and PR with PMR (group 2 with 31 subjects). The PR program consisted of gradual aerobic conditioning, strength training, and breathing exercises. Group 2 received additional 20 min daily sessions of progressive muscle relaxation techniques. Results: Following a 21-day intervention, it was observed that both groups had noteworthy improvements in lung function, exercise capacity, and sleep quality with statistical significance (p &lt; 0.0001). Group 2 showed significant improvements in overall health (as measured by the General Health Questionnaire-12), patient health (as assessed by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9), general anxiety levels (as indicated by the Generalized Anxiety Disorders Scale-7), and sleep quality (as measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), with statistical significance (p &lt; 0.0001), compared to group 1. Moreover, the statistical analysis demonstrated no significant difference in exercise capacity improvement between group 1 and group 2, as indicated by a p-value of 0.1711. Conclusions: The addition of progressive muscle relaxation to pulmonary rehabilitation significantly enhances mental health outcomes, particularly in reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality, for patients with long-term COVID-19 symptoms. These findings suggest that incorporating PMR into PR programs offers a valuable non-pharmacological approach to improving overall patient well-being during long-term COVID-19 recovery.

Effect of Guided Imagery, Sports Activity &amp; Composite Training in the Management of Nomophobia

Nomophobia, the fear of being without a mobile phone, has become a prevalent issue in modern society. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of three intervention approaches in managing nomophobia: guided imagery, sports activity, and composite training. For data Self-made nomophobia questionnaires were applied on 200 college student samples aged 18-24, out of which 80 nomophobic students were selected. Participants were randomly assigned to one of the three intervention groups or a control group. The guided imagery group engaged in relaxation techniques and visualization exercises, while the sports activity group participated in physical activities. The composite training group received a combination of guided imagery and sports activities. The control group did not receive any intervention. Nomophobia levels were assessed using the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q) before and after the interventions. Results showed that all three intervention groups experienced a significant reduction in nomophobia levels compared to the control group. The sports activity group demonstrated the most substantial decrease in nomophobia scores. The findings suggest that a combined approach of guided imagery and sports activity may be the most effective in managing nomophobia among college students aged 18-24. These insights contribute to developing targeted strategies to address the growing concern of nomophobia and its potential negative impacts on the mental health and well-being of young adults.