Nature-Based Healing Meditation for Grieving Cancer Caregivers
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether a nature-based healing meditation can assist friends and family grieving after losing a loved one to cancer. The goal is to determine if this meditation can ease the intense emotions and mental strain of mourning. Participants will use six meditation recordings designed to promote healing through nature themes. Suitable participants have recently lost someone to cancer and can understand and speak English. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore innovative healing methods in a supportive environment.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that this nature-based healing meditation is safe for grieving cancer caregivers?
Research shows that nature-based activities, such as the healing meditation under study, are usually easy for people to handle. Other studies have found that these activities can complement traditional support for those dealing with loss. They can enhance communication and coping skills without causing major issues or side effects.
This meditation method aims to assist caregivers during their grieving process by offering calming and meaningful experiences in nature. Although specific data on side effects is not available, the gentle and non-invasive nature of meditation suggests it is safe for most people.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the nature-based healing meditation (NBHM) intervention for grieving cancer caregivers because it offers a unique, holistic approach that combines meditation with the restorative power of nature. Unlike traditional therapies that might involve counseling or medication, NBHM utilizes auditory modules designed to immerse caregivers in a calming, natural environment, even if they're indoors. This novel method aims to reduce stress and improve mental health by leveraging the soothing elements of nature, which could provide a more accessible and non-invasive option for emotional support.
What evidence suggests that nature-based healing meditation is effective for grieving cancer caregivers?
Research has shown that spending time in nature can aid those who are grieving. One review found that these activities support traditional methods of coping with loss. Another study on mindfulness, similar to meditation, demonstrated that it can reduce stress and improve the quality of life for caregivers of cancer patients. These findings suggest that the nature-based healing meditation (NBHM) intervention, which participants in this trial will receive, could help caregivers manage their emotions after losing a loved one to cancer.12567
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 who were caregivers for cancer patients and are now grieving after the patient's death. Participants must speak English, have phone access, normal hearing, and be cognitively aware of time, place, and person.Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Participants engage in a 6-week nature-based healing meditation (NBHM) intervention to support bereavement recovery
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for acceptability, feasibility, and effectiveness of the intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Nature-based healing meditation (NBHM) intervention
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Michigan State University
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator