Breathing Techniques + Meditation for COVID-19 Stress Management
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether breathing techniques and meditation can reduce stress and improve lung health in healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants will watch an instructional video and practice breathing exercises and meditation daily for a few minutes over a 28-day period. Healthcare workers at MD Anderson Cancer Center who can read and understand English might be suitable, unless they have conditions like epilepsy or recent brain issues.
As an unphased study, this trial provides a unique opportunity for healthcare workers to explore stress reduction techniques that could enhance their well-being during challenging times.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to check with the trial coordinators for more details.
What prior data suggests that these breathing techniques and meditation are safe for stress management?
Research has shown that breathing techniques and meditation are generally safe and can help reduce stress. One study found that guided breathing exercises significantly lowered anxiety and stress. Another study indicated that breathwork might improve overall mental health. While researchers advise caution, these results are encouraging.
Additionally, meditation has strengthened the body's defense against viral infections, which could be useful during the COVID-19 pandemic. A deep breathing technique also demonstrated potential benefits in managing COVID-19 symptoms.
Overall, breathing exercises and meditation are well-tolerated, with no major safety concerns reported in these studies.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores non-drug approaches, like breathing techniques and meditation, for managing stress related to COVID-19. Unlike medications that can have side effects, these techniques are natural and focus on calming the mind and body. They're quick to practice, requiring only a few minutes each day, and can empower individuals with tools to manage stress independently. This approach could offer a simple, accessible option for stress relief without the need for pharmaceuticals.
What evidence suggests that breathing techniques and meditation might be effective for COVID-19 stress management?
Research shows that breathing exercises can reduce anxiety, stress, and depression. Studies have found these exercises beneficial for many people, including those affected by COVID-19. Regular meditation also relieves stress and improves emotional well-being. Specifically, mindfulness techniques have enhanced mental health in COVID-19 patients. Additionally, meditation has lowered stress and anxiety for healthcare workers. These practices calm the mind and help manage emotions. Participants in this trial will engage in breathing techniques and meditation as part of the supportive care arm, which includes viewing an instructional video and performing these exercises regularly.16789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Santhosshi Narayanan
Principal Investigator
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for health care workers at MD Anderson Cancer Center who can read and understand English. It's not suitable for those with recent abdominal surgery not cleared for exercise, brain aneurysm or tumor, history of brain bleeding within the last year, epilepsy, or if pregnant.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants perform breathing techniques and meditation twice daily for 28 days
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in stress, resilience, and breath holding time
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Breathing Techniques and Meditation
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator