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Abstract Meditation, yoga, guided imagery, and progressive relaxation are promoted as complementary approaches for health and wellbeing in the United States, but their uptake by different sociodemographic groups is unclear. This study assessed the prevalence and 20 year trends in the use of these practices in US adults between 2002–2022. We examined practice use and associations with sociodemographic and health factors in a population-weighted analysis of n = 134,959 participants across 5 cycles of the National Health Interview Survey. The overall use of meditation (18.3%, 60.53 million), yoga (16.8%, 55.78 million) and guided imagery/progressive relaxation (6.7%, 22.22 million) increased significantly from 2002 to 2022. Growth was consistent across most sociodemographic and health strata, however users of ‘Other’ race (comprising 54% Indigenous Americans, Odds Ratios; ORs = 1.28–1.70) and users with moderate (ORs = 1.19–1.29) psychological distress were overrepresented across all practices, and those with severe psychological distress were overrepresented in meditation (OR = 1.33) and guided imagery/progressive relaxation (OR = 1.42). Meditation use has accelerated over time for 65 + year olds (OR = 4.22), people not accessing mental health care (OR = 1.39), and less educated (OR = 4.02) groups, potentially reflecting unmet health needs. Health professionals should consider the extensive use of complementary practices in service and treatment planning and consider their risks and benefits.

Meditation, yoga, guided imagery, and progressive relaxation are promoted as complementary approaches for health and wellbeing in the United States, but their uptake by different sociodemographic groups is unclear. This study assessed the prevalence and 20 year trends in the use of these practices in US adults between 2002–2022. We examined practice use and associations with sociodemographic and health factors in a population-weighted analysis of n = 134,959 participants across 5 cycles of the National Health Interview Survey. The overall use of meditation (18.3%, 60.53 million), yoga (16.8%, 55.78 million) and guided imagery/progressive relaxation (6.7%, 22.22 million) increased significantly from 2002 to 2022. Growth was consistent across most sociodemographic and health strata, however users of 'Other' race (comprising 54% Indigenous Americans, Odds Ratios; ORs = 1.28–1.70) and users with moderate (ORs = 1.19–1.29) psychological distress were overrepresented across all practices, and those with severe psychological distress were overrepresented in meditation (OR = 1.33) and guided imagery/progressive relaxation (OR = 1.42). Meditation use has accelerated over time for 65 + year olds (OR = 4.22), people not accessing mental health care (OR = 1.39), and less educated (OR = 4.02) groups, potentially reflecting unmet health needs. Health professionals should consider the extensive use of complementary practices in service and treatment planning and consider their risks and benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with life-limiting illnesses receiving palliative care have a high symptom burden that can be challenging to manage. Guided imagery (GI), a complementary and integrative therapy in which patients are induced to picture mental images with sensory components, has proven in quasi-experimental studies to be effective as a complementary therapy for symptom management. Objective: To systematically review randomized controlled trials that report evidence of guided imagery for symptom management in patients with life-limiting illnesses. Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline was followed for this review and the search strategy was applied in Medline, CINHAL, and Web of Science. The quality of articles was evaluated using the Cochrane Collaboration's Risk-of-Bias Tool 2 (RoB 2). The results are presented using the Guidance on the Conduct of Narrative Synthesis in Systematic Reviews. Results: A total of 8822 studies were initially identified through the search strategy, but after applying exclusion criteria, 14 randomized controlled trials were included in this review. The quality assessment revealed that four studies had a high risk of bias, nine had some concerns, and one had a low risk of bias. Out of the 14 studies, 6 evaluated oncological diagnosis, while the remaining 8 focused on nononcological diagnoses across 6 different diseases. GI was found to be effective in managing symptoms in 10 out of the 14 studies. Regardless of the disease stage, patients who received guided imagery experienced relief from anxiety, depression, pain, sleep disturbances, and fatigue. Conclusion: GI therapy has shown promising results regarding symptom management in palliative care patients with life-limiting illnesses at different stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Guided imagery is a relaxation technique that uses mental visualization to help individuals relax and focus their minds. This systematic review examines the effect of guided imagery on perioperative anxiety in hospitalized adult patients. The aim is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the existing evidence on the efficacy of guided imagery as an intervention for reducing perioperative anxiety. Methods: A systematic search was conducted on databases including Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO. After screening titles and abstracts, full-text articles were assessed for eligibility. The selected studies were analyzed for their findings related to the effect of guided imagery on perioperative anxiety in adult patients. Results: Nine studies met the inclusion criteria and provided sufficient data for analysis. The majority of the included studies reported a statistically significant reduction in perioperative anxiety following guided imagery interventions. The variations in intervention protocols, such as the content, duration, and frequency of guided imagery, were observed across the studies. Patient satisfaction and acceptance of guided imagery interventions were generally high. Conclusion: The findings of this systematic review suggest that guided imagery is an effective intervention for reducing perioperative anxiety in hospitalized adult patients. Despite the limitations of small sample sizes and variability in measurement tools, the consistent positive results and high patient satisfaction indicate the potential benefits of incorporating guided imagery into perioperative care protocols. More comprehensive research with bigger samples and standardized tools is essential for guiding imagery integration in clinical practice.

Spanish speaking family caregivers of people living with dementia have limited supportive resources in Spanish. There are few validated, culturally acceptable virtual interventions for reducing these caregivers' psychological distress. We investigated the feasibility of a Spanish language adaptation of a virtual Mentalizing Imagery Therapy (MIT) program, which provides guided imagery and mindfulness training to reduce depression, increase mentalizing, and promote well-being. 12 Spanish-speaking family dementia caregivers received a 4-week virtual MIT program. Follow-up was obtained post group and at 4 months post baseline assessment. Feasibility, acceptability, and satisfaction with MIT were assessed. The primary psychological outcome was depressive symptoms; secondary outcomes included caregiver burden, dispositional mindfulness, perceived stress, well-being, interpersonal support, and neurological quality of life. Statistical analysis was performed with mixed linear models. Caregivers were 52 ± 8 (mean ± SD) years of age. 60% had a high school education or less. Participation in weekly group meetings was 100%. Home practice was performed on average 4 ± 1 times per week [range 2-5]. Satisfaction with MIT reached 19 ± 2 of a possible 20 points. Reduction in depression from baseline was observed by week three (p = 0.01) and maintained at 4 month follow-up (p = 0.05). There were significant improvements in mindfulness post-group, and in caregiver burden and well-being at 4 months. MIT was successfully adapted for Latino Spanish language family dementia caregivers within a virtual group environment. MIT is feasible and acceptable and may help reduce depressive symptoms and improve subjective well-being. Larger, randomized controlled trials of MIT should determine durability of effects and validate efficacy in this population.

AbstractMental imagery and relaxation are noninvasive methods and can easily be used by the patient. Accordingly, this study aimed to detect the effect of guided mental imagery (GI) and progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) on sedation in patients undergoing noninvasive mechanical ventilation (NIV). This clinical trial study was carried out in the Shahid Modarres Hospital in 2022 and encompassed 80 patients with COVID-19 undergoing NIV, who were assigned to two intervention and control groups. The sedation survey scale was used to collect the required data. Before the intervention, the two groups completed the questionnaires, and then the relaxation program was presented during four sessions for the intervention group. This study included 80 patients with a mean age (± SD) of 59.59 ± 9.27 years. The Quade nonparametric ANCOVA revealed the significant impact of intervention on the post values of Total score (p-value < 0.001), Tolerance (p-value < 0.001), Calmness (p-value < 0.001), Ventilator synchrony (p-value < 0.001), face relaxation (p-value < 0.001), Consciousness (p-value = 0.009) and Awakeness (p-value = 0.020). The study findings demonstrated the effectiveness of relaxation program in promoting sedation in patients undergoing NIV. Accordingly, intensive care unit (ICU) nurses at our institution are encouraged to use PMR and GI to sedation of patients under NIV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pandemic has changed the model of perinatal support, with a growing interest in e-health. This study aimed to evaluate the opinion and satisfaction of pregnant women who participated in small psycho-educational web classes to investigate participants' subjective benefits and to verify if antenatal psycho-educational care can also be satisfactorily provided on-line. This is a cross-sectional observational study involving 129 pregnant women who completed an ad-hoc on-line tool evaluating the opinion and satisfaction with the class, the GAD-2, and the Whooley Questions. Participants especially appreciated the dialogue, courtesy, helpfulness, and competence of the psychologist (mean 4.72; 0.53), and the usefulness of the course. They appreciated least the logistical aspects of the course. Many women reported as strength being in a group and sharing emotions and doubts. A history of MAR and/or previous psychological disorders were significantly associated with a greater appreciation of relaxation techniques. Small antenatal courses were welcomed by pregnant women and seemed to bring a subjective benefit, even and especially to those with specific characteristics of vulnerability. Knowing the opinion of pregnant women about on-line psychological antenatal care is essential to realize effective and more tailored interventions. The group dimension and techniques aimed at achieving mind-body wellbeing are crucial aspects even in a web setting. Attention should be given to the organizational aspects of the course, in order to increase the attendance and satisfaction of pregnant women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of stress management strategies is helpful to NPs in clinical practice, as they frequently encounter patients or patients' family members who require assistance in managing acute stress. Patients or patients' family members may experience a high level of stress due to health factors such as pain, life-changing diagnoses, treatment options viewed as undesirable, and/or poor medical prognoses. In addition, healthcare visits, hospitalization, diagnostic tests, surgical procedures, and other treatments can cause stress for some patients. NPs should therefore be well informed about stress management strategies to be able to ef ectively educate and provide compassionate care for their patients. This article reviews four strategies designed to assist patients and/or their family members in reducing stress to allow for a more positive experience during a healthcare visit or hospitalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous study has shown that functional imagery training (FIT) to utilise positive mental imagery in response to negative affect could improve alcohol-related outcomes. The current study aimed to replicate whether this negative affect focused FIT would improve alcohol-related outcomes in hazardous student drinkers in South Africa at four-week follow-up. Methods: 50 hazardous student drinkers who reported drinking to cope with negative affect were randomised into two groups. The active group (n = 25) was trained online over two weeks to respond to personalised negative drinking triggers by retrieving a personalised adaptive strategy they might use to mitigate negative affect, whereas the control group (n = 25) received standard risk information about binge drinking. Outcome measures including alcohol consumption, drinking motives, anxiety and depression, self-efficacy and use of protective behavioural strategies were obtained at baseline and four-week follow-up. Results: FIT effects were revealed by three significant group-by-timepoint interactions in a per-protocol analysis: there was a significant decrease in depressive symptoms, drinking to cope and drinking for social reasons from baseline to follow-up in the active group, but not the control group. No effects were observed on alcohol consumption, self-efficacy, protective behaviour strategies and anxiety. Conclusions: Preliminary evidence supports that online negative affect focused FIT can improve depression as well as coping and social drinking motives in South African hazardous student drinkers who drank to cope, at four-week follow-up, suggesting that the principles of this FIT approach might be adapted and incorporated into a clinical intervention to test for efficacy in mitigating substance use problems.

Background & aim: As one of the most influential factors of marital life, sexual satisfaction can significantly lead to peace and compatibility of couples. The present study investigated the effect of Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) on the level of sexual satisfaction in women of reproductive age.Methods: In this parallel cluster-randomized trial which was conducted from Feb. 2019 to Apr. 2020, 72 women of reproductive age (two groups of 36 subjects) who had moderate or undesirable sexual satisfaction were sampled. The guided imagery music was presented for the intervention group for 6 weeks as twice a week. No intervention was performed for the control group. The data collection tool included fertility characteristics and Larson questionnaires, which was completed before, immediately and one month after the intervention. Data were analyzed by SPSS software (version 20) using independent t-test, chi-square, Mann-Whitney and variance analysis with repeated measurements.Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in the sexual satisfaction score before the intervention. The mean sexual satisfaction score in the intervention group had a statistically significant difference between the baseline (91.1±9.1), immediately after intervention (112±4.46) and one month later (102±9.24) (P< 0.001). However, there was no significant difference between the changes in the sexual satisfaction of women in the control group between three times.Conclusion: GIM technique improves women's sexual satisfaction. It is recommended to health care providers to use this behavioral technique to enhance the level of sexual satisfaction in women of reproductive age.

The study determined the effect of guided imagery to the professional quality of life of selected VAW-C Representatives of San Pablo City. An experimental design was used with 30 participants selected through simple random sampling technique. The Professional Quality of Life Scale Version 5 (Stamm, 2009) was used to measure the participants' compassion satisfaction and compassion fatigue as to burnout and secondary traumatic stress. To analyze if there will be significant difference between the pre- and post-evaluation of the professional quality of life (compassion satisfaction and compassion fatigue), t-test was used. The study findings showed that before and after the intervention of guided imagery, the compassion satisfaction and compassion fatigue as to burnout and secondary traumatic stress of the participants were at the average level, though an increase in compassion satisfaction and decrease in burnout and secondary traumatic stress were seen after the intervention. Furthermore, a significant difference was seen between the pre- and post-evaluation level of the compassion satisfaction and compassion fatigue as to burnout. However, no significant difference was seen between the pre- and post-evaluation level of the compassion fatigue as to secondary traumatic stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Given the well-established and irreversible psychological consequences associated with the COVID-19 disease, it becomes imperative to develop interventions tailored to address these effects and comprehensively evaluate their efficacy in promoting the mental well-being of individuals who have successfully recuperated from COVID-19. The current investigation primarily ascertained and juxtaposed the efficacy of guided imagery and Lazarus multimodal therapy in alleviating COVID-19-induced anxiety and enhancing life expectancy among post-COVID-19 patients Methods: The present study employed a semi-experimental design, encompassing the objectives, application, and research methodology. Specifically, a pre-test-post-test design with a control group was utilized, incorporating a three-month follow-up period. The statistical population comprised individuals who had recovered from COVID-19 and were residing in Tehran City, Iran, in 2021. Participants were selected from various government hospitals in Tehran who received treatment for COVID-19. A total of 45 participants were randomly assigned into three groups: the guided imagery group (15 participants), the Lazarus multimodal therapy group (15 participants), and the control group (15 participants), using the lottery method. The experimental groups underwent 10 sessions of 90 minutes each, wherein guided imagery and Lazarus multimodal therapy interventions were respectively administered. The control group did not receive any form of training or intervention. The research instruments employed in this study were the COVID-19 Anxiety Questionnaire (CDAS, 2020) developed by Alipour, Gadami, Alipour, and Abdulzadeh, and Miller's Life Expectancy Questionnaire (MLEQ, 1998). Data were analyzed using covariance analysis in SPSS software, version 26. Inferential analysis was performed with alpha 0.05 Results: The findings of the study revealed that both guided imagery and Lazarus multimodal therapy demonstrated effectiveness in mitigating COVID-19 anxiety (F=11.16, P=0.000) and enhancing life expectancy (F=5.49, P=0.008) among individuals who had recovered from COVID-19 (P<0.05). Furthermore, no significant difference was observed between the effects of these interventions on the aforementioned variables. Conclusion: Based on the research findings, the educational packages developed in this study hold the potential for utilization in reducing COVID-19 anxiety and enhancing life expectancy among individuals amidst the ongoing pandemic outbreak. These packages offer valuable resources for addressing and managing anxiety related to COVID-19, thereby contributing to improved psychological well-being and overall life expectancy during this challenging period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To review and assess the peer‐reviewed literature on the utility of mind‐body therapy (MBT) as an adjunct treatment in the management of otolaryngologic disease. Data Sources: PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane. Review Methods: Randomized control trials (RCTs) of MBTs in the management of otolaryngologic disease from 2002 to 2022 were identified and included according to predefined criteria. Interventions requiring expensive equipment were excluded because the goal of MBT is to be cost‐conscious. All studies were subjected to a two‐stage blinded screening, extraction, and appraisal process. The outcomes of the intervention and control groups were compared. Conclusion: RCTs of MBTs, including breathing exercises (4), aromatherapy (2), biofeedback (2), meditation, (2), and yoga (2), have been studied in several otolaryngologic conditions, including septoplasty/rhinoplasty (3), head and neck cancer (2), facial palsy (2), and tinnitus (2). Most studies were of moderate risk of bias on appraisal, and each MBT studied was found to significantly reduce subjective and objective distress associated with the otolaryngologic condition in question. Implications for Practice: Despite a paucity of strong evidence supporting the universal use of MBTs, our review suggests that MBTs are cost‐effective and easily deployable complementary tools in the management of otolaryngologic disease. Future large, methodologically rigorous RCTs are needed to address the limitations of the included studies, such as improper blinding and inappropriate statistical analysis. As MBTs are studied further, a case for their current use can be made because of their low cost and minimal risk to patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with anxiety disorder were showing severity of anxiety symptoms as well as poor quality of life. Guided imagery (GI) provides immediate relaxation, and improves the severity of anxiety symptoms and the quality of life of patients with anxiety disorder. Anxiety is a basic emotion that is required as a motivation for everyday work of life. Anxiety presents a complex cognitive, affective, physiological, and behavioral response that is related to future harm (real or perceived). Aim: To study the efficacy of GI intervention on patients with anxiety disorder and their quality of life. Materials and Methods: This longitudinal, interventional study was done in a state institute of mental health, psychiatric unit on 20 patients (outpatients) with anxiety disorder, diagnosed according to diagnostic criteria of research ICD-10 DCR. Patients were assessed using a sociodemographic and clinical data sheet, Hamilton anxiety scale, and World Health Organization QOL instrument, short-form (WHOQOL-BREF), Hindi version. Results: Patients with anxiety disorder in the experimental group improved as compared with the control group significantly. The mean QOL‑BREF score was also improved after intervention in the intervention group. Conclusion: GI intervention helps reduce the severity of anxiety symptoms and improve the quality of life in patients with anxiety disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Family caregivers of persons living with dementia often experience increased depression and suicidal ideation (SI). However, the feasibility and impact of therapies on caregiver SI has remained largely unexplored. Mentalizing imagery therapy (MIT) helps reduce psychological symptoms through mindfulness and guided imagery. This pilot study examined the feasibility of participation by caregivers with SI in a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of MIT versus a psychosocial support group (SG), and the respective impact of group on SI, depression, and secondary outcomes. Methods: A secondary analysis of data from an RCT of 4-week MIT or SG for caregivers (n = 46) was performed, identifying SI (n = 23) and non-SI (n = 23) cohorts. Group attendance and home practice were compared between cohorts. In the SI cohort (total n = 23, MIT n = 11, SG n = 12), group differences in SI, depression, and secondary outcomes were evaluated post-group and at 4-month follow-up. Results: Attendance in both groups and home practice in MIT were similar between SI and non-SI cohorts. In the SI cohort, MIT evinced greater improvements relative to SG in SI (p=.02) and depression (p=.02) post-group, and other secondary outcomes at follow-up. Limitations: Limitations include small sample size and single-item assessments of SI from validated depression rating scales. Conclusions: Participation in an RCT was feasible for caregivers with SI. MIT resulted in important benefits for SI and depression, while SG showed no acute SI benefit. The role of MIT in improving SI should be confirmed with adequately powered trials, as effective therapies to address caregiver SI are critical.

Nature experiences benefit human wellbeing by, for example, increasing subjective restoration and positive affect while reducing negative affect. However, natural environments are threatened by several crises, including pollution. In three preregistered studies, one correlational and two experimental, we investigated the relationship between (plastic) litter and restoration after a walk. In Study 1, participants did a self-selected restorative walk and afterwards reported observed litter. In two experimental studies, we manipulated the presence of plastic waste, biowaste (which served as an active control condition with human-sourced but degradable litter), and no waste in a virtual (i.e., video; Study 2) and an imagined (Study 3) forest walk. In all studies, we assessed subjective restoration, current affect and connectedness to nature, attractiveness and preference of scenery, as well as plastic-related problem awareness, intentions, and policy support. Results showed that litter, especially from plastic, is associated with harmful changes in subjective restoration, affect, and the perception of the scenery. Connectedness to nature, as well as plastic-related problem awareness, intentions, and policy support were not affected by the presence of plastic. Thus, plastic pollution influences human wellbeing negatively, but did not affect factors important to reduce consumption. Therefore, more research on tackling the plastic crisis is needed.

Objectives Sleep disorders are among the most common problems in the elderly. Guided imagery is a non-pharmacological treatment that can be effective in treating these problems and improving the health of the elderly. This study aims to determine the effect of guided imagery therapy on sleep quality and general health of older adults suffering from sleep disorders. Methods & Materials This is an interventional study on 70 older adults aged >60 years referred to a health center in Ardabil, Iran in 2021. They were selected using a convenience sampling method and were randomly allocated to the intervention (n=35) and control (n=35) groups after obtaining informed consent. The Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) and Goldberg’s general health questionnaire (GHQ) were used before and after the intervention for data collection. The control group received the routine care, while the intervention group received the guided imagery therapy as well by listening to an audio file. Data analysis was done in SPSS software, version 22. Results There was no significant difference in the mean score of PSQI and GHQ between the two groups before the intervention (P>0.05). However, a significant difference was observed in sleep quality (P≤0.001) and general health (except for severe depression and social dysfunction domains) after the intervention (P≤0.05). Conclusion Guided imagery is efficient in improving sleep quality and general health of the elderly with sleep disorders and can be used as a non-pharmacological nursing intervention.

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Anxiety has been defined as a “vague, unpleasant feeling accompanied by a premonition that something undesirable is about to happen”. Dental anxiety is driven by a strong negative or unpleasant emotion towards a dental office or dental procedures. Children with a high level of dental anxiety are more resistant to treatment, and due to this avoidance in dental care can lead to needing more dental treatments. The quality of a treatment being carried out, as well as what materials that are to be used, is directly influenced by a child’s level of cooperation and ability to follow instructions. Behaviour management techniques play a major role during all paediatric treatment procedures, and it is the clinician who is responsible to properly and safely guide the child’s behaviour. Guided Imagery is a visual and sensory-based complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) technique. In hypnotherapy which is a type of mind-body intervention; increased suggestibility is used in the treatment of a medical or psychological disease or condition. Therefore, there is a need of a newer modality based on guided imagery and hypnotherapy to be used in as a whole or in tandem with other conventional behaviour management techniques. The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare anxiety levels after using Guided Imagery for relaxation and modified Guided Imagery-Hypnotherapy techniques in 6-14 year-old children undergoing local anesthesia administration.

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential impact of guided imagery (GI) on attentional control and cognitive performance and to explore the relationship between guided imagery, stress reduction, alpha brainwave activity, and attentional control using common cognitive performance tests. Executive function was assessed through the use of attentional control tests, including the anti-saccade, Stroop, and Go/No-go tasks. Participants underwent a guided imagery session while their brainwave activity was measured, followed by attentional control tests. The study's outcomes provide fresh insights into the influence of guided imagery on brain wave activity, particularly in terms of attentional control. The findings suggest that guided imagery has the potential to enhance attentional control by augmenting the alpha power and reducing stress levels. Given the limited existing research on the specific impact of guided imagery on attention control, the study's findings carry notable significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This pilot randomised controlled study (RCT) aimed to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a progressive muscle relaxation with guided imagery intervention (experimental group [EG]) compared to a neutral guided imagery placebo (active control group [ACG]) and standard care to diabetic foot ulcer [DFU] treatment (passive control group [PCG]), to decide on the need for a definitive RCT. Diabetic foot patients with one or two chronic DFU and significant levels of stress/anxiety/depression were recruited and assessed during a period of 6 months, at three moments. Primary outcomes: feasibility rates and satisfaction with relaxation sessions. Secondary outcomes: DFU healing score, DFU‐related quality of life (DFUQoL), physical and mental HRQoL, stress and emotional distress, DFU representations, arterial blood pressure, and heart rate. A total of 146 patients completed the baseline (T0) assessment with 54 participants presenting significant distress being randomised into three groups. Patients were assessed 2 months post‐intervention (T1) and 4 months after T1 (T2). Feasibility rates showed reduced values on eligibility, recruitment and inclusion in the study, although with an acceptable rate of refusal lower than 10%. On average, participants reported being satisfied with relaxation sessions and recommended them to other patients. Differences between groups showed that, at T1, PCG participants reported higher levels of stress than those from EG and ACG. Within‐group differences showed improvements in stress, distress, DFUQoL and DFU extent over time only in EG and ACG. Only EG showed significant changes in DFU representations at T1. The results suggest that relaxation may be a promising coping strategy to deal with DFU distress and an important adjuvant therapy for DFU healing, supporting the implementation of a definitive RCT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a recent article, Messell and colleagues provide a curated list, the "Copenhagen Music Program for Psilocybin". We test their music program with an experienced Indigenous therapist/psychonaut on a 3.5 gram psilocybin journey. Based on comments provided by the Indigenous therapist, we find the program contains musical choices that evoke specific colonial and religious contexts. We also find the program psychologically and emotionally coercive, meaning it is intended to contain the experience by forcing the individual on a specific experiential pathway. We conclude the program is not suitable for Indigenous travelers and suggest that curation of a wider variety of playlists, and music more in line with traditional shamanic practices, might be a better approach to psychedelic curation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of guided imagery on postoperative pain and comfort in geriatric orthopedics patients. Methods: This study was carried out with a randomized‐controlled true experimental design. The population of the study included geriatric patients receiving treatment at the orthopedics and traumatology inpatient clinic of a university hospital. Based on random selection, the sample consisted of total of 102 patients, including 40 patients in the experimental group and 40 in the control group. The data were collected using a Personal Information Form, the Visual Analog Scale, and the General Comfort Questionnaire. Results: After the guided imagery intervention, the pain levels of the experimental group significantly decreased compared to their baseline pain levels (t = 4.002, P = 0.00). Their perceived comfort was also significantly improved (t = −5.428, P = 0.00). Although the perceived comfort of the control group decreased, this decrease was not statistically significant (t = 0.698, P = 0.489). Conclusion: It is recommended that guided imagery, which is an inexpensive and accessible method, be integrated into the nursing care process to reduce the pain and increase the comfort of geriatric orthopedics patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with anxiety disorder were showing severity of anxiety symptoms as well as poor quality of life. Guided imagery (GI) provides immediate relaxation, and improves the severity of anxiety symptoms and the quality of life of patients with anxiety disorder. Anxiety is a basic emotion that is required as a motivation for everyday work of life. Anxiety presents a complex cognitive, affective, physiological, and behavioral response that is related to future harm (real or perceived). Aim: To study the efficacy of GI intervention on patients with anxiety disorder and their quality of life. Materials and Methods: This longitudinal, interventional study was done in a state institute of mental health, psychiatric unit on 20 patients (outpatients) with anxiety disorder, diagnosed according to diagnostic criteria of research ICD-10 DCR. Patients were assessed using a sociodemographic and clinical data sheet, Hamilton anxiety scale, and World Health Organization QOL instrument, short-form (WHOQOL-BREF), Hindi version. Results: Patients with anxiety disorder in the experimental group improved as compared with the control group significantly. The mean QOL-BREF score was also improved after intervention in the intervention group. Conclusion: GI intervention helps reduce the severity of anxiety symptoms and improve the quality of life in patients with anxiety disorder.

Background. Premature birth, in addition to causing health problems in infants, increases stress in the mother and reduces attachment between mother and baby. Therefore, the present study was conducted to determine the effect of guided visualization on stress and attachment of mothers of preterm infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Methods. This quasi-experimental study was performed on 35 mothers with premature infants admitted to the NICU of Mahdieh Hospital of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Mothers were selected by available sampling method and randomly assigned into intervention and control groups. For mothers in the intervention group, the intervention was performed from the first to the fifth day of birth through training and sending guided imagery files. On the day of admission and discharge, the parental stress questionnaire and the postpartum attachment questionnaire were completed by the mother. SPSS software (version 20) was used to analyze the data. Results. The mean total score of maternal attachment on the fifth day of the intervention was significantly higher in the intervention group (P

Imagery is a popular technique for enhancing learning, performance, and rehabilitation in sport, but mixed evidence exists to its effectiveness. There have been wide variations in the methods used to deliver imagery interventions and the level of detail reported, making it difficult to draw comparisons across studies. Moreover, there have been few efforts to date to replicate the findings of previous intervention studies. The aim of this paper is to articulate the need for standardized reporting of imagery interventions, which can be achieved through application of the Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR; Hoffmann et al., 2014). The TIDieR is a 12-item checklist to provide fuller, more accurate and standardized reporting so that these future imagery interventions can be more effectively delivered in practice or replicated in research. We use the TIDieR to describe a personalized guided imagery intervention for improving student-athletes’ regulatory responses to competitive anxiety. Overall, this paper offers practical and evidence-based guidance for researchers designing imagery interventions and recommendations to enable journal editors and reviewers to make easier judgements about rigor. It may also serve as a pedagogical resource for students and trainee sport psychologists undertaking applied research as part of their training.

Abstract Background Cancers of the head and neck region are associated with high symptom burden and elevated levels of psychological distress. Radiotherapy (RT) is a common treatment for patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) that is associated with psychological distress related to the immobilizing nature of the treatment, frequency of treatment delivery, and side effects. Guided imagery is a relaxation technique that is beneficial in reducing psychological distress in patients with other cancer diagnoses but has not been studied in this patient population. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a brief guided imagery intervention (guided imagery for treatment, GIFT) to reduce RT-related anxiety and depression in patients with HNC relative to treatment as usual (TAU). Methods Patients with HNC planning to receive RT will be recruited to participate in a randomized controlled trial evaluating a brief, two-session guided imagery intervention (GIFT) relative to TAU alone. Primary aims include acceptability and feasibility evaluated through quantitative and qualitative methods. Measures of anxiety and depression, symptom burden, health-related quality of life, and anxiolytic medication use will be collected at baseline, during treatment, and at 1-month follow-up. Discussion There are no published interventions of guided imagery for anxiety and depression in patients with HNC despite its efficacy in other populations of patients with cancer. This proposed project evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of an intervention that has the potential to reduce psychological distress in a vulnerable population. Additionally, we will preliminarily examine the impact of behavioral intervention on psychological distress and the use of anxiolytic medication, a novel area of study. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03662698 ; registered on 9/6/2018.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused everything from daily hassles, relationship issues, and work pressures to health concerns and debilitating phobias. Relaxation techniques are one example of the many methods used to address stress, and they have been investigated for decades. In this study, we aimed to check whether there are differences in the brain cortical activity of participants during relaxation or mental workload tasks, as observed using dense array electroencephalography, and whether these differences can be modeled and then classified using a machine learning classifier. In this study, guided imagery as a relaxation technique was used in a randomized trial design. Two groups of thirty randomly selected participants underwent a guided imagery session; other randomly selected participants performed a mental task. Participants were recruited among male computer science students. During the guided imagery session, the electroencephalographic activity of each student's brain was recorded using a dense array amplifier. This activity was compared with that of a group of another 30 computer science students who performed a mental task. Power activity maps were generated for each participant, and examples are presented and discussed to some extent. These types of maps cannot be easily interpreted by therapists due to their complexity and the fact that they vary over time. However, the recorded signal can be classified using general linear models. The classification results as well as a discussion of prospective applications are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a recent article, Messell and colleagues provide a curated list, the “Copenhagen Music Program for Psilocybin”. We test their music program with an experienced Indigenous therapist/psychonaut on a 3.5 gram psilocybin journey. Based on comments provided by the Indigenous therapist, we find the program contains musical choices that evoke specific colonial and religious contexts. We also find the program psychologically and emotionally coercive, meaning it is intended to contain the experience by forcing the individual on a specific experiential pathway. We conclude the program is not suitable for Indigenous travelers and suggest that curation of a wider variety of playlists, and music more in line with traditional shamanic practices, might be a better approach to psychedelic curation.

Background & Aim: Tonsillectomy is one of the most common pediatric surgeries. Preoperative anxiety in children is one of the concerns of caregivers, and its management is an important part of nursing care. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of guided imagery on anxiety in children candidate for tonsillectomy. Methods & Materials: In this clinical trial, 70 children aged 7 to 12 years, candidates for tonsillectomy in the ENT ward of Amirkabir hospital in Arak in 2021 were divided into experimental or control groups. A demographic information form and the face anxiety scale were used to collect the data. In the control group, anxiety was assessed one hour before and 15 minutes before the surgery. In the experimental group, one hour before the operation and after completing the questionnaire, the child was asked to listen to an audio file with the hands-free for 15 minutes and visualize it in his mind. Then, the anxiety scale was completed again. Results: The mean score of anxiety before the intervention was 4.31±0.79 in the experimental group and 4.06±0.87 in the control group, which had no statistically significant difference. The mean score of anxiety after the intervention was 3.83±0.89 in the experimental group and 4.89 ± 0.90 in the control group, which showed the mean score of anxiety of children after the intervention had a statistically significant difference between the two groups (P

This article explores applications of the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) with individuals who use wheelchairs. The study was conducted in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo with participants from indigenous communities. Presented here are case studies of two female adults diagnosed with cerebral palsy and one male adult with traumatic spinal cord injury. The case studies illustrate how each of them benefitted from a series of individual GIM sessions. All three participants are receiving long term care in a residential home. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present research aims at identifying the effectiveness of the strategy of Guided Imagery supported by expressive processing of educational images in teaching literary texts to developing Literary Appreciation Skill and emotional intelligence among first-year preparatory pupils. The research group consisted of two groups, experimental and the other control, The number of each of them was (30) pupil. Preparing two tests in Literary Appreciation skills and emotional intelligence, and after applying the research experiment, the results of the research resulted in: There are significant statistically differences at a level of 0.01 between the averages of the control and experimental groups' degree in the literary Appreciation skills' post-test in favor of the experimental group. Also, there are significant statistically differences. at the level of 0.01 between the averages of the control and experimental groups' degree in the emotional intelligence skills' post-test in favor of the experimental group. This indicates the effectiveness of the Guided Imagery strategy supported by expressive processing of educational images in teaching literary texts on developing literary Appreciation skills and emotional intelligence among the pupils of the experimental group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Premature birth, in addition to causing health problems in infants, increases stress in the mother and reduces attachment between mother and baby. Therefore, the present study was conducted to determine the effect of guided visualization on stress and attachment of mothers of preterm infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Methods. This quasi-experimental study was performed on 35 mothers with premature infants admitted to the NICU of Mahdieh Hospital of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Mothers were selected by available sampling method and randomly assigned into intervention and control groups. For mothers in the intervention group, the intervention was performed from the first to the fifth day of birth through training and sending guided imagery files. On the day of admission and discharge, the parental stress questionnaire and the postpartum attachment questionnaire were completed by the mother. SPSS software (version 20) was used to analyze the data. Results. The mean total score of maternal attachment on the fifth day of the intervention was significantly higher in the intervention group (P<0.001). Also, the mean total score of mothers' attachment status on the day of discharge was significantly higher in the intervention group (P<0.001). Conclusion. Implementation of guided visualization program reduced stress in mothers with premature infants admitted to the NICU, and consequently increased the level of attachment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kanker Serviks merupakan jenis kanker yang menyerang pada organ leher rahim, kanker rahim banyak di derita pada wanita berusia diatas 40-50 tahun keatas. Keluhan utama pada kanker serviks adalah nyeri sehingga perlu dilakukan upaya penatalaksanaan baik farmakologi maupun non farmakologi. Salah satu tindakan non farmakologi untuk mengatasi nyeri pada kanker serviks adalah kombinasi teknik relaksasi guided imagery dengan aromaterapi lavender. Studi kasus ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui penurunan nyeri pada pasien kanker serviks setelah dilakukan kombinasi teknik relaksasi guided imagery dengan aromaterapi. Studi kasus ini menggunakan metode deskriptif dengan pendekatan proses asuhan keperawatan terhadap 2 pasien kanker serviks yang mengalami nyeri. Sebelum dilakukan terapi, pasien telah mendapatkan penjelasaan dan informed consent. Hasil studi kasus ini menunjukkan bahwa pasien mengalami penurunan skala nyeri dengan rata-rata 4 skor (pada kasus 1) dan rata-rata 2,3 score (pada kasus 2) setelah dilakukan terapi relaksasi guided imagery dengan aromaterapi lavender. Terapi relaksasi guided imagery dengan aroma terapi lavender mampu menurunkan skala nyeri pasien kanker Serviks.

Abstract Background and objectives The present study aimed to assess the effectiveness of guided imagery on fatigue, stigma, and mood in patients with multiple sclerosis. Methods This clinical trial is a double-blind study that was conducted on 60 patients with multiple sclerosis referred to the largest center for special diseases in the southeast of Iran in 2020. The convenience sampling method was used to select the participants who were later divided into two groups of intervention (n = 30) and control (n = 30) using block randomization method. The intervention group listened to the guided imagery audio file at home for 25 min. The control group did not receive any intervention. Data were collected by demographic information questionnaires, Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Reece Stigma Scale for Multiple Sclerosis (RSS-MS), and the Profile of Mood States (POMS) before and one month after the intervention. Results According to the results, there was no significant difference between the two groups before the intervention in terms of the score of fatigue (P

Background: The elderly are individuals aged 60 years and over who experience physical, mental, psychosocial changes. One of the thysical changes in the cardiovaskular system where the heart valves thicken and become stiff so that the aortic wall decreases. The heartꞌs ability to pump blood decreases resulting in loss of elasticity of blood vessels which can cause blood pressure which is at risk for several degenerative disease including hypertension. Hypertension is a condition in which a person experiences an increase in blood pressure above normal. One of the non-farmakological treatments is guided imagery relaxation theraphy, guided imagery relaxation theraphy is a techique that uses a personꞌs imagination by imagining good or happy things, fun and calming. Research Objectives: The aim in this study was to analyze the effect of guided imagery relaxation theraphy on blood pressure in the elderly with hypertension. Research Methods: This study uses a literature review by analyzing articels related to the research. Data were obtained from electronic databases, namely Goggle Scholar, Pubmed, Proques, with the keywords elderly, guided imagery, and hypertension published in 2015-2020. Results: Based on the results of the analysis of 10 research articles reviewed, it was found that area there was a significant effect of guided imagey relaxation theraphy on changes in blood pressure in the elderly with hypertension, because by stimulating the brain through imagination, a response in the nervouse system can arise which makes the body relax. It is felt by the body so that endorphins are released into the blood vessels so that the blood vessels experience vasodilation and the blood supply is fulfilled which can cause a decrease in blood pressure and heart rate. Conclussion: Guided imagery relaxation theraphy can reduce blood pressure in elderly patients with hypertension.

Introduction: Guided imagery (GI) is a mind–body intervention, in which individuals generate mental images of pleasant objects or events in their minds. These mental images produce positivity and alter the perception of headaches and other pain disorders. A review of literature suggests that GI is an effective psychological treatment for tension-type headache (TTH) and state-trait anxiety. Hence, the present study aimed to assess the efficacy of GI on TTH associated with state-trait anxiety and to compare its efficacy with treatment as usual (TAU). Materials and Methods: Forty treatment-naïve patients diagnosed with TTH were selected from the psychiatry outpatient department through purposive sampling method. The Henry Ford Hospital Headache Disability Inventory and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Adults were administered on all the patients for baseline data. Experimental group (n = 20) were given eight sessions of GI along with TAU for 2 months, whereas waitlist group (n = 20) were given only TAU. Results: A Significant positive association was obtained between emotional and functional disability of headache and state-trait anxiety at baseline. Postassessment findings demonstrated a significant reduction in severity and frequency of TTH, emotional and functional disability, and state-trait anxiety in the experimental group receiving GI as compared to the waitlist group. Conclusion: Patients living with TTH more commonly suffer from state-trait anxiety. Those patients who were given GI along with TAU for 2 months improved on severity and frequency of TTH, emotional and functional disability of TTH, and state-trait anxiety more effectively than those patients receiving only TAU. Consequently, it can be said that GI is an effective treatment for TTH and state-trait anxiety as compared to TAU.

Multiple sclerosis is a disabling and progressive neurological disease that has significant negative effects on health-related quality of life. This exploratory efficacy study examined the effects of Healing Light Guided Imagery (HLGI), a novel variant of guided imagery, compared with a wait-list control in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Changes in the Beck Depression Inventory, Fatigue Severity Scale, and Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life instrument (physical and mental components) were compared between groups. Patients who completed HLGI (N = 9) showed significant reductions in depressed mood ( P < .05) and fatigue ( P < .01) and showed significant gains in physical ( P = .01) and mental ( P < .01) quality of life compared with journaling (N = 8). Our results suggest that HLGI can improve self-reported physical and mental well-being in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Further research is needed to study the effectiveness of this therapy, as well as its mind-body mechanisms of action.

Patient Centered Prognosis (PtCP): This brief report describes a simple guided visualization that clinicians can utilize to assist patients and families to safely explore prognosis for a terminal diagnosis. It can act as an effective adjunct to the medical prognosis; it allows patients and/or families to develop their own sense of timing, decreases anxiety, and can serve as an effective guide for planning details at end of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cancers of the head and neck region are associated with high symptom burden and elevated levels of psychological distress. Radiotherapy (RT) is a common treatment for patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) that is associated with psychological distress related to the immobilizing nature of the treatment, frequency of treatment delivery, and side effects. Guided imagery is a relaxation technique that is beneficial in reducing psychological distress in patients with other cancer diagnoses but has not been studied in this patient population. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a brief guided imagery intervention (guided imagery for treatment, GIFT) to reduce RT-related anxiety and depression in patients with HNC relative to treatment as usual (TAU). Methods: Patients with HNC planning to receive RT will be recruited to participate in a randomized controlled trial evaluating a brief, two-session guided imagery intervention (GIFT) relative to TAU alone. Primary aims include acceptability and feasibility evaluated through quantitative and qualitative methods. Measures of anxiety and depression, symptom burden, health-related quality of life, and anxiolytic medication use will be collected at baseline, during treatment, and at 1-month follow-up. Discussion: There are no published interventions of guided imagery for anxiety and depression in patients with HNC despite its efficacy in other populations of patients with cancer. This proposed project evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of an intervention that has the potential to reduce psychological distress in a vulnerable population. Additionally, we will preliminarily examine the impact of behavioral intervention on psychological distress and the use of anxiolytic medication, a novel area of study. Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03662698; registered on 9/6/2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pain and anxiety caused by burn dressing change are one of the major issues in burn patients. In this regard, guided imagery as a complementary method can be effective in reducing the levels of anxiety and pain. This method is the process of creating mental images and using sensory features through the individual's imagination and memory that facilitate the achievement of desired therapeutic outcomes. Therefore, this study was aimed at determining the effect of guided imagery on the quality and severity of pain and pain-related anxiety associated with dressing change in burn patients. This is a single-blinded randomized controlled trial in which a total of 70 burn patients were enrolled using convenience sampling and randomly allocated to two groups of intervention and control (n = 35 in each group). Each patient in the intervention group received four sessions of guided imagery during four consecutive days (one session a day) using a headphone. Then in both groups, the level of pain was assessed after the dressing change and the level of pain-related anxiety was assessed before the dressing change (between the end of the intervention and the initiation of dressing change). Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), the short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ), and the Burn Specific Pain Anxiety Scale (BSPAS). Data were first entered into the IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 25.0 and then analyzed using repeated-measures Analysis of Variance. The repeated measures ANOVA indicated the mean score of the quality and severity of pain and pain-related anxiety differed statistically and significantly after the intervention (during the four sessions) compared to before it (baseline) in the intervention group (p < 0.001). The independent-samples t-test indicated a statistically significant difference in the mean scores of the quality and severity of pain and pain-related anxiety between the two groups (p < 0.001). This difference was found to be significant from the second session onwards (p < 0.001). Medical staff, including physicians, nurses and other healthcare professionals, are responsible for developing strategies to manage complications of burn injuries. Considering the effectiveness of guided imagery in reducing anxiety and pain in burn patients, it is recommended to use this method of complementary medicine to manage stress, anxiety, and pain in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]