Peer Reviewed Research: The effect of Qigong exercise on state anxiety levels of inpatients in psychiatric wards - A randomized controlled study
The study investigates the effect of a single session of Qigong exercise on state anxiety levels in psychiatric inpatients. This is a significant contribution to the field as it explores Qigong's immediate psychological benefits in an inpatient psychiatric setting, filling a gap in existing research predominantly focused on outpatients and trait anxiety. The authors define state anxiety as an acute, transient response to stress, making it a vital area of focus for improving mental health in highly stressed populations.
Methodology
The study employed a single-blind, randomized controlled design, including 70 participants divided equally into intervention and control groups. A 40-minute Qigong session was the primary intervention, and anxiety levels were assessed using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-I) before and after the session. The study design is robust, with clear inclusion criteria that excluded patients on anxiolytics or with drug abuse histories to minimize confounding variables.
Results
The results revealed a statistically significant reduction in state anxiety within the intervention group. The mean post-test anxiety score dropped from 38.42 ± 9.7 to 27.2 ± 5.57. In contrast, the control group showed no significant change. These findings highlight Qigong's efficacy in acutely reducing anxiety, aligning with prior research on the psychological benefits of mind-body interventions. However, the short-term nature of the study limits insights into Qigong's long-term effects.
Discussion
The authors contextualize their findings within existing literature, noting that Qigong's emphasis on slow, rhythmic movements and mindful breathing likely underpins its anxiolytic effects. They propose mechanisms such as enhanced diaphragmatic breathing and reduced autonomic arousal. The discussion also highlights the potential of Qigong as a non-pharmacological, complementary therapy for anxiety management in psychiatric settings.
Strengths
Novel Contribution: The study's focus on psychiatric inpatients and state anxiety adds a novel dimension to the growing body of Qigong research.
Rigorous Methodology: The randomized controlled design and the use of validated assessment tools strengthen the validity of the findings.
Clinical Relevance: The practical application of a single Qigong session demonstrates its feasibility for clinical settings.
Limitations
Short Duration: The study examines the effects of only one session, leaving the long-term benefits and optimal frequency of Qigong sessions unexplored.
Sample Demographics: The study's findings may not generalize well beyond the relatively young and predominantly single participant group.
Mechanistic Insights: While the authors hypothesize mechanisms, physiological or neurobiological measures were not included to substantiate these claims.
Conclusion
The study concludes that a single session of Qigong significantly reduces state anxiety among psychiatric inpatients. This finding supports incorporating Qigong into clinical practice as a complementary intervention. The authors suggest future research should explore the long-term effects and mechanisms of Qigong, as well as its application in diverse patient populations.
Implications for Practice
This research emphasizes Qigong's potential as a low-cost, non-invasive intervention for managing anxiety in psychiatric settings. Practitioners may consider integrating Qigong into therapeutic programs, especially for patients who may benefit from non-pharmacological approaches.
Reference
Babaoglu, E., Akkurt Yalcinturk, A., Gures, E. E., Sipahi, A. Z., & Dogan, S. (2024). The effect of Qigong exercise on state anxiety levels of inpatients in psychiatric wards: A randomized controlled study. EXPLORE, 20(6), 103064.
For more information on how practices like Qigong and meditation influence mental and physical health, please head over to www.jadedragon.org.
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