An 8‐Week Relaxation Program Consisting of Progressive Muscle Relaxation and Mindfulness Meditation to Reduce Stress and Attenuate Stress‐Driven Eating. Issue 1 (1st October 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Masih, Tasmiah; Dimmock, James A.; Epel, Elissa; Guelfi, Kym J.
• Is Part Of: Applied psychology. Volume 12:Issue 1(2020:Mar.)
• Page Start: 188
• Page End: 211
• Publication Date: 2019-10-01
• Subjects: mindful -- relaxation -- stress‐eating -- stress management -- worksite‐based; Psychology, Applied -- Periodicals; Well-being -- Periodicals; Clinical health psychology -- Periodicals; Health -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Psychology, Applied -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; Psychologie appliquée -- Périodiques; Bien-être -- Périodiques; 616.0019
• DOI: 10.1111/aphw.12179
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1758-0846

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Stress is often associated with the intake of energy‐dense palatable foods. This trial examined the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of an 8‐week worksite‐based relaxation intervention to address psychological stress and unhealthy food intake. Methods: Thirty‐six men and women were exposed to an acute stressor, while physiological and psychological responses were assessed, prior to being offered a test meal. Participants were then randomised to a relaxation intervention (RELAX; face‐to‐face classes and daily home practice of progressive muscle relaxation and mindfulness meditation), or a wait‐list control (CON). All measures were repeated after the intervention. Results: Intervention compliance was high (80% ± 19% face‐to‐face; 79% ± 18% home practice), and each session acutely reduced perceived stress ( p < .001) and increased relaxation ( p < .001). After 8 weeks, trait mindfulness was increased ( p = .025), along with reduced tension ( p = .013) and increased relaxation ( p < .05) post‐acute stressor in the intervention group. There was no effect of the intervention on palatable eating, cravings, or energy intake at a laboratory test meal, with small associated effect sizes ( d = 0.01–0.3). Conclusions: The program studied here is feasible and sessions transiently reduce perceived stress and improve mindfulness; however, the program may not influence the physiological response to an acute stressor or appetite and eating variables.