Short-term autonomic nervous system and experiential responses during a labyrinth walk
Cogent Psychology November 26, 2018 Philip James Behman, Joshua A. Rash, Mercedes Bagshawe et al.
Walking a projected light labyrinth for about 10 minutes produced a short-term physiological arousal followed by relaxation in 25 young adults and youth. During the walk, respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) decreased and salivary alpha amylase (sAA) increased, indicating autonomic arousal. After the walk, RSA increased, indicating relaxation, and participants self-reported calmness. The findings suggest labyrinth walking may be a useful tool for managing psychological stress.