An Internet-Based Intervention to Alleviate Stress During Social Isolation With Guided Relaxation and Meditation: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
JMIR Research Protocols June 1, 2020 S. Pizzoli, C. Marzorati, D. Mazzoni et al.
A planned internet-based experiment will test whether brief, single-session relaxation practices—guided deep breathing, guided body scan meditation, or natural sounds—can improve relaxation and emotional state while reducing psychomotor activation and COVID-19-related worry during social isolation. Two hundred fifty-two participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups (84 per group) and listen to a 7-minute automated audio clip. Pre- and post-session self-report scales will measure changes in perceived relaxation, psychomotor activation, pandemic worry, and emotional state, along with qualitative reports. The protocol aims to determine whether remote guided practices can help alleviate psychological distress during prolonged isolation.