Meditation, Mindfulness, and Physiological Recovery: The Role of Adherence and Psychological Well-being in Anxiety Management

Greater adherence to a structured meditation program is linked to larger reductions in anxiety and blood pressure among adults with generalized anxiety disorder. In a randomized trial, participants who attended more than 80% of sessions showed an average drop of 8.5 points on the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale and a 6.2 mmHg decrease in systolic blood pressure. Overall, adherence significantly predicted post-treatment anxiety improvement. The findings suggest that consistent meditation practice aids both psychological and physiological recovery, and that supporting adherence can enhance therapeutic outcomes.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Background: The effectiveness of meditation for anxiety management is well-documented; however, the role of adherence and its impact on physiological recovery remains underexplored. Objective: This study investigates the association between meditation adherence, anxiety reduction, and physiological outcomes (heart rate and blood pressure) in adults diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Methods: Secondary analysis of data from a randomized controlled trial (N = 110) was conducted. Participants in the experimental group (n = 55) completed an 8-week structured meditation programme. Adherence was measured as the percentage of total sessions attended. Anxiety outcomes were assessed using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) and GAD-7. Physiological indicators included heart rate (HR) and systolic blood pressure (SBP). Data were analysed using Pearson’s correlation and linear regression. Results: Meditation adherence demonstrated a significant positive correlation with anxiety reduction (r = 0.28, p < .05) and improvement in well-being (r = 0.32, p < .01). Participants with >80% adherence exhibited greater reductions in HAM-A (?8.5 points) and SBP (?6.2 mmHg). Regression analysis identified adherence as a significant predictor of post-test anxiety improvement (? = ?0.42, p < .01). Conclusion: Consistent meditation practice contributes to both psychological and physiological recovery among individuals with anxiety disorder. Adherence is a key determinant of therapeutic success, highlighting the need for structured support and follow-up in meditation-based intervention.