Comparing the Effects of Yoga Nidra and Body Scan Meditation on Pain Outcomes

Background: Chronic pain significantly impacts quality of life. Mind–body interventions (MBIs), such as yoga nidra and body scan, show promise in managing pain. Yoga nidra incorporates intention-setting, visualization, and relaxation, whereas body scan focuses on somatic awareness. While prior literature has applied meditation as a therapeutic intervention in individuals with chronic pain, limited literature has compared the effects of yoga nidra and body scan on pain outcomes.

Aims: The aim of the study was to compare the immediate effects of yoga nidra and body scan on pain intensity, pain anxiety, well-being, and optimism in adults with chronic pain.

Methods: A quasi-experimental study with 23 participants experiencing chronic pain was conducted. Participants underwent either a 45-min yoga nidra ( n = 12) or body scan session ( n = 11). Outcomes were assessed pre-, post-, and 24-h post intervention.

Results: Both interventions significantly reduced pain intensity and pain-related anxiety over time ( P < 0.01), with reductions observed regardless of group. Yoga nidra demonstrated greater improvements in well-being immediately post intervention compared to body scan ( P = 0.01). No significant differences or main effects were found between groups for optimism ( P = 0.60).

Conclusion: Both yoga nidra and body scans reduce pain intensity and pain-related anxiety. Yoga nidra uniquely enhances well-being, supporting its use as a therapeutic MBI for chronic pain.