ROLE OF MINDFULNESS MEDITATION IN REDUCING ANXIETY: A REVIEW

Abstract

Anxiety disorders are common mental health conditions that significantly impact daily life and well-being. While traditional treatments such as pharmacotherapy and cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) are effective, their limitations, including side effects and accessibility, have led to increased interest in complementary approaches like mindfulness meditation. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs), such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), focus on present-moment awareness and nonjudgmental observation of thoughts and emotions. This review examines the psychological, neurobiological, and physiological impacts of mindfulness meditation on anxiety. Findings suggest that mindfulness reduces anxiety by interrupting rumination, enhancing cognitive flexibility, and improving emotion regulation. It also positively influences physiological markers, including cortisol levels and heart rate variability (HRV), suggesting better stress regulation. While mindfulness shows promise, individual motivation and practice consistency influence its effectiveness. Integrating mindfulness with conventional therapies offers a holistic strategy for managing anxiety disorders.