ROLE OF MINDFULNESS MEDITATION IN REDUCING ANXIETY: A REVIEW
Sujata Sharma, Lasitha Sanal
International Ayurvedic Medical Journal February 17, 2025 DOI: 10.46607/iamj2913022025 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Interventions | Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) |
| Topics | Anxiety Meditation |
| Key findings | Mindfulness meditation reduces anxiety by interrupting rumination, enhancing cognitive flexibility, and improving emotion regulation. |
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.
Comparable studies
Other narrative reviews on anxiety, most cited first.
| Study | Year | Design | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mindfulness-based interventions: an overall review General (healthcare, schools, workplace) | 2021 | Review | |
| A Consensus Statement on the Use of Ketamine in the Treatment of Mood Disorders | 2017 | Review and consensus statement | |
| Sudarshan Kriya Yogic Breathing in the Treatment of Stress, Anxiety, and Depression: Part II—Clinical Applications and Guidelines | 2005 | Review | |
| Mindfulness Meditation and Psychopathology | 2018 | Review | |
| Management of Treatment-Resistant Depression: Challenges and Strategies | 2020 | Review |