To Compare The Effect Of Mitchell Relaxation Method And Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction In Improving Physical Stress Among Physiotherapy Students—An Evidence-Based Study
D. Gaur, Reena Kumari, V. Verma
International Journal of Drug Delivery Technology April 11, 2026 DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.7s.105 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Randomized controlled trial Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 73 |
| Population | Physiotherapy students |
| Interventions | Mitchell Relaxation Method Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction |
| Duration | 4-week intervention, 3 sessions per week |
| Measures | Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), General Health Questionnaire (GHQ), Heart Rate (HR) |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Key findings | Both MRM and MBSR significantly reduced stress in physiotherapy students. MBSR led to slightly greater improvement in psychological parameters (GHQ), while MRM showed more improvement in physical parameters (heart rate). |
Abstract
Background: Physiotherapy students often experience high levels of stress due to academic demands, clinical exposure, and performance pressure. Physical stress can impair their concentration, academic performance, and wellbeing. Various stress management techniques have been introduced, including the Mitchell Relaxation Method (MRM) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).
Purpose: To compare the effectiveness of MRM and MBSR in reducing physical stress among physiotherapy students. Methodology: This study was a Randomized Controlled Trial conducted at SBS University. Seventy-three students were randomly assigned into two groups: Group A received MRM, and Group B received MBSR. Pre- and postintervention assessments were done using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), General Health Questionnaire (GHQ), and Heart Rate (HR). The intervention lasted four weeks with 3 sessions per week.
Results: Both groups showed significant reduction in stress levels post-intervention. However, the MBSR group demonstrated slightly greater improvement in psychological parameters (GHQ), while the MRM group showed more improvement in physical parameters (HR).
Conclusion: Both MRM and MBSR are effective in reducing stress among physiotherapy students. MRM may be more suitable for addressing physical stress, while MBSR may be better for psychological stress. Clinical Implication: Incorporating structured relaxation techniques like MRM and MBSR into academic routines may enhance well-being and performance in physiotherapy students.