The Effect of Zikr Meditation on Anxiety, Stress Levels and Blood Pressure in Hypertensive Patients
Erna Yovi Kurniawati, Dian Nirmala Sari
Journal of Rural Community Nursing Practice September 26, 2024 DOI: 10.58545/jrcnp.v2i2.396 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Randomized controlled trial Double-blind Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 60 |
| Population | Hypertensive patients |
| Interventions | Zikr meditation placebo activity |
| Duration | 20-minute daily sessions for four weeks |
| Measures | Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), blood pressure readings |
| Topics | Anxiety Meditation |
| Key findings | Zikr meditation significantly reduced anxiety and stress and notably lowered systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared with a placebo activity in hypertensive patients. The authors propose that incorporating Zikr meditation into standard hypertension management could offer a valuable non-pharmacological approach to improving cardiovascular health. |
Abstract
Background: Hypertension, a prevalent chronic condition, poses significant health risks when left untreated. Psychological factors like stress and anxiety are known contributors to high blood pressure. Effective management of hypertension may benefit from non-pharmacological interventions that address these psychological elements.
Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the impact of Zikr meditation, a spiritual mindfulness practice, on reducing anxiety, stress, and blood pressure in individuals with hypertension.
Methods: A double-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted with 60 hypertensive patients, randomized into intervention and control groups. The intervention group participated in 20-minute Zikr meditation sessions for four weeks daily, while the control group engaged in a placebo activity. Anxiety and stress levels were measured using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), respectively. Blood pressure readings were taken before and after the intervention.
Results: Participants in the Zikr meditation group showed a significant reduction in anxiety and stress levels compared to the control group. Additionally, there was a notable decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure among those practicing Zikr meditation.
Conclusions: Zikr meditation effectively reduces anxiety and stress, leading to lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients. These findings suggest that incorporating Zikr meditation into standard hypertension management could offer a valuable, non-pharmacological approach to improving cardiovascular health. Further research is recommended to examine Zikr meditation's long-term effects and broader applicability in hypertension care.
Comparable studies
Other randomized controlled trials on anxiety, most cited first.