Effects of Pranic Energisation Technique versus Mindful Stretching on Fear of Cancer Recurrence and Depression: A Pilot Study.

Abstract

Cancer remains a leading global health challenge, contributing to substantial morbidity, mortality and rising healthcare costs. Individuals affected by cancer frequently experience psychological challenges such as depression and fear of cancer recurrence (FCR). In response, integrative approaches such as yoga-based mind-body practices are gaining attention as potential interventions for mental health and thereby mitigating FCR in cancer care. To compare the effects of an advanced meditation practice - pranic energisation technique (PET) - with mindful stretching (Sukshma Vyayama) on psychological outcomes, specifically FCR and depression, among individuals affected by cancer. A comparative control design was employed. Thirty-four participants (n = 34) were assigned to either the intervention group receiving PET or the control group receiving Sukshma Vyayama. The intervention lasted 4 weeks. Outcomes were assessed using the FCR inventory-short form (FCRI-SF) and the patient health questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). The intervention group showed a significant reduction in FCRI-SF scores (F = 245.62, P < 0.001) and PHQ-9 scores (F = 407.42, P < 0.001), indicating greater improvement in psychological well-being compared to the control group. A 4-week yoga-based meditation intervention significantly alleviated FCR and depressive symptoms among cancer-affected individuals. These findings support yoga's role as an adjunctive therapy in psycho-oncology. Future studies should explore long-term outcomes and underlying mechanisms.