A pilot randomized control trial investigating the effect of mindfulness practice on pain tolerance, psychological well-being, and physiological activity
Research output: Contribution to journal › Journal article › Research › peer-review
Objective: To investigate the effect of mindfulness training on pain tolerance, psychological well-being, physiological activity, and the acquisition of mindfulness skills. Methods: Forty-two asymptomatic University students participated in a randomized, single-blind, active control pilot study. Participants in the experimental condition were offered six (1-h) mindfulness sessions; control participants were offered two (1-h) Guided Visual Imagery sessions. Both groups were provided with practice CDs and encouraged to practice daily. Pre-post pain tolerance (cold pressor test), mood, blood pressure, pulse, and mindfulness skills were obtained. Results: Pain tolerance significantly increased in the mindfulness condition only. There was a strong trend indicating that mindfulness skills increased in the mindfulness condition, but this was not related to improved pain tolerance. Diastolic blood pressure significantly decreased in both conditions. Conclusion: Mindfulness training did increase pain tolerance, but this was not related to the acquisition of mindfulness skills.
Original language | English |
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Journal | Journal of Psychosomatic Research |
Volume | 62 |
Issue number | 3 |
Pages (from-to) | 297-300 |
Number of pages | 4 |
ISSN | 0022-3999 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Mar 2007 |
- Mindfulness meditation, Physiological activity, Psychological well-being, Randomized control trial
Research areas
ID: 189876548