Efficacy of frequent mantram repetition on stress, quality of life, and spiritual well-being in veterans: a pilot study.
OBJECTIVE
Silent, frequent repetition of a mantram-a word or phrase with spiritual significance, sometimes called a Holy Name-is an ancient form of prayer that may reduce stress and related symptoms. The authors tested the feasibility and efficacy of a 5-week (90-min per week) intervention on mantram repetition in a sample of ambulatory veterans.


METHODS
Aconvenience sample (N= 62) of outpatient veterans participated in the study by completing pre-and posttest self-report questionnaires on stress, anxiety, anger, quality of life, and spiritual well-being. Wrist-worn counters were provided to track mantram practice.


RESULTS
Mantram repetition significantly reduced symptoms of stress and anxiety and improved quality of life and spiritual well-being.


CONCLUSIONS
Additional research using a larger sample size and control group is needed to further substantiate the benefits of this intervention.


CONCLUSIONS
Frequent, silent mantram repetition is easily taught and could be used by nurses and patients for managing stress and increasing well-being.
Bormann
Jill E
JE
VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego State University, CA, USA.
Smith
Tom L
TL
Becker
Sheryl
S
Gershwin
Madeline
M
Pada
Laureen
L
Grudzinski
Ann H
AH
Nurmi
Elizabeth A
EA
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D000786:Anger; D029221:Faith Healing; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D019122:Meditation; D008875:Middle Aged; D019222:Mind-Body Relations, Metaphysical; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D017060:Patient Satisfaction / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011788:Quality of Life; D029181:Spirituality; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000517:prevention & control; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014728:Veterans