title: Relaxation practice for health in the United States: findings from the National Health Interview Survey.
abstract: Despite the popularity of relaxation practices as mind-body therapy in the United States, little is known about those who practice these techniques. Using cross-sectional data from the 2007 National Health Interview Survey Alternative Medicine Supplement, this study examined potential correlates of engagement in relaxation practices, including sociodemographic characteristics, health behaviors, medical conditions, physical activity, drinking, smoking, and prayer for health. Individuals who engaged in relaxation practices were less likely to be older, male, Hispanic, high income, or residents in the South and Midwest. They were more likely to be college-educated, uninsured, and have one to two chronic conditions. Those with higher psychological distress and with asthma and pulmonary diseases practiced relaxation techniques more than individuals without these conditions. Findings suggest that relaxation practice is associated with lifestyles habits such as regular physical activity and prayer for health. Thus, relaxation practice has the potential to enhance health behaviors and lifestyle change.
authors: Department of Social Work University of North Carolina–Charlotte, CHHS Building 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28223, USA. elee50@uncc.edu
authors: Eun-Kyoung Othelia
authors: EK
authors: Lee
authors: Younsook
authors: Y
authors: Yeo
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior / Q000208:ethnology; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D019122:Meditation; D008875:Middle Aged; D026441:Mind-Body Therapies / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D009042:Motivation; D015999:Multivariate Analysis; D012063:Relaxation; D012657:Self-Help Groups / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000517:prevention & control; D014481:United States; D055815:Young Adult
keywords: health behaviors; lifestyles; mind–body; relaxation