Meditation for Anxiety: A Holistic Approach to Treatment

J Holist Nurs. 2024 Dec;42(4):374-383. doi: 10.1177/08980101231217361. Epub 2023 Dec 18.

Abstract

This comprehensive integrated literature review provides evidence-based information on mindfulness meditation as a primary care treatment for anxiety. A variety of databases were utilized for article collection including MEDLINE Complete, CINAHL Plus with full text, Cochrane library, APA PsycInfo, APA PsycTests, Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition, and PsycARTICLES. Research suggests anxiety can be treated effectively with a minimum of 8 weeks of meditation practice. Meditation is a cost effective and safe treatment modality that can be incorporated into the care of patients struggling with anxiety.

Keywords: anxiety; breath meditation; breathing meditation; meditation; mindful breath; mindful breathing; mindful meditation; mindfulness; mindfulness breathing; mindfulness intervention; mindfulness meditation; mindfulness technique; transcendental meditation; yoga meditation; yogic meditation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anxiety* / psychology
  • Anxiety* / therapy
  • Holistic Health*
  • Holistic Nursing / methods
  • Humans
  • Meditation* / methods
  • Meditation* / psychology
  • Mindfulness / methods