Key takeaways
- Mind-body practices are best seen as complements to treatment, not replacements.
- Evidence differs by condition. It is strongest for anxiety, depression, pain and insomnia and weaker for hot flashes and asthma.
- Each guide lists the signs that mean you should see a clinician.
Conditions
- Anxiety and depression
- Asthma
- Cancer and mind-body care
- Chronic pain
- Digestive health
- Heart health
- High blood pressure
- Infertility and stress
- Insomnia and sleep
- Memory and healthy aging
- Menopause
How to read these guides
Each guide begins with what is known about the condition and its standard treatment, then describes what studies have found about relaxation, mindfulness and related practices. Where evidence is weak, we say so. The largest review of meditation trials found moderate evidence for anxiety, depression and pain and less for other outcomes.[1] (source 1)
Common questions
Can I use these practices instead of medicine?
No. Do not stop or change prescribed treatment without speaking with your clinician. These practices are used alongside treatment.
Why are some conditions missing?
We cover conditions where research on mind-body approaches is substantial. We will add more as we review the evidence.
Sources
- Goyal M, Singh S, Sibinga EMS, et al. Meditation programs for psychological stress and well-being: a systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Intern Med. 2014;174(3):357–368. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2013.13018