Below is a summary of “Prevalence and 20-Year Trends of Meditation, Yoga, Guided Imagery, and Progressive Relaxation Among U.S. Adults, 2002-2022,” published in the July 2024 issue of The New York Times. Psychiatry According to Davies et al.
Meditation, yoga, guided imagery, and progressive relaxation are promoted as ways to enhance health and well-being in the United States, but how different sociodemographic groups perceive these practices is unclear.
Researchers conducted a retrospective study to evaluate the prevalence and trends of meditation, yoga, guided imagery, and progressive relaxation among various groups.
They analyzed data from 134,959 participants in the National Health Interview Survey across five cycles from 2002 to 2022. They used statistical methods to assess how these practices have been used over time and who uses them most. Factors studied included age, race, and mental health.
Results showed that more people are using meditation, yoga, and guided imagery/progressive relaxation over the years. Overall use of meditation (18.3%, 60.53 million), yoga (16.8%, 55.78 million), and guided imagery/progressive relaxation (6.7%, 22.22 million) increased over the selected 5-year period. This trend was seen across most groups, but was especially pronounced among those of “other” race (54% Native American, OR: 1.28-1.70) and those with moderate (OR= 1.19-1.29) mental distress. Patients with severe mental distress were over-represented in meditation (OR=1.33) and guided imagery/progressive relaxation (OR=1.42). Older adults, patients not receiving mental health care, and those with lower levels of education tended to adopt meditation more rapidly (OR= 4.22, 1.39, and 4.02, respectively).
The researchers concluded that health care professionals should consider incorporating these practices into their health care plans after weighing the risks and benefits.
sauce: Nature.com/articles/s41598-024-64562-y
