At a glance
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Examination of the Effect of Mandala Coloring Activity Applied to Caregivers in the Palliative Care Clinic Along With Benson Relaxation Exercise on Stress, Anxiety and Mental Well-Being
In Brief
A clinical study evaluating mandala coloring activity and Benson relaxation exercises for Benson Exercise and 2 related conditions. Completed, enrolled 68 participants across 1 site.
Detailed Summary
This study aimed to examine the effects of mandala coloring activities, applied in conjunction with Benson relaxation exercises, on the stress, anxiety, and mental well-being of caregivers in a palliative care clinic. Accordingly, the hypotheses of the study are as follows: H0a: The combined application of Benson relaxation exercises and mandala coloring activities has no effect on the stress levels of caregivers in a palliative care clinic. H0b: The combined application of Benson relaxation exercises and mandala coloring activities has no effect on the anxiety levels of caregivers in a palliative care clinic. H0c: The combined application of Benson relaxation exercises and mandala coloring activities has no effect on the mental well-being of caregivers in a palliative care clinic. H1a: The combined application of Benson relaxation exercises and mandala coloring activities has an effect on the stress levels of caregivers in a palliative care clinic. H1b: The combined application of Benson relaxation exercises and mandala coloring activities has an effect on the anxiety levels of caregivers in a palliative care clinic. H1c: The combined application of Benson relaxation exercises and mandala coloring activities has an effect on the mental well-being of caregivers in a palliative care clinic.
Study Details
Timeline
Interventions
Mandala coloring is an art therapy method that allows individuals to express their inner world by coloring circular and symmetrical patterns. According to Carl Jung, the mandala represents the subconscious and symbolizes an individual's inner integrity, with drawings reflecting a person's self-perception and mood. Structured mandalas are accessible and low-threatening in clinical settings. The activity is typically conducted in short sessions where participants choose the patterns and colors they wish to use. The coloring process promotes meditation and awareness, providing mental calmness and helping individuals recognize their emotions and values while offering a sense of control and accomplishment during chaotic situations. As a safe, time-efficient, and self-management tool requiring no special skills, mandala coloring contributes to reducing stress and anxiety, making it an effective complementary practice for palliative caregivers.
The Benson Relaxation Technique (BRT) is a behavioral intervention designed to elicit a "relaxation response" through breath regulation, cognitive focus, and the repetition of words or phrases. This response, which is the physiological opposite of the stress reaction, reduces heart rate, respiration, blood pressure, and muscle tension while lowering stress hormones and promoting mental calmness. BRT is practiced in a quiet environment, in a comfortable position with eyes closed, for 10 to 20 minutes. Participants focus on their breath, repeat a chosen word silently, and acknowledge and release distracting thoughts. Clinical studies have demonstrated that BRT reduces anxiety, depression, perceived stress, and fatigue, while improving sleep quality and contributing to overall quality of life. It is a safe, low-cost, and accessible stress management method for palliative caregivers.