Study of Baduanjin Breathing Training to Reduce Depression and Anxiety Symptoms in Adults Aged 18 to 70

What This Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of Baduanjin breathing training on people with symptoms of depression or anxiety, focusing on those with a mixed depressive and anxiety disorder that is not severe enough to meet full diagnostic criteria. The study aims to see if this mind-body exercise can reduce symptoms and understand how changes in lung function relate to symptom improvements. This is a prospective randomized trial conducted by the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Participants are divided into two groups one group receives health education plus a 16-week Baduanjin breathing training program that includes instructor-led group sessions and home practice, while the other group receives only health education. The Baduanjin training involves two 90-minute classes and at least five 30-minute home practice sessions per week, with warmup and cooldown periods included. The health education covers topics such as work, rest, and diet and is provided by professionals. Throughout the 16-week study, participants will be assessed using depression and anxiety rating scales to measure symptom changes. Lung functions like vital capacity and forced expiratory volume will also be monitored. Other assessments include questionnaires on depression, anxiety, and stress at 8 and 16 weeks. The study involves regular evaluations to track breathing patterns and symptom progress, with safety and adherence monitored by the research team.

Baduanjin Training for Depression and Anxiety Patients