Investigating the impact of selfcare stress reduction strategies on cortisol levels

Abstract

It has been shown that behavioral therapy has effects on stress and also cortisol levels. This study investigated the impact of self-care stress reduction strategies on the cortisol levels of 59 urine samples. Stress behavior was evaluated by using written responses (questionnaire). Results indicated that transcendental meditation was statistically associated with the lowering of cortisol levels. Meditation can relax the mind, leading to a reduction in stress. From this study, stress and cortisol levels do have a direct correlation with one another. The data from this small pilot study raise the question of its utility as a stress marker in cardiac rehabilitation.