Comparative Outcomes of Cognitive Thought Record, Shiras-Pada Abhyanga, and Nadishuddhi- Bhramari Pranayama in Anxiety Disorders: A Three-Group Study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Clinical Trial
Abstract: Anxiety disorders are associated with emotional distress, impaired sleep, and reduced psychological well-being. This study aimed to compare the therapeutic outcomes of Cognitive Thought Record (CTR) combined with Shiras-Pada Abhyanga, CTR combined with Nadishuddhi-Bhramari Pranayama, and Shiras-Pada Abhyanga combined with Nadishuddhi-Bhramari Pranayama in individuals with anxiety symptoms. A three-group comparative study was conducted among 45 participants, with 15 participants in each group. Group A received CTR and Shiras-Pada Abhyanga, Group B received CTR and Nadishuddhi-Bhramari Pranayama, and Group C received Shiras-Pada Abhyanga and Nadishuddhi-Bhramari Pranayama. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, Day 29, and Day 45 using the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and WHO-5 Well-Being Index. All three groups demonstrated improvements in anxiety symptoms, sleep quality, and psychological well-being. Group C showed the lowest mean anxiety scores at Day 29 and Day 45 (BAI: 9.47 at both assessments), improved sleep quality scores (PSQI: 4.07 and 4.53, respectively), and higher well-being scores (WHO-5: 15.27 and 15.07, respectively). Between-group differences were statistically significant for anxiety, sleep quality, and psychological well-being at both post-intervention assessments (p < .05). These findings suggest that the combination of Shiras-Pada Abhyanga and Nadishuddhi-Bhramari Pranayama may be beneficial in reducing anxiety symptoms and improving sleep quality and psychological well-being. However, further studies with larger samples and verification of statistical results are required to confirm these findings.
Author: Archana S N
Institution: Jain University
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7223464641