Zen Den: A Novel Approach to Promote Well-Being in the Workplace.
Journal of holistic nursing : official journal of the American Holistic Nurses' Association – December 01, 2024
Source: PubMed
Summary
A brief 10-minute session combining Reiki and meditation significantly improved nurses' well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. Among 92 participants, perceived stress decreased by 46%, anxiety dropped by 45%, while feelings of happiness rose by 17% and coping ability increased by 18%. This innovative approach, named "Zen Den," effectively utilized existing resources—Reiki-trained staff and a free online meditation app—to help nurses manage stress and enhance relaxation in a high-pressure environment. Such energy-based therapies can foster resilience in healthcare settings.
Abstract
Purpose: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, holistic nurses at an academic level 1 trauma center in Hawaii utilized a novel holistic approach to combat stress and anxiety symptoms while promoting nurse's well-being. This assessment aimed to determine whether a brief session incorporating Reiki and meditation could decrease nurses' perceived stress and anxiety while increasing perceived happiness and coping ability. Methods: Two Reiki-certified holistic nurses developed a mobile 10-minute individual well-being session called "Zen Den." In each session, the holistic nurse provided hands-on Reiki concurrent with a meditation streamed by a free online application. Pre and post-self-assessments were measured using a Likert scale. Findings: Participants (N = 92) showed an average decrease in perceived stress by 46% and anxiety by 45%, and an increase in feelings of happiness by 17% and perceived coping ability by 18%. Conclusion: This novel approach to promote well-being in the workplace can be achieved using existing resources such as Reiki-trained staff, a quiet space, and a 10-minute well-being session with guided meditation using a free online application.