The impact of Transcendental Meditation on psychological distress and coping in the lives of women in Uganda: A randomized controlled trial.

A randomized controlled trial with 199 women living in poverty in Uganda found that practicing Transcendental Meditation for 20 minutes twice daily led to significant reductions in perceived stress, anger, and fatigue, along with improvements in self-efficacy and sleep quality after three months. At an eight-month follow-up, participants reported better physical and mental health, greater ability to handle domestic violence, and improved relationships. The results suggest the Transcendental Meditation program positively affects psychological distress and coping, and could be a valuable addition to programs for women in Uganda.

Study at a glance

Abstract

In this randomized controlled trial with women living in poverty in Uganda (n = 199) we explored the impact of Transcendental Meditation® (TM®) on perceived stress-the primary outcome measure, and self-efficacy, anger, anxiety, fatigue, sleep, and resilience as secondary measures. After baseline testing participants were randomly assigned to either practice of TM or to a waitlist control group. Participants learned TM over five consecutive days and then practiced at home for 20 -minutes twice a day. Post testing took place after three months. A significant reduction was found in perceived stress, anger, and fatigue, and a significant improvement in self-efficacy and sleep quality. In a follow-up questionnaire at eight months, participants reported improved physical and mental health, increased ability to handle domestic violence, and improved relationships. Results indicate the TM program has a positive impact on psychological distress and coping and could add value to programs for women in Uganda.