Efficacy of Transcendental Meditation to Reduce Stress Among Health Care Workers

This randomized controlled trial studied the effects of Transcendental Meditation (TM) on stress and burnout in healthcare workers over three months. TM, practiced for 20 minutes twice daily, did not significantly reduce acute psychological distress compared to the control group. However, TM led to significant improvements in chronic stress markers, such as emotional exhaustion, anxiety, and insomnia, while boosting resilience and personal accomplishment. These findings suggest TM is effective for long-term stress-management but less impactful on immediate stress relief.

Healthcare workers facing chronic stress or burnout may benefit from practicing TM for 20 minutes twice daily. TM effectively reduces emotional exhaustion, anxiety, and insomnia while enhancing resilience. Though not as effective for acute distress, its long-term benefits make it a useful part of a broader stress-management strategy. Combining TM with other organizational and personal interventions can maximize overall well-being.