Mind–Body Integration Practices as Promoters of Healthy Emotional States

Abstract

Introduction: Recent research from various emerging fields, such as psychoneuroimmunology, integrative medicine, and epigenetics, showed a close link between emotional states and health. This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention based on mind–body integration practices in emotional regulation. Materials and Methods: We evaluated changes in the positive and negative affectivity scale in 102 participants before and after the intervention, which was performed during eight meetings lasting 6 h each, for 4 months. Results: An increase in positive affectivity and a decrease in negative affectivity were found after the intervention. The affectivity index (i.e., positive affectivity/ negative affectivity) increased from a 2:1 ratio to a 3:1 ratio. This latter ratio has been associated with healthy states. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that mind–body integration practices can confer to emotional regulation and positive affectivity. These beneficial effects could improve psychophysical well-being at both the individual and collective levels.