Stress Reduction Intervention: A Theoretical Reconsideration with an Emphasis on Breathing Training

Abstract

In recent years, considerable attention has been focused on studies of stress reduction interventions. However, there have been controversies regarding their positive effects. The present paper is an attempt to initiate reconciliation of the discrepant findings. First, the term "stress" is redefined from a standpoint of cardiovascular hemodynamics. Then the attention-affect model is newly introduced in order to have a clearer understanding of the hemodynamic reaction patterns during stressful stimulation. Based on these reconsiderations, the stress reduction interventions are revaluated, with an emphasis on breathing training.