Effects of Integrative Restoration iRest on Perceived Stress in Workers

Abstract

This study explored the effects of a 10-step protocol of iRest® Yoga Nidra Meditation on perceptions of stress in workers. The research hypothesized that the completion of a 4-week iRest protocol would decrease perceived stress in working participants, and that the use of a take home CD or mp3 would offer added benefits. A total of sixty participants (N= 60) included adults over the age of 18 years who were currently employed at least 20 hours per week. Of the sixty participants, thirty (N = 30) were in the experimental group, and thirty (N = 30) were in the control group. The primary outcome variable measured was analyzed by the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) instrument, and an iRest Home CD Practice Diary. A 2x2 mixed model Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was performed to identify any statistical drop in stress between the iRest meditation group and the control group. A bivariate correlation was also used to identify any statistical significance between the number of times CD/mp3was utilized during the week and differences in pre-and post-stress. Results showed there was a significant decrease in stress levels reported by participants in the iRest meditation group as compared to the non-significant decrease in stress reported by those not receiving the iRest treatment protocol. The use of the accompanying home study CD/mp3 had no apparent effect on stress in participants. This study provided greater evidence of the benefits to corporations in providing iRest yoga meditation for decreasing stress in workers. Future research on stress reduction in workers may include targeting specific types of workers who report high stress, customization of the iRest protocol, and longer-term administration of iRest to further ensure sustained effects of reducing stress in workers.