Can a simple relaxation technique soothe the mind after a stroke?

NCT ID NCT07731282

Not yet recruiting Symptom relief Sponsor: Geng Nannan Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 28, 2026 · Last updated Jul 29, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial investigates whether Benson Relaxation Technique (BRT), a 20-minute mind-body relaxation session, can reduce anxiety and depression in people who had an ischemic stroke 1-2 weeks earlier. Participants are randomly assigned to receive either BRT or health education twice daily for 14 days. Researchers measure mood changes with standard questionnaires and use brain imaging to see if BRT alters activity in the prefrontal cortex.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Benson Relaxation Technique, a 20-minute mind-body relaxation session involving breathing, muscle relaxation, and guided imagery, delivered twice daily for 14 days.
What this could lead to: If effective, this could offer a safe, drug-free way to improve mood and brain function during early stroke recovery.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage trial with 74 participants, so results may not apply to all stroke patients. The relaxation technique may not significantly change anxiety or depression compared to standard education.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety disorder ischemic stroke stroke disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ISCHEMIC STROKE, ACUTE POST-STROKE ANXIETY POST-STROKE DEPRESSION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Changchun University of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Changchun, Jilin, 130117, China

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