Nurse stress relief: A pilot study on the impact of healing touch and chakra techniques on well-being

Nursing. 2025 Jan 1;55(1):49-55. doi: 10.1097/NSG.0000000000000117. Epub 2024 Dec 20.

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate and assess the effects of Healing Touch (HT) level-one education and training and the 21-day practice of the self-chakra connection technique on the perceived stress levels of nurses at a large healthcare system located in the Mid-Atlantic US region.

Methods: This study used a mixed-methods design to collect quantitative and qualitative data via pre- and post-intervention surveys with Cohen's Perceived Stress Scale and post-open-ended questions. Data were analyzed using descriptive and correlational statistics.

Results: In this pilot study of 58 nurses who participated in HT classes, 34 nurses completed the presurvey and 22 completed both pre- and post-surveys. Results revealed a 3.8-point mean decrease in perceived stress scores, with participants reporting improved stress management, increased confidence, and better work preparedness. However, statistical significance was not achieved due to low post-survey completion rates.

Conclusion: Nurses who received HT training and practiced the self-chakra connection technique as part of their self-care reported decreased perceived stress levels, supporting the use of HT as a potentially effective approach to stress reduction among nurses.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nursing Staff, Hospital / education
  • Nursing Staff, Hospital / psychology
  • Occupational Stress / prevention & control
  • Pilot Projects
  • Stress, Psychological
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Therapeutic Touch* / nursing