Program for managing stress through breathing techniques and hypnosis

Examining the Immediate and Training Effects of Regular Stress Reduction Practices on Psychophysiological Markers of Anxiety

NA · Stanford University · NCT06526585

This study is testing whether breathing techniques or hypnosis can help people manage stress and anxiety better than listening to an audiobook.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorStanford University (other)
Locations1 site (Stanford, California)
Trial IDNCT06526585 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of two breathwork techniques, cyclic sighing and box breathing, compared to hypnosis and an audiobook on stress management. Participants will engage in daily practice for four weeks, with assessments of psychological and physiological outcomes. The study aims to determine which intervention provides the best results in reducing stress and anxiety levels. MRI assessments will be conducted to gather additional data on the effects of these interventions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who are experiencing stress or anxiety and have no contraindications for MRI imaging.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant during the study, or those unable to attend MRI assessments, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could provide patients with effective, non-pharmacological strategies to manage stress and anxiety.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with breathwork and hypnosis for stress management, indicating that this approach has potential based on previous findings.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18 or older
* No contraindications to MRI imaging (like ferromagnetic metal in their body)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnant or planning to get pregnant during study participation.
* Not able or willing to come to research location twice for MRI assessments

Where this trial is running

Stanford, California

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Stress, Anxiety, Breathwork, Cyclic Sighing, Box Breathing, Hypnosis, Mood, Physiology

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.