Healing the Heart: A Pilot Research Study

Principal Investigator:

Sara Warber, M.D.
Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Integrative Medicine

Co-Principal Investigator(s):

Vera Moura, M.D., University of Michigan Integrative Medicine

Funding sources:

Private foundation, University of Michigan General Clinical Research Center

Time period for subject recruitment (start/end dates):

This study completed recruitment in April 2005.

Abstract:

The study will examine the effect of Medicine for the Earth or a Lifestyle Change Program on depression, anxiety, stress, quality of life and cardiovascular health of patients who are recovering from heart attack. Research participants will be randomized into one of three groups:

• Medicine for the Earth, facilitated by Sandra Ingerman: Individuals in this group will participate in a 4-day weekend workshop learning ancient spiritual practices to help reconnect with the spirit of nature and improve overall health.
• Lifestyle Change Program: Individuals will participate in a 4-day weekend workshop learning the importance of nutrition, physical exercise, stress management, and group support to overall health.
• Control group: Individuals will continue with their regular treatment. At the end of the study, participants from this group will have the option of joining another Medicine for the Earth workshop.

Outcomes of interest include depression, quality of life, anxiety, social support, and interconnectedness. Participant self report on a variety of validated scales will be assessed at baseline, immediately following the interventions, at 3 months post intervention and at 6 months post intervention. A sub-sample will have blood taken at all time points for measurement of lipid profiles and C-reactive protein.

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