Keywords

guided imagery, pregnancy, relaxation, stress anxiety

 

Authors

  1. Jallo, Nancy PhD, RNC, FNP
  2. Bourguignon, Cheryl PhD, RN
  3. Taylor, Ann Gill EdD, RN, FAAN
  4. Utz, Sharon W. PhD, RN

Abstract

The objective of this 12-week study was to determine whether a relaxation-guided imagery (R-GI) intervention designed as a primary prevention strategy for stress management was perceived as beneficial to African American women during the second trimester of pregnancy. All participants documented perceived benefits of the R-GI intervention that included the following: (1) improved breathing; (2) ability to relax, clear one's mind, and become calm; (3) ability to channel and decrease stress; (4) release of anxiety; (5) use of R-GI throughout the day helped control anger and state of mind, leading to a smoother day; and (6) improved ability to fall and stay asleep.