Comparison of Two Behavioral Treatments for Stress Reduction

Exploratory Analysis of the Relaxation Response (RR) and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) for Stress Reduction

Currently there are 2 popular stress reduction courses that are widely used in the US. Although they use somewhat similar techniques, it is currently unknown whether or not they work the same way, or if they are similarly effective at reducing stress. The study will directly compare these 2 courses. Participants will undergo approximately 4-5 hours of testing before and after each 8-week course.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 25 to 60 years old
• Good general health
• Able to attend all 8 sessions of the course and practice the techniques each night for 25 minutes

Exclusion Criteria:

• Psychiatric medications
• Significant medical or psychological illness
• Metalic implants (such as a pacemaker or artificial joints) that are not MRI compatible.
• Claustrophobia
• Pregnancy
• Previous head trauma or neurological disorder
• Previous experience with yoga or meditation