The Neurophysiological and Psychological Mechanisms of Qigong as a Treatment for Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Objective: An increasing number of studies have shown the anti-depressive effect of qigong. However, its underlying mechanism remains poorly understood. This study aims to systematically review and meta-analyze existing literature on the mechanism of qigong in reducing depression. Method: The review process followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Randomized controlled trials of qigong were searched from PsycINFO, PubMed, Embase, ScienceDirect, and Academic Search Premier from inception to December 2018. Studies which involved depression and any neurophysiological or psychological mechanisms as outcomes were included. Publication bias was tested before conducting meta-analysis. Two independent raters were involved for the entire review process. Results: A total of nine studies were identified which covered both neurophysiological and psychological mechanisms. Among these selected studies, seven were involved in meta-analysis, which suggested that qigong was effective in alleviating depression (standardized mean difference, SMD = −0.27, p < 0.05, I 2 = 27%). A significant effect was also found for diastolic blood pressure (SMD = −1.64, p < 0.05, I 2 = 31%). However, no significant effect was found for cortisol level and systolic blood pressure. Conclusions: This review shows that qigong is effective in reducing depression through activating the parasympathetic nervous system. Future studies with higher quality of research methodology with less selection and attrition bias should be conducted to unravel the possible anti-depressive effect of qigong.

Changes Induced by Mind–Body Intervention Including Epigenetic Marks and Its Effects on Diabetes

“…Moreover, a meta-analysis of 23 trials that studied the effects of yoga in patients with T2D revealed that yoga significantly reduced the afternoon, evening, and waking cortisol levels, but did not reduce the 30 or 60 min post-waking and mid-morning cortisol levels, or the cortisol slope [ 93 ]. According to a meta-analysis related to qigong, the cortisol level was not significantly changed [ 129 ]. Therefore, the blood glucose level altered through MBI might be partially contributed to by the cortisol-mediated pathway.…”

Individual Stress Prevention through Qigong

“…A 10-week Qigong training for nursery and midwifery students resulted in reduced depressive mood [ 80 ]. The effectiveness of Qigong in relieving depression has been attributed to a reduction in cortisol levels [ 42 ] and activation of the parasympathetic nervous system [ 81 ].…”

The Effects of Tai Chi and Qigong on Immune Responses: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

“…Recently, a number of systematic reviews and meta-analyses have demonstrated the positive impact of TQ on physical conditions such as arthritis [24], cancer [25], diabetes [26], falls prevention [27], fibromyalgia [28], osteoarthritis [29], chronic pain [24,30] and cognitive function [31]. Evidence also supports the psychological benefits of TQ, particularly for symptoms of anxiety and depression [32]. Furthermore, several descriptive reviews have examined the beneficial effects of mind-body interventions, i.e., TQ, yoga and meditation on immune function and immune system-related inflammatory biomarkers [33,34].…”