Breathlessness and anxiety are common in chronic/advanced lung disease but difficult to treat. Mindfulness, yoga and tai chi (BMi) are potential interventions to manage these symptoms.
This project:
- Co-developed initial theory to understand how and why BMi might work (with COPD/Lung Cancer stakeholders, experts and health professionals)
- Analysis of literature to test the initial theory and develop an explanatory model.
- Interviews with people using/delivering BMi in UK services to understand how BMi can work best, “on the ground”.
Findings show that BMi can improve breathlessness control, confidence and quality of life in advanced lung disease if: 1) Rationale for engaging with and investing in BMi is clearly explained;2) BMi is promoted by a trusted health professional or charity and delivered by an empathic therapist at the right time for the individual; 3) BMi emphasises positively-focused breath/body skills and relaxation. Implementation works best if health professionals include short, practical BMi skills in their day to day practice.
