This study investigates whether the psychophysiological benefits of breathing exercises are driven by a specific physiological rhythm (6 breaths per minute) or by the general psychological experience of performing a structured, mindful activity. Researchers aim to determine if "coherent breathing", which is hypothesized to synchronize heart and respiratory rhythms, offers unique physiological protection against stress compared to breathing at a natural pace or simple resting. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does slow, steady breathing at 6 breaths per minute lower physical stress markers (like heart rate variability and cortisol) better than faster, but structured breathing or just sitting still? * Is the calming effect caused by the specific breathing rhythm or simply by performing a structured, relaxing activity? Researchers will compare three groups to see if the specific rhythm of "coherent breathing" offers unique benefits: 1. Group (Interventional): Coherent Breathing: Slow breathing at 6 breaths per minute. 2. Group (Sham Breathing): Regular breathing at 15 breaths per minute (matching a natural pace). 3. Spontaneous Breathing (Control Group): Natural, unguided breathing. Participants will: * Complete a one-day preparation phase to become familiar with the breathing technique. * Visit the research center for one experimental session. * Perform their assigned breathing method before and after a stress test. * Take the Maastricht Acute Stress Test (MAST), which involves putting a hand in cold water and doing mental math. * Provide saliva samples and have their heart rate variability, and mood measured multiple times.
Age range
18 Years – 60 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Change in Root Mean Square of Successive (RMSSD)
Timeframe: Measured at 5 time points: at Baseline (0 minutes), and approximately 25, 45, 60, and 75 minutes after Baseline during the single experimental session on Day 3.
Change in PNS Index
Timeframe: Measured at 5 time points: at Baseline (0 minutes), and approximately 25, 45, 60, and 75 minutes after Baseline during the single experimental session on Day 3.
Change in Salivary Cortisol Concentration
Timeframe: Measured at 5 time points: at Baseline (0 minutes), and approximately 25, 45, 60, and 75 minutes after Baseline during the single experimental session on Day 3.
Change in STAI-State score
Timeframe: Measured at 5 time points: at Baseline (0 minutes), and approximately 25, 45, 60, and 75 minutes after Baseline during the single experimental session on Day 3.
Change in Mean HR
Timeframe: Measured at 5 time points: at Baseline (0 minutes), and approximately 25, 45, 60, and 75 minutes after Baseline during the single experimental session on Day 3.