A Randomized Controlled Trial Assessing the Psychological Benefits of a Daily Examen-Based Practice

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Mind-Body Practices
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• The Examen-based practice is a five-step daily reflection and prayer technique.
• It can be utilized as a spiritual or secular intervention for stress and challenges.
• Mindfulness and yoga are comparable practices with established benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of the Examen-based practice on psychological well-being.
• To explore its impact on hope, life meaning, and life satisfaction in university students.
• To compare the Examen-based practice against a wait-list control group.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 115 university students.
• Participants were assigned to either a two-week Examen-based practice or a wait-list control group.
• Measures of hope, life meaning, life satisfaction, mindfulness, compassion, stress, anxiety, and depression were administered pre-, post-intervention, and at follow-up.

Main Results:

• Significant differences were observed between the groups on measures of life meaning, satisfaction with life, and hope.
• The Examen-based practice group showed improvements in these key psychological well-being indicators.
• No significant differences were found for mindfulness, compassion, stress, anxiety, or depression.

Conclusions:

• The Examen-based practice demonstrates efficacy in enhancing global life evaluations and future perceptions.
• This daily reflection and prayer practice offers a valuable tool for improving psychological well-being.
• Further research is recommended to explore its applications and long-term effects.