Supporting Methods in Cardiovascular Diseases Rehabilitation

Four weeks of cardiac rehabilitation conducted in an outpatient care facility. Three times per week (80 minutes per day) cardiologically monitored aerobic training consisting of: 40 minutes of interval training on a cycloergometer and 40 minutes of general fitness exercises.

"8 sessions of relaxation-therapeutic recordings in the non-sleep deep rest concept.~The content of the recording is based on the 'body scanning technique', which constitutes the core of the therapy. This approach aims to quiet the overactive sympathetic part of the autonomic nervous system. During therapy, the patients take a 'journey' through their own body from feet to head. Following the voice of the narrator, the patient focuses on specific body parts, tries to feel this place and then relaxes tense muscles. Relaxation of individual body parts (muscle groups) is combined with breathing exercises. Conscious and mindful breathing deepens the state of relaxation. Additionally, the recording includes therapeutic suggestions related to making a choice between: overload and relief, holding on and letting go, acting and sensing. Furthermore, suggestions focus the patient on inner wisdom that allows them to make the best decisions."

8 sessions of VR therapy (each of them 20 minutes long). As a virtual reality source, VR TierOne device (Stolgraf®) were used. Thanks to using head mounted display and the phenomenon of total immersion VR therapy provides an intense visual, auditory and kinesthetic stimulation. It can have a calming and mood-improving effect or help the patients recognize their psychological resources and motivate to the rehabilitation process. In the virtual therapeutic garden there are a rich set of symbols and metaphors based on Ericksonian Psychotherapy approach.The most important is the Garden of Revival which symbolizes the patient's health. It used to be full of life and energy, now it is neglected, requires work to be revived. In the therapeutic process day by day, the therapist tells the patient a symbolic story about his/her situation.

8 sessions of Schultz Autogenic Training (each of them 20 minutes long).