| This study examined the effects of learning and practicing The Radiance TechniqueRTM (TRTRTM) on the quality of life of people living with Type 2 diabetes and long-term practitioners. In Part One, 22 people with Type 2 Diabetes attended a 2-day workshop during which they were instructed in the First Degree of TRTRTM, followed by 8 weekly practice/support meetings. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected pre- and post-intervention. Nineteen people completed the program (California residents, 16 female, 3 male, 14 Caucasian, 2 African American, 2 Hispanic, and 1 West Indian). Quality of life was measured using: Profile of Mood States (POMS), State Trait Anxiety Index (STAI), Spirituality Assessment Scale (SAS), and Diabetic Quality of Life Scale (DQOL). Hemoglobin A1C levels were collected for 14 participants. Qualitative data were collected from the weekly support meetings and by interviews with 6 post-intervention participants. Participants showed significant improvement in quality of life (within subject MANOVA, F [4, 14] = 8.82, p = .001). Changes in Hemoglobin A1C (-0.32%, +4.5%) showed an improving trend (p = .056) with a medium effect size (r = .43). Qualitative data supported these results, with participants reporting benefits including improved health, greater self-confidence and esteem, and a more positive outlook on life. Significant improvements were shown on all instruments ( p = .001, .013, .39, and .003, respectively) and medium and large effect sizes (r = .66, .56, .48, and .64, respectively). Part Two investigated whether long-term practice of TRTRTM was associated with positive change. Sixty-four experienced practitioners completed a personal profile and the Omega Life Change Inventory. Multiple regression analysis indicated that intensity of practice was the only significant predictor of change. Neophyte practitioners in Part One showed a trend towards similar changes after 3 months. Results indicate that TRTRTM may be an effective intervention in improving quality of life of a population with Type 2 diabetes. |
