, Sept. 2 -- Simple practices such as mindfulness, gratitude journaling and optimism training may help improve heart health within a few weeks, according to a new review of clinical studies.

The research found that positive psychology and mindfulness-based programmes were linked to improvements in blood pressure, inflammation and other risk factors for heart disease.

The review, led by Rosalba "Rose" Hernandez, a professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, examined 18 randomized controlled trials involving people with existing cardiovascular risks, including high blood pressure, heart failure and other health conditions.

Most programmes lasted between six and 12 weeks and included weekly sessions along with activities par...