Pre- and post-intervention assessments
COLD
Assessments were taken during the pre- and post-intervention periods with the subjects in the sitting position. BP was assessed in the left arm using an automated oscillometric device, and HR by a 3-lead ECG connected to a multiparameter monitor (Mindray MEC-1000, Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co, China). These assessments were performed at rest, and during the Stroop Color and Word Test (SCWT), the Cold Pressor Test (CPT) and the handgrip test (detailed below). A 3–5 min recovery period was provided between each test for the return of HR and BP to baseline.