Can Yoga Based Practices Strengthen Capacity for Creative Problem Solving?

Abstract

Given the centrality of creative problem solving (CPS) for organizations, we examined the association of interoceptive awareness (IA) and self-transcendence (ST) with CPS and that Yoga Based Practices (YBP), a holistic intervention, impact IA and ST. To test the hypotheses, two studies were conducted with a sample of graduate students having professional experience enrolled in a top-tier management program in India. The results of Study 1 (n=200), a survey design, supported the theoretical model of IA and ST as antecedents of CPS, and study 2 (n=103), an experimental design, indicated the significant positive impact of YBP on IA and ST. The study augments the research on workplace spirituality and CPS training, and discusses the theoretical and practical implications for desirable results (positive change) in organizations and management education. Limitations of the study and directions for future research are discussed.