Exploring the Role of Hatha Yoga in Altering Dispositional Mindfulness

Abstract

The present research study was an intervention study conducted to elucidate the effects of different Hatha yoga practices on dispositional mindfulness among young adults not characterized by any clinical condition. 280 participants were assigned to three different Hatha yoga intervention groups and a control group for duration of three months. Baseline and post intervention scores for mindfulness were recorded for all the four groups using the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire. Data was analyzed using analysis of covariance for measuring the mean difference between-groups. A highly significant difference was observed between groups on the ability to observe and describe emotions/inner experiences and act with awareness, all of which are positive indicators of dispositional mindfulness. Analysis of t-test revealed maximum significant and positive change in dispositional mindfulness in the combined intervention group of yoga asana and pranayama and meditation, followed by the pranayama and meditation group and the yoga asana group, respectively. Findings reinforce Hatha yoga as a significant predictor of dispositional mindfulness and further contribute to the insufficient literature examining the psychological benefits associated with Yoga among adult masses with no specific clinical condition. It further suggests employing stronger interventional research designs and a mixed-method approach for in-depth assessment of participant experience to accurately evaluate the benefits associated with specific yoga practices and their effects on dispositional mindfulness.