Yoga Sessions Research Articles

Effects of laughter yoga practiced by the first year nursing students before clinical practice on their perceptions of stress and meaning of life: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundLaughter yoga has a positive effect on the person’s mental/general health, life satisfaction and psychological well-being and enables the person to cope with stress.ObjectiveThis randomized controlled study was conducted to determine the effect of laughter yoga practiced by first year nursing students before clinical practice on their perceptions of stress and meaning of life.MethodIn this experimental randomized and controlled study including a control group, we administered a pre-test, post-test one and post-test two to the participating students. Ninety nursing students who met the inclusion criteria comprised the study sample. The students in the intervention group took part in eight sessions of laughter yoga for four weeks, twice a week. The Descriptive Information Form, Perceived Stress Scale, and Meaning and Purpose of Life Scale were administered to collect the study data.ResultsThe mean age of the students in the intervention and control groups was 19.65 ± 2.27 and 19.18 ± 1.01 years, respectively. Of the participants in both groups, 91.1% were women, and 97.8% were single. The difference between the mean scores obtained from the Perceived Stress Scale and the Meaning and Purpose of Life Scale by the students in the intervention group at the pre- and posttest were statistically significant (p < 0.05).ConclusionLaughter yoga positively affects nursing students’ perceptions of stress and meaning and purpose of life.Trial registrationTrial Registration number and Date of registration: NCT06042959 / 09/14/2023 06:17.

The Effects of Yoga on Key Adipocytokines in Obesity: A Narrative Review of Leptin and Adiponectin.

Obesity is a global health concern that increases the risk of numerous complications, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. Conventional obesity treatments, such as lifestyle modifications, pharmacotherapy, and surgical interventions, are often insufficient, highlighting the need for more efficient and effective approaches. Yoga, an ancient mind-body practice incorporating physical postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), and meditation, has emerged as a potential therapeutic intervention for obesity management. This review examines the functions of leptin and adiponectin, two key adipocytokines central to obesity, and evaluates the impact of yoga on these hormones. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar with the keywords "yoga" and "adipocytokine" as of May 5, 2024, resulting in the selection of 12 relevant studies. The majority of studies reviewed demonstrated that yoga significantly decreases leptin levels and increases adiponectin levels. Intensive yoga sessions and combined dietary interventions were found to contribute notably to improvements in these hormonal levels. These findings suggest that yoga may improve the balance between leptin and adiponectin, offering beneficial effects on anti-obesity and chronic inflammation reduction. Yoga, as an economical and non-invasive treatment option, presents a promising approach to managing obesity. Further research is expected to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and explore potential clinical applications.

Placemaking Through Sensory Engagement: Assessing Cultural Essence of Assi Ghat, Varanasi for Virtual Environments

Assi Ghat, one of the most prominent places in India, and incorporating the steps leading down to the sacred river Ganges in Varanasi, is a microcosm of the city’s spiritual, cultural, and social life. This paper explores the sensory experiences at the cultural landscape site Assi Ghat, focusing on how these experiences shape the identity of the space and contribute to the overall experience of visitors and pilgrims. The built fabric of the ghat (from Sanskrit Ghatta, steps leading to a river), along the sacred river Ganges, is not merely a geographical location but a multisensory environment where the sights, sounds, smells, and textures all play a crucial role in creating a deep, immersive experience and spiritual connection with the sacred environment. Various activities at the ghat, such as the morning prayers (Aarti), yoga sessions, and cultural performances become integral to this sensory landscape, influencing how both locals and visitors perceive and interact with the space. The study discusses the importance of sensory experiences in public spaces, particularly in the context of placemaking at cultural landscapes, where these elements contribute to the creation of meaningful and engaging environments. Additionally, the paper explores the concept of digital placemaking, suggesting that the sensory richness of Assi Ghat could be preserved and replicated in a digital environment. The study emphasizes the need to integrate sensory experiences into both physical and digital placemaking efforts to maintain the cultural and spiritual essence of Assi Ghat, ensuring that its unique atmosphere is preserved for future generations.

Improving health outcomes through a strength training and yoga program for young women with PCOS: A quality improvement project

Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder associated with physical, mental, and reproductive health challenges. Lifestyle interventions, including exercise and yoga, have shown promise in managing PCOS symptoms. This quality improvement project aimed to assess the impact of a combined strength training and yoga program on the health outcomes of young women with PCOS. Methods: The 13-month program (December 2021 to January 2023) was conducted in a community setting. Participants were young women diagnosed with PCOS, selected based on predefined inclusion criteria. The intervention included bi-weekly strength training and yoga sessions, supplemented by group discussions and motivational coaching. Primary outcomes included weight loss, BMI reduction, mental health improvement (measured by PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores), and menstrual regularity. Adherence and participation rates were tracked to evaluate engagement. Results: The average weight loss among participants was 5.2 ± 2.4 kg, with BMI reduced from 29.1 ± 3.2 kg/m² to 26.8 ± 2.9 kg/m². PHQ-9 depression scores decreased from 12.3 ± 4.5 to 6.4 ± 3.2, and GAD-7 anxiety scores improved from 10.6 ± 3.7 to 5.8 ± 2.9. Menstrual regularity improved, with 75% of participants reporting regular cycles by the end of the program. 82% of participants completed at least 70% of the sessions, indicating strong adherence. Conclusion: The combined strength training and yoga program effectively improved physical, mental, and reproductive health outcomes among young women with PCOS. High adherence rates demonstrated the feasibility of this approach, emphasizing the importance of lifestyle interventions in managing PCOS. Future efforts should focus on scaling the program and integrating nutrition-based strategies for even better outcomes.

Benefits of yoga in pregnancy: a randomised controlled clinical trial.

Modern obstetrics confronts a rise in caesarean sections (CS). Prevention of unnecessary primary CS is a global priority. Women face intense psychological and physiological challenges during childbirth. Fear and anxiety during labour reduce women's self-confidence and empowerment. Yoga is a body-mind practice that lowers maternal fear and anxiety and helps relax pelvic floor muscles during labour. The study examined whether yoga practice in pregnancy influences CS rate in primiparous singleton pregnant women, labour pain intensity and epidural analgesia requests at delivery ward admission. We conducted a single-blind, randomised, controlled clinical trial comparing yoga to standard obstetric care in pregnancy. A total of 214 participants were randomised, 106 in yoga and 108 in controls. Weekly 90-min yoga classes were led by a certified yoga teacher's supervision. Every pregnant woman in the interventional group completed 12 yoga sessions. Yoga group had a lower total CS due to less frequent In-labour CS (p=0.004) and a higher rate of spontaneous vaginal birth (p=0.009). They experienced less pain intensity during labour (p<0.001), and there was no difference in epidural analgesia requests. Engaging in yoga during pregnancy reduces the rate of In-labour CS, decreases discomfort and encourages spontaneous vaginal birth in primiparous singleton pregnant women.

Ultrasound Quantitative Assessment of the Effects of Yoga on Early Postpartum Pelvic Organ Position Recovery.

This study examines the effectiveness of yoga intervention on the early postpartum recovery of pelvic organ positions. A prospective study was conducted from May to November 2020, involving women who had vaginal deliveries and underwent pelvic floor ultrasound examinations. The control group received no intervention, whereas the experimental group participated in weekly 60-min yoga sessions from 1week to 3months postpartum. Pelvic organ positions, including the bladder neck, uterus, and rectal ampulla, were measured via ultrasound at rest and during the Valsalva maneuver at 42days and 3months postpartum. The effectiveness of yoga was assessed using t tests. A total of 128 women participated, with 66 in the control group and 62 in the experimental group. There were no significant differences between groups in age, parity, BMI, or fetal weight (p > 0.05). At 42days postpartum, there were no significant changes in bladder neck and uterine positions at rest, except for a significant decrease in rectal ampulla position in the control group (p < 0.01). During the Valsalva maneuver, the experimental group showed significant improvement in all pelvic organ positions at 3months compared with 42days (p < 0.001), with better outcomes than the control group (p < 0.001). Yoga intervention supports early postpartum recovery of pelvic organ positions.

Comparative Efficacy of Ayurveda Treatment Regimen and Letrozole along with Yoga Module in the Management of Unexplained and Anovulatory Female Infertility: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

Introduction: Infertility is a significant health problem with psycho-social burden for couples. Ayurveda considers a holistic approach, including complex multimodal regimens in managing infertility. Increasing evidence has shown that Yoga as an adjuvant to infertility treatment increases pregnancy rates. Therefore, this research will investigate the comparative efficacy of Ayurveda regimen and letrozole, along with integration of Yoga in both groups in female infertility. Methods: The primary outcome, ovulation rate, will be measured through serial transvaginal sonography (TVS) for six consecutive menstrual cycles. The secondary outcome, conception rate, will be measured by definitive signs of pregnancy. Participants’ quality of life will be assessed using the Ferti Quality of Life (FertiQOL) tool. The study will randomize 160 women aged 21–40 years diagnosed with anovulatory or unexplained infertility into two groups using permuted block randomization. Participants in group I will receive internal oleation with Phala Ghrita and mild purgation with Gandharvahasta (GH) oil for three consecutive cycles. Standard care group II participants will receive letrozole tablet once daily from day 3 to day 7 of the menstrual cycle for three cycles. The yoga instructor will take yoga sessions for participants of both groups for 6 months. This study will also use machine learning (ML) models to compare two regimens to predict improvements in outcome variables. The goal was to develop an online platform that aids personalized treatment planning and enhances clinical decision-making. Discussion: This will be the first study to generate evidence on the efficacy of integrated treatment regimens in female infertility, where predictive ML models will be developed.

The Impact of Mindfulness-Based Meditation and Yoga on Stress, Body Image, Self-esteem, and Sexual Adjustment in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Modified Radical Mastectomy: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Surgical interventions are commonly utilized in the treatment of breast cancer; however, they can elicit adverse effects on women's perceptions of femininity, leading to stress, negative body image, diminished self-esteem, and challenges in sexual adjustment. This study investigates the efficacy of mindfulness-based meditation and yoga in alleviating stress, enhancing self-esteem, improving body image, and facilitating sexual adjustment among women undergoing modified radical mastectomy. Using a prospective (pretest, posttest, and second-month follow-up), 2-arm (1:1), randomized controlled experimental design, the study involved 39 women (intervention group = 19, control group = 20) undergoing modified radical mastectomy. The intervention group participated in face-to-face mindfulness-based meditation and yoga sessions lasting approximately 90 minutes each over an 8-week period. Following the intervention, significant reductions in perceived stress and the significance attributed to breasts in sexuality were observed (P < .05), accompanied by increases in self-esteem and body perception (P < .05). However, no significant differences were observed in sexual adjustment (P > .05). Mindfulness-based meditation and yoga interventions demonstrated efficacy in mitigating perceived stress, enhancing self-esteem, and improving body perception among women undergoing modified radical mastectomy. The findings advocate for the integration of mindfulness-based stress reduction programs, particularly during the preoperative phase, to support oncological patients, particularly those with breast cancer. Psychosocial aspects such as body image, self-esteem, and sexual adjustment following radical mastectomy are frequently overlooked in clinical care. This research highlights the potential benefits of incorporating mindfulness-based yoga and meditation techniques into nursing interventions to alleviate stress and enhance body confidence among women undergoing mastectomy.

Enhancing Yoga Awareness Among Future Healthcare Practitioners: A Study on MBBS Students' Knowledge and Perceptions

Background: Yoga, and art and science rooted in ancient Indian culture, is increasingly recognized for its holistic benefits, contributing to physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Despite its global popularity, knowledge and awareness of yoga amongst medical students, particularly within Health Professions Education, remain underexplored. This study aimed to assess the understanding of yoga and yoga therapy among MBBS students to help integrate these concepts into future medical practice. Aim and Objective: The study sought to evaluate the general awareness of yoga among medical students, particularly focusing on misconceptions, technical terminology, and therapeutic applications, aiming to enhance their ability to utilize yoga in a healthcare context. Materials and Methods: Conducted at the School of Yoga Therapy, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth, this study involved 221 MBBS students participating in a yoga orientation program. The Yoga Awareness Questionnaire (YAQ), a 10-item pre-validated tool, was administered both before and after a single 60-minute yoga session. Paired t-tests were used to analyze changes in awareness with statistical significance set at p&lt;0.05. Results: The average YAQ score increased significantly from 5 to 7 post-intervention, indicating improved awareness. Increases were noted across understanding holistic yoga, Ashtanga Yoga concepts, and dispelling misconceptions. However, some variability persisted in technical terminology understanding. Conclusion: A single yoga awareness session effectively enhanced medical students' understanding of yoga, promoting a more uniform baseline knowledge. These findings suggest that integrating yoga education in healthcare curricula could prepare future practitioners to incorporate holistic practices into patient care. As the Government of India and the National Medical Commission are advocating integration of Ayush systems within modern medicine, the results of this study have several important implications.

Holistic approaches to living well with endometriosis.

Nutrition: Gluten-free, low-nickel and high intake of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids diets improve ERPP. Low FODMAP (fermentable oligo-, di-, monosaccharides and polyols), plant-based diet and antioxidant vitamin supplementation is helpful including those with concurrent irritable bowel syndrome. Body and Mind: Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) is beneficial in postoperative pain reduction, whilst mindfulness has been shown to reduce pain scores and dyschezia. Progressive muscle relaxation therapy and regular yoga sessions improve ERPP and Quality of life. Acupuncture: Acupuncture and moxibustion show improved pain scores compared to conventional therapies alone. Adjunct devices: TENS improves deep dyspareunia and reduces the number of days pain is experienced. Holistic management strategies for ERPP should be incorporated into routine counselling when discussing conservative, medical and or surgical treatments for endometriosis. The growing evidence presented for the use of holistic management strategies gives hope to those patients who cannot have, or don't respond to conventional approaches and as an adjunct alongside standard treatments. These findings should be incorporated into the routine counselling when seeing patients in the gynaecology outpatient setting presenting with chronic pelvic pain.

Validation and efficacy of a tele-yoga intervention for improving psychological stress, mental health and sleep difficulties of stressed adults diagnosed with long COVID: a prospective, multi-center, open-label single-arm study.

The objective of this study was to validate and test the efficacy of a 16-week tele-yoga intervention for perceived stress, anxiety, depression, and insomnia in individuals who had had COVID-19 infection in the previous year, and had reported moderately high levels of psychological stress (PSS ≥14). 25 and 50-min versions of the program were developed. They were then validated using Lawshe's content validity ratio after obtaining feedback from 20 yoga therapy experts. The safety and efficacy of the two programs were subsequently tested in a prospective, multicenter, open-label single-arm study. Eighty-six adults (18 male, 68 female) were recruited from two tertiary mental healthcare institutions, 48 in NIMHANS, Bengaluru; and 38 in SCARF, Chennai. Participants were assessed at weeks zero, 4, and 16 using validated tools. Data were analyzed using a Mixed Model, Intention to Treat approach. After week 16, 31 subjects remained in the trial and continued to practice yoga without any side effects. Subjects who adhered in the trial had significantly higher levels of baseline anxiety and depression as compared to subjects who dropped out. Results at week 4 included significant reductions in levels of perceived stress, anxiety, and insomnia; improvements were maintained at week 16. Correlations between number of yoga sessions and post-intervention PSS scores were negative (r = -0.49), and significant (p< 0.05). Both tele-yoga programs proved safe, useful tools to counteract perceived stress, anxiety and insomnia. Future trials should explore the utility of tele-yoga as a tool to enhance well-being and manage stress.

Effect of a Structured Tele Based Post COVID-19 Rehabilitation Program in the Indian Population.

Introduction: The emergence of coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) and the imperative for social distancing have propelled telehealth to the forefront. Even after discharge, patients may experience lingering symptoms, termed post-COVID-19 syndrome, which impairs functioning. This syndrome persists beyond recovery from COVID-19. Hence, timely implementation and sustained access to pulmonary rehabilitation services are crucial for COVID-19 patients. This study aims to assess the impact of a structured telerehabilitation program on post-COVID-19 recovery in the Indian population. Methodology: A total of 53 patients, with their informed consent, were included in the study, comprising 71.7% males and 24.3% females, with a mean age of 57.15 years (SD = 11.74, range: 30-81 years). Upon enrollment, comprehensive assessments were conducted, incorporating the visual analog scale (VAS) score for fatigue, 1-minute sit-to-stand test, post-COVID-19 functional status scale, and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21). Treatment interventions were administered remotely via WhatsApp video or Zoom calls, consisting of pulmonary rehabilitation protocols encompassing warm-up exercises, breathing exercises, aerobic and strength training, yoga, cooldown exercises, and regular educational sessions tailored to individual patient needs. Results: There was a significant improvement in outcome measures: VAS score for fatigue (t = 8.6, S, p < 0.001), 1-minute sit-to-stand (steps: t = 5.9, S, p < 0.001), and health-related quality of life (Z = 5.9, S, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The study shows that a structured tele-based program is not only effective in patients but also an approach that is feasible and should be considered for the delivery of rehabilitation to patients who are unable to participate in center-based rehabilitation.

Experiences with One-to-One Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga Sessions: Consensual Qualitative Research.

Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) is an evidence-based yoga intervention that has been used as an effective adjunct treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Previous research has focused on TCTSY offered in group settings. The present study examined experiences of individuals practicing TCTSY one-to-one (i.e., one client, one TCTSY facilitator). Study aims were to: (1) learn about participants' experiences with and reasons for attending one-to-one TCTSY; (2) describe and compare participants' experiences between group and one-to-one yoga settings; (3) explore participants' perceptions of the impacts of TCTSY on their trauma healing; and (4) document participants' intentions for continued one-to-one TCTSY use. Semistructured interviews were offered to participants at completion of a longitudinal observational study of one-to-one TCTSY; 4 of the 10 participants agreed to be interviewed. Interviewees were located in the United States and self-reported experiencing childhood trauma and a current PTSD diagnosis. Following the consensual qualitative research method, domains were initially created deductively by the team. Adjustments, as well as categories and core ideas, were created inductively. Results indicated that participants: (1) preferred one-to-one over groups because of perceived safety and comfort; (2) had positive experiences with TCTSY; (3) perceived biopsychosocial benefits from the practice and described using TCTSY principles outside of sessions; and (4) intended to practice indefinitely. This study provided insight to the lived experiences of participants who use TCTSY as complementary care. Yoga facilitators and clinical trauma care providers are recommended to collaborate to offer one-to-one somatic-based approaches to create more access options for trauma healing.

Effectiveness of an interactive online group intervention based on pain neuroscience education and graded exposure to movement in breast cancer survivors with chronic pain: a randomised controlled trial

PurposeTo evaluate the effectiveness, compared with usual care, of an interactive online group programme combining pain neuroscience education (PNE) and graded exposure to movement (GEM) for improving quality of life and pain experience in breast cancer survivors with chronic pain.MethodsThis single-blind randomised controlled trial included a sample of 49 breast cancer survivors who were randomly assigned to two groups (experimental: n = 22 and control: n = 27). The experimental group received a 12-week person-centred online programme based on pain neuroscience education and therapeutic yoga as gradual exposure to movement, while the control group continued with their usual care. The primary outcome was quality of life (FACT–B + 4); the secondary outcomes were related to the experience of chronic pain (pain intensity, pain interference, catastrophizing, pain self-efficacy, kinesiophobia, and fear avoidance behaviours). All variables were assessed at four time points (T0, baseline; T1, after PNE sessions; T2, after yoga sessions; T3, at 3-month follow-up). For data analysis, ANOVA (2 × 4) analysis of variance (95% CI) was used when outcomes were normally distributed. If not, within-group and between-group comparisons were calculated.ResultsThirty-six participants were included in the analysis (control group, 22; experimental group, 14). A significant time * group effect was observed in favour of the experimental group regarding the global quality of life score (p = 0.010, ηp2 = 0.124). Significant differences in favour of the experimental group were observed for pain intensity, pain interference, catastrophizing, and pain self-efficacy. These differences persisted at follow-up.ConclusionsAn online intervention based on PNE and GEM appears to be more effective than usual care for improving quality of life in breast cancer survivors with chronic pain, as a time per group interaction was reported. In addition, the intervention also significantly improved the participants’ experience of chronic pain. However, due to the study limitations further research is needed.Trial record: NCT04965909 (26/06/2021).

A routine within a routine: Can bedtime yoga improve sleep for the whole family?

Parents often point to bedtime as a source of frustration, yet early bedtimes and sufficient sleep are important for children's development, learning, and behavior. ObjectivesThis pilot study aimed to assess the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of a yoga-based bedtime routine in a sample of parent-child dyads from a rural community. MethodsUsing a waitlist control study design, children aged 2–5 years and their parent were randomized to either intervention (yoga) or control (bedtime story) groups. Pre- and post-intervention measures included the CHAOS, CSHQ, and FNPA scales. Height, weight, and waist circumference were measured by trained staff, while sleep and physical activity were tracked using accelerometry. ResultsOf the 15 dyads that completed all assessments, 13 (81.2%) completed at least 16 yoga sessions. CSHQ scores improved in both groups (Cohen's d 0.42 vs. 0.52 for intervention and control, respectively), and FNPA scores improved in the intervention group (Cohen's d = 0.4). The number of sessions completed was inversely correlated with changes in CHAOS score (r = −0.74, p = 0.003). DiscussionThese findings suggest that a yoga-based bedtime routine is feasible for families with 2-5-year-old children, with good adoption and adherence. Improvements in sleep and household chaos measures indicate that a yoga routine may be slightly more effective than a story-based one. This study provides preliminary support for further research on a yoga-based bedtime routine in a larger sample.

Participant Experiences from a Randomized Controlled Trial of Heated Yoga for Depression.

Despite decades of research on yoga and depression, subjective experiences of participants in these studies have rarely been reported, and never in individuals receiving heated yoga for depression. We examined patient-reported qualitative findings from an 8-week randomized controlled trial of heated yoga for depression. Eighty medically healthy participants with moderate-to-severe depression were randomized to 8 weeks of at least twice-weekly heated yoga classes, derived from Bikram yoga, or a waitlist control. Fifty-seven participants received a clinician-administered exit interview at intervention completion/study withdrawal. The exit interview assessed: (1) how participants felt immediately following the heated yoga sessions (acute effects), (2) what they liked or found helpful about heated yoga over the 8-week intervention (positive effects), and (3) what they disliked/did not find helpful over the 8-week intervention (negative effects). Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Acute improvements in depressive symptoms (i.e., immediately following yoga) were the most commonly reported (n = 44, 77.2%), followed by overall positive effects on depressive symptoms (i.e., over the course of the 8-week intervention; n = 33, 57.9%), including improvements in sleep (n = 10, 17.5%), energy (n = 13, 22.8%), mood (n = 18, 31.6%), motivation (n = 2, 3.5%), and concentration/decision-making (n = 5, 8.8%). Overall negative effects (i.e., over the course of the 8-week intervention) included dislike of various aspects of the intervention (n = 19, 33.3%), such as instruction (n = 7, 12.3%), difficulty (n = 7, 12.3%), repetitiveness (n = 3, 5.3%), class length (n = 2, 3.5%), and boredom (n = 7, 12.3%). Most participants reported both overall positive and negative effects (n = 37, 64.9%). Of the rest, 19 (33.3%) reported only overall positive effects, and 1 (1.8%) reported only overall negative effects. Most participant experiences were positive. Negative effects were less common and primarily involved dislike of different aspects of the heated yoga. The findings support strong acceptability and subjective improvement in depressive symptoms in depressed individuals.

Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial of a Standard Versus Postures-Only Yoga Session: Potential Self-Regulatory and Neurophysiological Mechanisms of an Ancient Practice.

It is well-recognized that maintaining a regular yogic practice is associated with numerous physical and psychological health benefits. However, few studies have explored the possible psychological and neurophysiological mediators through which the component parts of yoga-ethics, breath regulation, postures, and meditation-work to produce salutary effects. To address this gap, we conducted a cluster randomized trial to test the following set of theory-based mechanisms: emotion regulation for ethics, self-control for breath regulation, discomfort and distress tolerance for postures, and mindfulness for meditation. We also explored yoga's effects on the autonomic nervous system by examining salivary acetylcholinesterase levels. Participants (N = 260) were randomly assigned in clusters (n = 37) to a single, hour-long standard or postures-only yoga class. Findings suggest that a single yoga class may confer both psychological and neurophysiological benefits, yet there were few differences between the two types of yoga classes. Pre- to post-session main effects of time, all in the expected direction, emerged for five of eight theoretical mediators, as well as for salivary acetylcholinesterase levels. Time X condition interactions observed for three of the mediators-cognitive reappraisal, discomfort tolerance, and expressive suppression-along with findings from the exploratory mediation analysis suggest potential unique benefits of the two yoga sessions for certain outcomes. Additional studies are needed to replicate these results and to test other potential mediators and/or primary outcomes through which yoga might work to promote health.

Integrated Ayurvedic Strategies for Obesity: A Case Report of Multidimensional Care

Worldwide obesity has nearly doubled between 1990 and 2022. In 2022, over 890 million people over 18 years and older were found to be obese. Obesity is a pathological condition characterized by excessive accumulation of body fat leading to detrimental effects on health. In Ayurveda, obesity has been described as Sthoulya or Medoroga in Santarpanjanya Vikara i.e., the disease caused by over nourishment. A single case study of 45 year old female patient with complaints of increased body weight for 5 years. Associated with exertion on minimal work and pain in lumbo-sacral region, both knee joints. Patient had no history of hypertension, diabetes and hypothyroidism. Considering other biochemical and physical examinations with BMI (38.3Kg/m2) patient was diagnosed as Obese Class II. After detailed history taking and thorough examinations patient was planned to intervene with oral medications (Panchatikta Ghreeta-Guggulu, Arogyavardhini Vati, Vidangadi Lauha and Varunadi Kashayam), Udvartan (massage with therapeutic powder), Pathyaahar (therapeutic diet- Vyoshadi Saktu) and Yoga sessions for 10 days. The patient was advised to continue with the same medications, Pathyaahar and Yogasana for 3 months. This integrated treatment approach yielded desired and significant improvement in the condition of the patient. This case demonstrates safe and convenient approach in the management of Obesity as per Ayurveda and paves way for further research.

Impact of Yoga on anxiety, stress and sleep quality among health care professionals during a public health crisis.

Health care professionals (HCPs) working on the frontlines of health care emergencies/pandemics often experience elevated anxiety, stress and reduced quality of sleep. Yoga is a mind-body practice that has been proven to effective in improving physical and mental health. To evaluate the effectiveness of integrated Yoga intervention on mental health measures and sleep quality among HCPs working during the COVID-19 pandemic. This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 110 HCPs, including Doctors and nursing staff, with an age range of 20 to 65 years who were recruited through a convenience sampling method and assigned to a Yoga group (n = 55) or a control group (n = 55). The Yoga group received a weekly one-hour Yoga session followed by a 30-minute self-practice three times a week at home for one month. The control group followed routine activity. Heart rate (HR), Blood Pressure, stress measures (Perceived Stress and visual analogue Scale for Stress), COVID-related anxiety, Sleep Quality, Quality of life and Preservative Thinking were assessed before and after the intervention. A significant decrease in stress measures, COVID-19-related anxiety and fear, and perseverative thinking was noticed in the Yoga group. Sleep quality and quality of life also improved significantly. The control group showed no significant change. At one month, the Yoga group showed significantly greater improvement in stress measures, COVID-19-related anxiety and fear, perseverative thinking, sleep quality and quality of life compared to the control group. Yoga practice during the public health crisis would help reduce anxiety and stress and improve sleep among HCPs. Further randomized controlled trials are warranted.

A THREE MONTHS YOGA PROGRAM ON COGNITIVE VARIABLES OF DEMENTIA RISK PARTICIPANTS: A PILOT STUDY

Background: Dementia refers to symptoms that affect memory, thinking, orientation, judgment, speech, and social abilities significantly enough to interfere with daily activities. Dementia is the second most prevalent disease worldwide. Materials &amp; Methods: A total of thirty individuals, with an average age of 52.4 years (± 7.68 years), were enrolled and then assigned at random to either the yoga group (average age 50.9 years ± 7.23 years) or the control group (average age 52.2 years ± 7.73 years). For a duration of three months, the control group participated in brisk walking sessions lasting thirty minutes five days a week, whereas the yoga group endured sixty-minute yoga sessions five days a week. Before and after the three-month intervention period for both groups, working memory was evaluated using the N back task, and executive function was examined using the Trail Making Test (TMT). Results: A significant difference was observed in all four parameters of N back test in yoga group as compared to the control group (P &lt; 0.05) after 12 weeks [ H1( P = 0.01), E1( P = 0.009), H2 (P = 0.0007), E2 ( P = 0.006 ]. There was improvement in the Trail Making Test, but did not observe the significant difference in the yoga group as compared to the control group ( P &gt; 0.05), [ A ( P = 0.096), B ( P = 0.569)]. Conclusion: The result of this pilot study suggests that yoga practices for dementia risk participants improves the Hit score of the N back test and reduces errors, similarly this improves the executive functions of the brain. Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.