Improvement in physiological and psychological parameters after 6months of yoga practice

Are There Biological Correlates of Response to Yoga-Based Interventions in Depression? A Critical Scoping Review

Depression is the most common mental disorder worldwide. Both antidepressants and psychotherapy are effective in treating depression, but the response to these treatments is often incomplete. Yoga-based interventions (YBIs) have been advocated by some researchers as a promising form of alternative treatment for depression. Recent research has attempted to identify the biological mechanisms associated with the antidepressant actions of YBIs. In this scoping review, conducted according to the PRISMA-ScR guidelines, the PubMed and Scopus databases were searched to retrieve research on biomarkers of response to YBIs in patients with depression. These studies were also critically reviewed to evaluate their methodological quality and any sources of bias. Nineteen studies were included in the review. Based on these studies, there is preliminary evidence that YBIs may be associated with increased serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and reduced serum cortisol and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in patients with depression. However, many of these changes were also observed in the control arms, and the overall quality of the research was low. At present, it cannot be concluded that there are reliable biomarkers of response to YBIs in depression, though there are some potential biological correlates. Further advances in this field will depend critically on improvements in study design, particularly the minimization of sources of bias and the selection of more specific and sensitive biomarkers based on existing evidence from other treatment modalities.

Examining the impact of a restorative breath-based intervention "Sudarshan Kriya Yoga" at work: a field experiment

Background

Human capital plays a crucial role in the success of an organization and further contributes to the broader goals of growth and development of society. In this regard, it is essential to ensure the well-being of employees at the workplace. Given the positive impact of yoga on psycho-physiological aspects of health, this study aims to examine the impact of a breath-based yogic intervention, Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY), on stress, anxiety, thriving, general health, emotional well-being, social well-being, and psychological well-being among employees of a leading manufacturing firm in India.

Methods

Undertaking a randomized-control experiment design (n = 64), we examined the impact of SKY on stress, anxiety, thriving, general health, and emotional, social, and psychological well-being. Two certified instructors conducted the SKY intervention in a retreat format over 3 days.

Results

The analysis demonstrated positive outcomes across various aspects of participants' well-being, i.e., it significantly reduced their stress and anxiety and increased the levels of thriving, general health, and emotional, social, and psychological well-being. These findings are valuable for understanding the potential benefits of the SKY intervention.

Discussion

The findings provide support for considering SKY as a potential well-being intervention for employers at the workplace and society at large. Further exploration, implementation, and research in diverse contexts will be crucial to fully understand the long-term impact and scalability of the SKY intervention in promoting holistic well-being.

Protective roles of meditation practice and self-esteem on cognitive functions over time: findings from the Midlife in the United States study

BACKGROUND

Cognitive function is an important component of healthy ageing. However, it is unclear whether relaxation/meditation practices provide cognitive benefits, particularly in midlife and early late life. Meditative practices are associated with higher self-esteem, and self-esteem serves as a general protective factor for many health outcomes. The current study examines associations between meditation practice, self-esteem, and change over 10 years in midlife cognitive performance.

METHODS

Data were from waves 2 (2003-2004) and 3 (2013-2014) of the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study. We used structural equation modelling to examine whether persistent meditation practice at both waves or episodic practice at one wave is associated with better cognitive function over 10 years, compared to no meditation practice, while controlling for prior cognitive function and covariates (baseline socio-demographics, health, and functional status). Additionally, we assessed if self-esteem mediates the above associations.

RESULTS

We included 2168 individuals (Mage  = 65 ± 11). After controlling for covariates, the findings revealed that persistent meditation practice in both waves was associated with significantly less decline in episodic memory; however, no such effects were found for executive function. Further, although participants' higher self-esteem was significantly associated with less decline in executive function and episodic memory, it did not mediate the associations between meditation practice and cognitive functions.

CONCLUSIONS

While both persistent meditation practice and self-esteem have associations with cognitive outcomes for middle-aged and older adults in MIDUS, self-esteem as a mediator was not supported. Thus, future investigations should examine mechanisms that underlie these protective factors on cognitive performances across adulthood.

Experiences of Veteran and Civilian Patients in Exploratory Yoga Sessions for Chronic Pain: A Qualitative Study

Background

Yoga integrates all aspects of self, with biological, mental, intellectual, and spiritual elements. The practice of yoga aligns with the biopsychosocial model of health and, as such, it can be instrumental in pain treatment.

Aims

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore perceptions regarding the yoga sessions for chronic pain through thematic content analysis with comparison of gender, veteran or civilian status, and delivery methods.

Methods

Patients with chronic pain attended a 5-week intensive interdisciplinary chronic pain management program at the Michael G. DeGroote Pain Clinic. Participants were asked to complete six open-ended questions following four weekly 1-h yoga classes, through in-person or virtual delivery. Survey responses were thematically and separately analyzed by reviewers.

Results

Forty-one (N = 41) participants (56% males, 71% veterans) with an average age of 50.87 (SD 10.10) years provided comments. Nine themes emerged: (1) mind and body are one through yoga practices; (2) meaningful practice of yoga basics is productive for range of motion/movement, tension in joints, and chronic pain; (3) yoga classes provide an enjoyable process of learning; (4) yoga reminds patients of their physical capabilities; (5) routine practices lead to improvements; (6) yoga improved on strategies for chronic pain; (7) yoga can be adapted for each patient; (8) mindset improves to include positive thinking, better focus, and willingness to try new things; and (9) improvements exist for the current yoga programming.

Conclusion

Findings of the current study were nine qualitative themes that present the experience of patients with chronic pain in the yoga sessions.

Effects of Yoga Training Applied with Telerehabilitation on Core Stabilization and Physical Fitness in Junior Tennis Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to investigate the effects of yoga training applied with telerehabilitation on core stability, and strength, balance, flexibility, upper extremity stability, body awareness, and quality of life in tennis players aged 6-18 years.

METHODS

Forty tennis players were randomly divided into two groups to participate in this study. The control group (n = 20) continued tennis training and was informed about the importance of the core region. The yoga group (n = 20) received yoga training with telerehabilitation 2 days a week for 8 weeks. Athletes were evaluated with sport-specific core muscle strength and stability tests, the back scratch test, the sit and reach test, the flamingo balance test, the y-balance test (lower quarter), the upper extremity closed kinetic chain stability test, the SF-36, and body awareness questionnaires. Measurements have been done in the tennis club before and after the 8 weeks of training.

RESULTS

A significant increase was determined in core strength and stability, sit and reach, back scratch test, upper extremity stability, and body awareness questionnaire in the yoga group (p < 0.001). Flamingo and Y balance test results were significant (p < 0.002). Positive improvements were found in SF-36s energy-fatigue level, mental well-being, social function (p < 0.042), pain (p < 0.005), and general health (p < 0.001). A significant increase was observed in the core strength measurement mean score in the control group (p < 0.018). Sit and reach test, flamingo test, and body awareness questionnaire were found to be significant after the intervention (p < 0.001). Significant improvements were found in the pain (p < 0.042), and mental well-being (p < 0.001) sub-parameters of the SF-36.

CONCLUSION

In the study, it was concluded that yoga training applied with telerehabilitation in tennis players aged 6-18 has a positive effect on core strength, and stabilization, physical fitness parameters, quality of life, and body awareness.

Einleitung

Mit dieser Studie sollten die Auswirkungen von Yogatraining in Verbindung mit Telerehabilitation auf Rumpfstabilität, Kraft, Gleichgewicht, Flexibilität, Stabilität der oberen Extremität, Körperwahrnehmung und Lebensqualität bei Tennisspielern im Alter von 6 bis 18 Jahren untersucht werden.

Methoden

Vierzig Tennisspieler wurden randomisiert in zwei Gruppen aufgeteilt und nahmen an der Studie teil. Die Kontrollgruppe (n = 20) führte das Tennistraining fort und wurde über die Bedeutung der Rumpfregion aufgeklärt. Die Yoga-Gruppe (n = 20) erhielt an 2 Tagen pro Woche über 8 Wochen ein Yogatraining mittels Telerehabilitation. Die Sportler wurden mittels sportartspezifischer Tests zur Kraft und Stabilität der Rumpfmuskulatur, dem Back-Scratch-Test, dem Sit-and-Reach-Test, dem Flamingo-Balance-Test, dem Y-Balance-Test (unteres Viertel), dem Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test sowie dem SF-36 und dem Fragebogen zur Körperwahrnehmung beurteilt. Die Messungen wurden im Tennisclub vor und nach dem 8-wöchigen Training durchgeführt.

Ergebnisse

In der Yoga-Gruppe wurde ein signifikanter Anstieg der Rumpfkraft und -stabilität sowie im Sit-and-Reach-Test, Back-Scratch-Test, der Stabilität der oberen Extremität und beim Fragebogen zur Körperwahrnehmung festgestellt (p < 0,001). Die Ergebnisse des Flamingo-Balance-Tests und des Y-Balance-Tests fielen signifikant aus (p < 0,002). Verbesserungen zeigten sich beim SF-36-Score für Energieverlust und Erschöpfung, psychisches Wohlbefinden, soziale Funktion (p < 0,042), Schmerzen (p < 0,005) und allgemeine Gesundheit (p < 0,001). In der Kontrollgruppe war ein signifikanter Anstieg des mittleren Scores der Rumpfkraftmessung zu beobachten (p < 0,018). Der Sit-and-Reach-Test, der Flamingo-Test und der Fragebogen zur Körperwahrnehmung fielen nach der Intervention signifikant aus (p < 0,001). Bei den Unterparametern Schmerz und psychisches Wohlbefinden des SF-36 wurden signifikante Verbesserungen festgestellt (p < 0,042 bzw. p < 0,001).

Diskussion/Schlussfolgerung

Die Studie kam zu der Schlussfolgerung, dass Yoga-Training bei Anwendung mittels Telerehabilitation bei Tennisspielern im Alter von 6 bis 18 Jahren einen positiven Effekt auf die Rumpfkraft und -stabilisierung, die Parameter der körperlichen Fitness, die Lebensqualität und die Körperwahrnehmung hat.

Lessons From India: A Narrative Review of Integrating Yoga Within the US Healthcare System

The ancient practice of yoga has gained worldwide popularity as a way for people to improve their overall health and well-being. This manuscript reviews and examines the history of yoga, its physical and mental health benefits, its incorporation into the Indian healthcare system, and the public perception of yoga in India. Many initiatives for yoga exist, including promoting research on yoga, providing education and information on its benefits, and developing evidence-based standardized yoga therapy guidelines. With this in mind, this narrative review article explores the potential benefits of incorporating yoga into the United States (US) healthcare system and the possible challenges of doing so. It also provides valuable insights for policymakers and healthcare professionals.

Mind-Body Practice and Family Caregivers' Subjective Well-Being: Findings From the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) Study

Objectives: Informal caregiving has been associated with higher stress and lower levels of subjective well-being. Mind-body practices including yoga, tai chi, and Pilates also incorporate stress reducing activities. The current study aimed to examine the association between mind-body practice and subjective well-being among informal family caregivers. Methods: A sample of informal caregivers were identified in the Midlife in the United States study (N = 506, M ± SD_age = 56 ± 11, 67% women). We coded mind-body practice into three categories, including regular practice (participating in one or more of them "a lot" or "often"), irregular (participating "sometimes" and "rarely") and no practice ("never"). Subjective well-being was measured using the 5-item global life satisfaction scale and the 9-item mindfulness scale. We used multiple linear regression models to examine associations between mind-body practice and caregivers' subjective well-being, controlling for covariates of sociodemographic factors, health, functional status, and caregiving characteristics. Results: Regular practice was associated with both better mindfulness-related well-being (b = 2.26, p < .05) and better life satisfaction (b = 0.43, p < .05), after controlling for covariates. Discussion: Future research should examine whether there is a selection effect of caregivers with higher well-being being more likely to choose these activities, and/or if mind-body practices are effective non-pharmacological interventions to improve family caregivers' quality of life.

A randomized controlled trial of the influence of yoga for women with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder

Background

Survivors in motor vehicle accident (MVA) may have posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Yoga is a complementary approach for PTSD therapy.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial explored whether yoga intervention has effects on reducing the symptoms of PTSD in women survived in MVA. Participants (n = 94) were recruited and randomized into control group or yoga group. Participants attended 6 45-minuite yoga sessions in 12 weeks. Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS) and Impact of Events Scale-Revised (IES-R) were used to assess psychological distress.

Results

Post-intervention IES-R total score of yoga group was significantly lower than that of control group (p = 0.01). At both post-intervention and 3-months post intervention, the DASS-21 total scores of yoga group were both significantly lower than those of control group (p = 0.043, p = 0.024). Yoga group showed lower anxiety and depression level compared to control group at both post-intervention (p = 0.033, p < 0.001) and post-follow-up (p = 0.004, p = 0.035). Yoga group had lower levels of intrusion and avoidance compared to control group after intervention (p = 0.002, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Results illustrate that yoga intervention may alleviate anxiety and depression and improve the symptoms of PTSD in women with PTSD following MVA.

Yoga and meditation, an essential tool to alleviate stress and enhance immunity to emerging infections: A perspective on the effect of COVID-19 pandemic on students

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has negatively impacted the global healthcare and economic systems worldwide. The COVID-19 pandemic has also created an emotional and psychological pandemic among people of all ages irrespective of economic status and physical wellbeing. As a consequence of prolonged lockdowns, one of the most severely affected age groups globally is the young adults' group, especially students. Uncertainties in the academic calendar, restricted outdoor activities, and unusual daily routines during lockdowns led to higher incidences of stress, anxiety, and depression among students worldwide. In this review, we summarise the available evidence on the effect of lockdowns on students and discuss possible positive impacts of yoga and meditation on various psychological, emotional, and immunological parameters, which can significantly influence the general wellbeing and academic performance of students. Perspectives shared in the review will also bring awareness on how yoga and meditation could boost students' performance and assist them in maintaining physical and mental wellbeing during stressful conditions such as future epidemics and pandemics with novel infections. This information could help create better educational curriculums and healthy routines for students.

Effect of Yoga on Clinical Outcomes and Quality of Life in Patients With Vasovagal Syncope (LIVE-Yoga)

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to determine the impact of yoga as an adjunct to standard therapy versus standard therapy alone on the symptomatic burden in patients with recurrent vasovagal syncope (VVS).

BACKGROUND

There is a significant reduction in the quality of life (QoL) of patients with recurrent VVS. Existing management therapies have been largely ineffective. Recent trials have demonstrated the efficacy of yoga in diseases with autonomic imbalance, suggesting its possible utility in VVS.

METHODS

Patients with recurrent VVS were randomized to receive either a specialized yoga training program in addition to current guideline-based therapy (intervention arm, group 1) or current guideline-based therapy alone (control arm, group 2). The primary outcome was a composite of the number of episodes of syncope and presyncope at 12 months. Secondary outcomes included QoL assessment by World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Field questionnaire (WHOQoL-BREF) scores and Syncope Functional Status Questionnaire scores at 12 months, head up tilt test, and heart rate variability at 6 weeks.

RESULTS

A total of 55 patients underwent randomization. The mean number of syncopal or presyncopal events at 12 months was 0.7 ± 0.7 in the intervention arm compared to 2.52 ± 1.93 in the control arm (P < 0.01). In the intervention arm, 13 (43.3%) patients remained free of events versus 4 (16.0%) patients in the control arm (P = 0.02). QoL at 12 months showed significant improvement of all Syncope Functional Status Questionnaire scores and 2 domains of WHOQoL-BREF scores (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Yoga as adjunctive therapy is superior to standard therapy alone in reducing the symptomatic burden and improving QoL in patients with recurrent VVS.

Mind–Body Exercises for PTSD Symptoms, Depression, and Anxiety in Patients With PTSD: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objectives

This study aims to systematically analyze the effects of mind–body exercises on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, depression, and anxiety in patients with PTSD. Furthermore, it intends to provide scientific evidence-based exercise prescriptions.

Methods

Chinese (i.e., China National Knowledge Infrastructure, VIP Database for Chinese Technical Periodicals, and Wanfang) and English (i.e., Web of Science, PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and EMBASE) databases were used as data sources to search for studies on the effects of mind–body exercises on symptoms associated with patients with PTSD from January 1980 to November 2020. After a rigorous screening, 16 eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the meta-analysis.

Results

Mind–body exercises exerted a significant effect on PTSD symptoms [standard mean difference (SMD) = −0.41, 95% confidence interval (CI) −0.64 to −0.19, p < 0.001], depression (SMD = −0.35, 95% CI: −0.55 to −0.15, p < 0.001), and anxiety (SMD = −0.31, 95% CI: −0.74 to −0.12, p < 0.001) among patients with PTSD. Subgroup analysis demonstrated that 60–150 min per session for 8–16 weeks of mindfulness was more effective in improving symptoms in patients with PTSD under 45 years of age compared with other subgroups. For depression, 150–180 min of yoga exercises once per week was effective. For anxiety, the frequency, timing, duration, and type of mind–body exercises that are most effective in relieving anxiety in patients with PTSD cannot be determined at this time due to the limited number of eligible RCTs.

Conclusions

Mind–body exercises were found to be significantly effective in improving PTSD symptoms, depression, and anxiety in patients with PTSD. Therefore, they can be used as an adjunct to intervention for symptoms of patients with PTSD. However, this conclusion requires further confirmation through additional scientific and objective RCTs.

Systematic Review Registration:

Unique Identifier: INPLASY2020120072.

The immediate and durable effects of yoga and physical fitness exercises on stress

This study aimed to examine the effects of yoga and physical fitness exercises on stress and the underlying mechanisms. Participants: Healthy undergraduates from four yoga and four fitness classes participated in Study 1 (n = 191) and Study 2 (n = 143), respectively (in 2017 Fall). Methods: Study 1 evaluated the immediate effect (a 60-minute practice) while Study 2 evaluated the durable effect (a 12-week intervention). Results: Results showed that immediate stress reduction was more salient in the yoga group than that in the fitness group in Study 1. Yoga group had a greater increase in mindfulness, which predicted stress reduction. Similar observations were made in Study 2 showing the durable effect of yoga on stress reduction through mindfulness. Conclusions: Yoga intervention is better than fitness exercises in helping undergraduates cultivate mindfulness and reduce stress. These findings may guide future interventions in stress management in college students.

Impact of Prajñā yoga on cognition in adolescents with congenital and adventitious visual impairment

CONTEXT

Numerous scientific studies have investigated the impact of yoga on cognition in children and adults. However, fewer studies have assessed the impact of yogic practices on cognition in children and adolescents with visual impairment. Despite their keen intellectual abilities and advanced linguistic skills, teens with visual impairment often experience difficulties with cognitive control and behavioral regulation. Memory plays an important role in cognition. Besides storing information, memory is also used for recall, defined as the retrieval of information the brain has recently been exposed to, and recognition, defined as the ability to recognize or retrieve the information previously encountered and stored in the brain.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to observe the effectiveness of Prajñā Yoga on enhancing the cognition and verbal memory in adolescents with visual impairment. Degree of visual impairment and age of onset of visual impairment were considered while analyzing the study data.

DESIGN

An open-trial, single arm, pre-post study design was adopted. 273 adolescents with visual impairment were assessed across India using the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), at baseline (before the intervention), immediately after the intervention, and at 40 days after the intervention. RAVLT measures recall and recognition through verbal memory.

INTERVENTION

Prajñā Yoga (PY) or the Art of Living Intuition Program is a unique intervention, based on ancient techniques of Pranayama, Super Brain Yoga, and Meditation, taught to children & adolescents between the ages 5 and 17.

RESULTS

The mean scores for Recognition (p=0.011) and Immediate recall (p=0.011) improved significantly after PY for the entire study population, regardless of the degree of visual impairment, gender and age of onset. A significant improvement in mean scores for Delayed Recall was seen after 40 days of daily practice (p = 0.007).

Association between yoga, physiologic and psychologic health: A cross sectional study

PURPOSE

To compare markers of health associated with chronic diseases between yoga and non-yoga participants.

METHODS

30 participants were categorized as either: 1) "Yoga" engaging in yoga ≥2 times/week for ≥6 months, or 2) "Non-yoga" not engaging in yoga.

RESULTS

Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) scores were significantly different between the yoga and non-yoga groups (PSS: 8.0 vs. 17.5, respectively, p < 0.05; BDI-II: 1.0 vs. 5.5, respectively, p < 0.05). No significant differences were evident between groups for inflammatory markers nor Complex V of the mitochondrial electron transport chain. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate values differed between groups based on clinical cutoffs, with yoga participants categorized as normal (11.0 mm) and non-yoga above normal (21.5 mm).

CONCLUSION

This research supports that yoga participation is associated with lower PSS and BDI-II scores but does not support a relationship with markers of inflammation. Further research is warranted.

Pranayamas and Their Neurophysiological Effects

Introduction

The millenarian breathing exercises from Yoga, commonly called Pranayamas, are known to induce meditative states, reduce stress, and increase lung capacity. However, the physiological mechanisms by which these practices modulate the human nervous system still need to be unveiled.

Objectives

The aim of this work was to review studies describing the influence of breathing exercises on the brain/mind of humans.

Methodology

We reviewed articles written in English and published between 2008 and 2018. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were based on the PRISMA recommendations to filter articles from Science Direct, PubMed, and Virtual Health Library databases. Patient/Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome technique and Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews registration were also considered.

Results

From a total of 1588 articles, 14 attended the criteria. They were critically compared to each other and presented in a table divided into study; country; sample size; gender; age; objective; technique; outcome.

Discussion

In general, the 14 papers highlight the impact of yogic breathing techniques on emotional and cognitive performance.

Conclusion

In-depth studies focusing on specific aspects of the practices such as retentions, prolonged expiration, attention on fluid respiration, and abdominal/thoracic respiration should better elucidate the effects of Yogic Breathing Techniques (YBT).

Effects of yoga-related mind-body therapies on cognitive function in older adults: A systematic review with meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Considering dementia has no definite curative intervention available through modern medical management, alternative therapeutic symptomatic interventions are needed urgently. This systematic review with meta-analysis evaluated whether yoga-related practices, as a preventive mind-body therapy, is effective for the management of cognitive decline in older adults.

METHODS

Seven electronic databases (Abstracts in Social Gerontology, Age Line, CINAHL, PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched using specified inclusion criteria to identify original studies that investigated the effects of yoga-related mind-body therapies on cognitive function, in the context of aging. A meta-analysis was also carried out calculating the overall effect sizes, expressed as standardized mean differences (i.e., d).

RESULTS

Twelve studies, including 912 participants (73.9% female; 239 with and 673 without cognitive impairment) were selected for this review; eleven were randomized controlled trials. One study had a high risk of bias and was excluded from the meta-analysis. Studies involved a wide variety of yoga practices with a common focus on meditative postural exercises. Results revealed significant beneficial effects on memory (Cohen's d = 0.38), executive function (Cohen's d = 0.40), and attention and processing speed (Cohen's d = 0.33). No adverse effects were reported.

DISCUSSION

Yoga-related mind-body interventions for older adults appear to be safe, feasible, and effective alternative practice for maintenance of cognitive functions both in age- and disease-related cognitive decline. Practicing yoga can be a useful part of daily routine to maintain cognitive function in older adulthood. Suggestions for further research were discussed.

The effects of a 6-month moderate-intensity Hatha yoga-based training program on health-related fitness in middle-aged sedentary women: a randomized controlled study

BACKGROUND

There is paucity of data examining the effectiveness of long-term Hatha yoga-based (HY) programs focused on the health-related fitness (H-RF) of asymptomatic, sedentary women. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a 6-month HY-based training program on H-RF components in sedentary middle-aged women.

METHODS

Eighty sedentary women were randomly assigned into either the HY group (HYG) (N.=42) or the control group (CG) (N.=38). The 6-month HYG program involved a progressive series of Vinyasa Flow poses performed 3 times/week for 60 minutes (40 minutes within the exercise zone of 60-75% HR<inf>max</inf>). The CG participants did not undergo any physical training or education. Health-related fitness parameters included measures of pre- and post-training: body composition, muscular strength and maximal voluntary isometric torques of elbow flexors and knee extensors, cardio-respiratory fitness, lower back and hamstring flexibility and a static-dynamic balance.

RESULTS

Two-way mixed design ANOVA revealed significant main effects for all the indicators of H-RF. Tukey post-hoc tests confirmed that the HYG demonstrated significant improvements in every variable tested. Examples of the benefits achieved include (all P<.001): an average loss of 1.03 kg and a 4.82% decrease in body fat, 14.6% and 13.1% gains in isometric strength of the knee extensors and elbow flexors respectively, an increase in relative VO<inf>2max</inf> of 6.1% (33.12±5.30 to 35.14±4.82 mL/kg/min), a 4-cm or 10.4% increase in their MSAR, and an average improved Balance Index of 5.6 mm/s. Reversely, the CG showed non-significant changes in H-RF variables (all P>0.05; percent range from -1.4% to 1.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

By participating in a moderate-intensity 6-month HY-based training program, middle-aged women can significantly improve their HR-F status. The application of progressive target heart rate goals facilitated greater than expected improvements in cardio-respiratory fitness and improvements in body composition.

The Effect of Aromatherapy by Rose Essence on Anxiety and Physiological Indices of Conscious Patients Admitted at Intensive Care Units

Background: Anxiety in patients admitted at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is common and usually moderate or severe. Anxiety affects endocrine and physiological responses. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the effect of aromatherapy by rose essence on anxiety and physiological indices of conscious patients admitted at ICU. Methods: In this clinical trial, 60 conscious patients admitted at ICU wards in Ali Ibn Abi Talib Hospital of Rafsanjan were selected and randomly allocated into two groups of intervention and control. In the intervention group, three drops of 10% rose essence were poured on the gauze and placed 20 cm from the patients’ nose on their shirt, and the patients inhaled it for 20 minutes three times a day. In the control group, three drops of distilled water were used likewise. Data collection tools included Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and the demographic questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS V.18. Results: According to the results, in the intervention group, the systolic and diastolic blood pressure significantly increased (paired t-test, P < 0.05) in the second time after the intervention and significantly decreased (paired t-test, P < 0.05) in the third time. The mean oxygen saturation of arterial blood also significantly increased in the second time in this group after the intervention (paired t-test, P = 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in anxiety score before and after the intervention in each group. Conclusions: Although aromatherapy using rose essence was statistically significant on some of the physiological indices of conscious patients in ICU, these differences were not clinically significant.

Yoga as a Therapy for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

The aim of this state-of-the-art narrative review is to evaluate the current evidence about the effectiveness of yoga as therapy for IBS and explore its potential mechanisms of action. The current literature suggests yoga is effective and safe and may target multiple mechanisms involved in treatment of IBS. Evidence from randomized controlled trials identified yoga as more effective compared to pharmacological treatment and equally effective as dietary interventions or moderate-intensity walking. Improvements were seen in both physical health (IBS symptom severity, gastric motility, autonomic and somatic symptom scores, and physical functioning) and mental health outcomes (depression, anxiety, gastrointestinal-specific anxiety, and quality of life). Given favorable changes in IBS-related physical and mental health outcomes, preliminary data supports yoga as beneficial in this population. However, the relatively low-quality evidence resulting from heterogeneity of study designs, interventions, and outcome measures limit our ability to make specific recommendations about the use of yoga as therapy for patients with IBS.

Verbal Cuing Is Not the Path to Enlightenment. Psychological Effects of a 10-Session Hatha Yoga Practice

Verbal instructions provided during yoga classes can differ substantially. Yoga instructors might choose to focus on the physical aspects of yoga (e.g., by emphasizing the characteristics of the poses), or they might take a more spiritual approach (e.g., by mentioning energy flow and chakras). The present study investigated the effects of verbal cues during yoga practice on various psychological measures. Eighty-four female students (22.0 ± 3.80 years) participated in the study. Two groups attended a beginner level hatha yoga course in which physically identical exercise was accompanied by different verbal cues. The so-called "Sport group" (N = 27) received instructions referring primarily to the physical aspects of yoga practice, while the "Spiritual group" (N = 23) was additionally provided with philosophical and spiritual information. A control group (N = 34) did not receive any intervention. Mindfulness, body awareness, spirituality, and affect were assessed 1 week before and after the training. 2 × 3 mixed (time × intervention) ANOVAs did not show an interaction effect for any of the variables. However, when the two yoga groups were merged and compared to the control group, we found that spirituality increased, and negative affect decreased among yoga participants. In conclusion, yoga practice might influence psychological functioning through its physical components, independent of the style of verbal instructions provided.

Mind-body practices in U.S. adults: Prevalence and correlates

OBJECTIVES

Mind-body practices (MBP), such as Yoga or Tai-Chi, have increased in popularity in the past 25 years in the US. These activities may help promote a less sedentary lifestyle and may have positive effects on health. The objective of the present study is to understand the prevalence and trends of MBP in US adults and the factors associated with their use in a population-based adult lifespan sample.

METHODS

We used data from three waves of the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) survey (1995, 2005, and 2015), a population-based longitudinal study of community-dwelling adults. Only data from participants with valid observations across three waves (N = 2262) aged 24-74 years at baseline (M = 46; SD = 11) were used. We examined the prevalence of MBP, longitudinal patterns, and correlates of MBP use over 20 years.

RESULTS

Rates of MBP use were relatively stable over time in this sample, with 20%, 17%, and 18% of participants using MBP at wave 1, 2, and 3, respectively. A number of sociodemographic and health variables were independently related to frequency of MBP use over 20 years: Women, participants with higher levels of education, never married participants, and participants who suffered from multiple chronic health conditions were more likely to use MBP.

DISCUSSION

Our findings suggest that MBP may provide an opportunity for physical activity for individuals suffering from chronic health conditions. More research is needed to understand whether this, in turn, results in better health outcomes for these individuals.

Effectiveness of stress-relieving strategies in regulating patterns of cortisol secretion and promoting brain health

Stress leads to ill-health and disease, and with today's fast-pace western society, engaging in strategies to relieve stress is crucial for good health across the life-course. Activities such as focusing on positive characteristics, art/music therapies, mindfulness, yoga and engaging with nature and/or physical activity have been shown to reduce stress and enhance well-being. It is thought that patterns of cortisol secretion, which are regulated by the brain, are a key mediator of stress-disease and well-being-health links. Measurement of cortisol in saliva is a non-invasive and ecologically valid tool for detecting early changes in brain health, as well as evaluating the effectiveness of strategies in relieving stress and improving brain health as well as monitoring stress-related brain changes. This chapter will review the evidence that engaging in stress-relieving strategies promotes regulation and/or restoration of patterns of cortisol secretion. If such strategies are found to be effective in healthy populations, they could potentially inform ways of promoting brain health and the prevention or delay of clinical disorders involving disorders in the brain (e.g., Parkinson's disease) and symptoms experienced with such disorders. To inform this field of research, recommendations are provided for the use of salivary cortisol as a marker of early monitoring of brain health and effectiveness of stress-alleviating interventions.

Personalizing and Optimizing Preventive Intervention Models via a Translational Neuroscience Framework

A new generation of research, building upon developmental psychopathology (Luthar et al. 1997; Luthar et al. (Child Development, 71, 543-562, 2000)), provides evidence that individual differences in risk for behavioral health problems result from intrapersonal and environmental modulation of neurophysiologic and genetic substrates. This transdisciplinary model suggests that, in any given individual, the number of genetic variants implicated in high-risk behavior and the way in which they are assorted and ultimately suppressed or activated in the brain by experiential and contextual factors help to explain behavioral orientations. Implications are that behavioral health problems can be amplified or reduced based on characteristics of an individual and socio-contextual influences on those characteristics. This emerging research has extraordinary implications for the design of prevention programs that more precisely target the malleable mechanisms that underlie behavioral health problems and, hence, more effectively prevent behavioral problems and promote resilience. A detailed, theory-driven examination of all evidence-based interventions is called for to identify the active ingredients that specifically impact these underlying mechanisms. Such an approach will enhance the ability of preventive interventions to achieve effect sizes indicative of beneficial impacts for a greater number of recipients. This paper presents the significant implications of this collective knowledge base for the next generation of precision-based, prevention-focused personalized interventions.

Physiological Factors Which Influence Cognitive Performance in Military Personnel

OBJECTIVE

To identify and detail physiological factors that influence cognition in military personnel.

BACKGROUND

Maintenance of cognitive and task performance is important under several scenarios, none more so than in a military context. Personnel are prepared for and trained to tolerate many of the stressors they encounter; however, consideration of stressors typically extends only as far as the physical, psychological, and environmental requirements of a given task. While considering these factors certainly characterizes the broader picture, several physiological states and traits can influence cognition and thus, should also be considered.

METHOD

A systematic review of the electronic databases Medline (PubMed), EMBASE (Scopus), PsycINFO, and Web of Science was conducted from inception up to January 2019. Eligibility criteria included current military personnel, an outcome of cognition, and the assessment of a physiological factor.

RESULTS

The search returned 60,564 records, of which 60 were included in the review. Eleven studies examined the impact of demographic factors on cognition, 16 examined fatigue, 10 investigated nutrition, and 24 the impact of biological factors on cognitive performance.

CONCLUSION

Factors identified as having a positive impact on cognition include aerobic fitness, nutritional supplementation, and visual acuity. In contrast, factors identified as having a negative impact include fatigue arising from sustained operations, dehydration, undernutrition, and an exaggerated physiological stress response to a cognitive task or a stressor. A further subset of these factors was considered modifiable.

APPLICATION

The modifiable factors identified provide avenues for training and preparation to enhance cognition in ways previously unconsidered.

The Impact of a Daily Yoga Program for Women with Fibromyalgia

Background:

Fibromyalgia (FM) is characterized by widespread pain, sleep disturbance, negative affect, and stress and is notably difficult to treat. Individuals with FM have lower physical activity and endorse fears that exercise may worsen pain. Gentle daily yoga practice may allow a gradual increase in activity and positively impact many of these FM symptoms. This qualitative study investigated the impact of participation in a pilot trial of group and daily individual home yoga intervention on women with FM.

Materials and Methods:

Fifteen individuals participated in telephone interviews after participating in the yoga intervention, which included semi-structured questions to elicit insights and impressions of their experience. Responses were systematically coded and themes identified.

Results:

Five themes were identified: (1) physical/body perceptual changes, (2) practices affecting pain, (3) emotional changes, (4) practice motivators and barriers, and (5) group effect. Participants not only reported reductions in FM symptoms, including pain and stress, but also a positive impact on mood, sleep, and self-confidence.

Conclusions:

Participants enumerated both physical and psychological impact of starting yoga practice. Specific helpful poses and practices and important barriers were identified. Group practice and social connection with others with other FM patients was an important benefit to participants.

The Effects of Yoga on Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia: A Scoping Review

Yoga is an ancient mind body practice. Although yoga has been used as a complementary health approach for enhancing wellness and addressing a variety of health issues, little is known about the impact of yoga on cognitive functioning in adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. We conducted a literature review to examine the impact of yoga on persons with MCI and dementia. Eight studies were identified that reported on yoga as either the primary intervention or one component of a multi-component intervention in samples of persons with MCI or dementia. Results suggest that yoga may have beneficial effects on cognitive functioning, particularly on attention and verbal memory. Further, yoga may affect cognitive functioning through improved sleep, mood, and neural connectivity. There are a number of limitations of the existing studies, including a lack of intervention details, as well as variability in the frequency/duration and components of the yoga interventions. A further complicating issue is the role of various underlying etiologies of cognitive impairment. Despite these limitations, providers may consider recommending yoga to persons with MCI or dementia as a safe and potentially beneficial complementary health approach.

A Novel Non-invasive Effective Method for Potential Treatment of Degenerative Disc Disease: A Hypothesis

The pathophysiology of the intervertebral discs plays a significant role in the people's life quality. There is not adequate research done in the pathogenesis and treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration. Alternately, self-educated physiology offers a novel and noninvasive method to reverse the degenerated discs. In this single case study, report attempts have been made to highlight the effect of the self-educative physiology, on magnetic resonance imaging investigations, of progressive healing, on the degenerated intervertebral discs. Based on this novel method, an effort has been made to review literature on the degeneration of intervertebral discs and available mode of treatments and then to propose a hypothesis for the biochemical mechanisms of healing. The idea is that transforming growth factor-β1 from seminal plasma secretions may contribute to releasing the osteogenic protein- 1 which induces nucleus pulposus and annulus fibrosus cells in intervertebral discs for repairs. In addition, the patient's medical history is presented with background information.

"Smoking Does Not Go With Yoga:" A Qualitative Study of Women's Phenomenological Perceptions During Yoga and Smoking Cessation

INTRODUCTION

Smoking cessation is often accompanied by withdrawal symptoms, cigarette craving, increased negative affect, and increased experience of stress. Because yoga has been shown to reduce stress and negative affect, it may be an effective aid to smoking cessation. The objective of this study was to examine women's phenomenological experiences of vinyasa yoga as part of a smoking cessation program.

METHODS

Focus groups were conducted post-intervention with women (n = 20) who participated in a pilot randomized controlled trial of yoga as a complementary therapy for smoking cessation. The 8-week vinyasa yoga intervention included twice weekly 60-minute classes that involved breathing exercises, postures (asanas), and relaxation techniques. Focus groups were audio recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis focused on descriptions of yoga, breathing, and bodily sensations including cigarette craving.

RESULTS

Focus group participants described vinyasa yoga as physically challenging. Most reported deliberate use of yogic breathing to cope with cigarette craving and stress. Other perceived effects included relaxation and an increased sense of body awareness and wellbeing.

CONCLUSIONS

Participants viewed yoga as positive and potentially helpful for quitting smoking. Yoga may be an effective adjunct for smoking cessation.

Yoga Practice Reduces the Psychological Distress Levels of Prison Inmates

Background: Psychiatric ill-health is prevalent among prison inmates and often hampers their rehabilitation. Rehabilitation is crucial for reducing recidivistic offending. A few studies have presented evidence of the positive effect of yoga on the well-being of prison inmates. The conclusion of those previous studies that yoga is an effective method in the rehabilitation process of inmates, and deserves and requires further attention. Aims: The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of 10 weeks of yoga practice on the mental health profile, operationalized in the form of psychological distress, of inmates. Methods: One hundred and fifty-two volunteer participants (133 men; 19 women) were randomly placed in either of two groups: to participate in weekly 90-min yoga class (yoga group) or a weekly 90-min free-choice physical exercise (control group). The study period lasted for 10 weeks. Prior to and at the end of the study period the participants completed a battery of self-reported inventories, including the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI). Results: Physical activity (including yoga) significantly reduced the inmates' levels of psychological distress. Yoga practice improved all primary symptom dimensions and its positive effect on the obsessive-compulsive, paranoid ideation, and somatization symptom dimensions of the BSI stayed significant even when comparing with the control group. Conclusions: Yoga as a form of physical activity is effective for reducing psychological distress levels in prison inmates, with specific effect on symptoms such as suspicious and fearful thoughts about losing autonomy, memory problems, difficulty in making decisions, trouble concentrating, obsessive thought, and perception of bodily dysfunction.

The effect of movement-focused and breath-focused yoga practice on stress parameters and sustained attention: A randomized controlled pilot study

Yoga-based practices (YBP) typically involve a combination of movement sequences, conscious regulation of the breath, and techniques to engage attention. However, little is known about whether effects of YBP result from the synergistic combination of these components, or whether a subset may yield similar effects. In this study we compared the effect of a movement-focused practice and a breath-focused practice on stress parameters (perceived stress and salivary cortisol) and sustained attention (response inhibition) in yoga naïve university students. While participants of both programs showed a reduction in perceived stress and salivary cortisol, only the breath-focused group showed improvements in sustained attention. In addition, improvement in sustained attention was correlated with reduction in perceived stress but not with reduction in salivary cortisol. We discuss these findings in the context of a theoretical framework outlining bottom-up neurophysiological and top-down neurocognitive mechanisms hypothesized to be engaged by YBP.

A preliminary investigation of the effects of one yoga session for service recipients in a behavioral health intensive outpatient program

This was an investigation of the feasibility and effectiveness of a brief yoga intervention (one session) within an intensive outpatient program (IOP) for service recipients diagnosed with various psychiatric disorders. Participants (N = 26) completed the Toronto Mindfulness Scale (TMS) and the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS). Data was collected before and after one yoga session and follow-up data was collected via mail after discharge from the IOP. Scores indicated that negative affect significantly decreased and positive affect significantly increased from pre to post yoga session. Mindfulness scores significantly increased from pre to post yoga session. Though the results of this study supported that a yoga intervention is both feasible and effective within an IOP, collection of follow-up data after discharge via mail was not as feasible. The results of this preliminary investigation support a larger and longitudinal study to further examine yoga as a treatment modality with this clinical population.

Effect of traditional yoga, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy, on health related quality of life: a randomized controlled trial on patients on sick leave because of burnout

BACKGROUND

To explore if health related quality of life(HRQoL) increased after traditional yoga(TY), mindfulness based cognitive therapy(MBCT), or cognitive behavioral therapy(CBT), in patients on sick leave because of burnout.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trial, blinded, in ninety-four primary health care patients, block randomized to TY, MBCT or CBT (active control) between September 2007 and November 2009. Patients were living in the Stockholm metropolitan area, Sweden, were aged 18-65 years and were on 50%-100% sick leave. A group treatment for 20 weeks, three hours per week, with homework four hours per week. HRQoL was measured by the SWED-QUAL questionnaire, comprising 67 items grouped into 13 subscales, each with a separate index, and scores from 0 (worse) to 100 (best). SWED-QUAL covers aspects of physical and emotional well-being, cognitive function, sleep, general health and social and sexual functioning. Statistics: Wilcoxon's rank sum and Wilcoxon's sign rank tests, Bonett-Price for medians and confidence intervals, and Cohen's D.

RESULTS

Twenty-six patients in the TY (21 women), and 27 patients in both the MBCT (24 women) and in the CBT (25 women), were analyzed. Ten subscales in TY and seven subscales in MBCT and CBT showed improvements, p < 0.05, in several of the main domains affected in burnout, e.g. emotional well-being, physical well-being, cognitive function and sleep. The median improvement ranged from 0 to 27 points in TY, from 4 to 25 points in CBT and from 0 to 25 points in MBCT. The effect size was mainly medium or large. Comparison of treatments showed no statistical differences, but better effect (small) of both TY and MBCT compared to CBT. When comparing the effect of TY and MBCT, both showed a better effect (small) in two subscales each.

CONCLUSIONS

A 20 week group treatment with TY, CBT or MBCT had equal effects on HRQoL, and particularly on main domains affected in burnout. This indicates that TY, MBCT and CBT can be used as both treatment and prevention, to improve HRQoL in patients on sick leave because of burnout, reducing the risk of future morbidity.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

July 22, 2012, retrospectively registered. ClinicalTrails.gov NCT01168661 .

FUNDING

Stockholm County Council, grant 2003-5.

The effects of yoga on stress and psychological health among employees: an 8- and 16-week intervention study

BACKGROUND

The stresses of modern work life necessitate effective coping strategies that are accessible and affordable to the general public. Yoga has been found to reduce stress in clinical samples, but studies are needed to examine standard gym yoga classes among functional individuals.

OBJECTIVES

This study investigated the effects of 8- and 16-week gym yoga on stress and psychological health.

DESIGN AND METHOD

Ninety individuals reporting moderate-to-high stress were randomly assigned to 16 consecutive weeks of yoga, or to a waitlist crossover group who did not practice yoga for 8 weeks then practiced yoga for 8 weeks. Stress and psychological health variables were assessed at baseline, 8 weeks, and 16 weeks.

RESULTS

Significant reductions in stress and all psychological health measures were found within the Yoga group over 16 weeks. When compared to the control group, yoga practitioners showed significant decreases in stress, anxiety, and general psychological health, and significant increases in well-being. The group who did not practice yoga showed significant decreases in stress, anxiety, depression, and insomnia after they crossed over and practiced yoga for 8 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

Gym yoga appears to be effective for stress amelioration and promotion of psychological health among workers experiencing stress.

Personalizing and Optimizing Preventive Intervention Models via a Translational Neuroscience Framework

A new generation of research, building upon developmental psychopathology (Luthar et al. 1997; Luthar et al. (Child Development, 71, 543-562, 2000)), provides evidence that individual differences in risk for behavioral health problems result from intrapersonal and environmental modulation of neurophysiologic and genetic substrates. This transdisciplinary model suggests that, in any given individual, the number of genetic variants implicated in high-risk behavior and the way in which they are assorted and ultimately suppressed or activated in the brain by experiential and contextual factors help to explain behavioral orientations. Implications are that behavioral health problems can be amplified or reduced based on characteristics of an individual and socio-contextual influences on those characteristics. This emerging research has extraordinary implications for the design of prevention programs that more precisely target the malleable mechanisms that underlie behavioral health problems and, hence, more effectively prevent behavioral problems and promote resilience. A detailed, theory-driven examination of all evidence-based interventions is called for to identify the active ingredients that specifically impact these underlying mechanisms. Such an approach will enhance the ability of preventive interventions to achieve effect sizes indicative of beneficial impacts for a greater number of recipients. This paper presents the significant implications of this collective knowledge base for the next generation of precision-based, prevention-focused personalized interventions.

Men's Mental Health Promotion Interventions: A Scoping Review

There is an increasing need for mental health promotion strategies that effectively engage men. Although researchers have examined the effectiveness of diverse mental wellness interventions in male-dominated industries, and reviewed suicide prevention, early intervention, and health promotion interventions for boys and men, few have focused on sex-specific program effects. The purpose of this review was to (a) extend the previous reviews to examine the effectiveness of mental health promotion programs in males, and (b) evaluate the integration of gender-specific influences in the content and delivery of men's mental health promotion programs. A search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and EMBASE databases for articles published between January 2006 and December 2016 was conducted. Findings from the 25 included studies indicated that a variety of strategies offered within (9 studies) and outside (16 studies) the workplace show promise for promoting men's mental health. Although stress was a common area of focus (14 studies), the majority of studies targeted multiple outcomes, including some indicators of positive well-being such as self-efficacy, resilience, self-esteem, work performance, and happiness/quality of life. The majority of programs were offered to both men and women, and six studies explicitly integrated gender-related influences in male-specific programs in ways that recognized men's interests and preferences.

A yoga program for cognitive enhancement

Background

Recent studies suggest that yoga practice may improve cognitive functioning. Although preliminary data indicate that yoga improves working memory (WM), high-resolution information about the type of WM subconstructs, namely maintenance and manipulation, is not available. Furthermore, the association between cognitive enhancement and improved mindfulness as a result of yoga practice requires empirical examination. The aim of the present study is to assess the impact of a brief yoga program on WM maintenance, WM manipulation and attentive mindfulness.

Methods

Measures of WM (Digit Span Forward, Backward, and Sequencing, and Letter-Number Sequencing) were administered prior to and following 6 sessions of yoga (N = 43). Additionally, the Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale was administered to examine the potential impact of yoga practice on mindfulness, as well as the relationships among changes in WM and mindfulness.

Results

Analyses revealed significant improvement from pre- to post- training assessment on both maintenance WM (Digit Span Forward) and manipulation WM (Digit Span Backward and Letter-Number Sequencing). No change was found on Digit Span Sequencing. Improvement was also found on mindfulness scores. However, no correlation was observed between mindfulness and WM measures.

Conclusions

A 6-session yoga program was associated with improvement on manipulation and maintenance WM measures as well as enhanced mindfulness scores. Additional research is needed to understand the extent of yoga-related cognitive enhancement and mechanisms by which yoga may enhance cognition, ideally by utilizing randomized controlled trials and more comprehensive neuropsychological batteries.

Controlled Rhythmic Yogic Breathing as Complementary Treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Military Veterans: A Case Series

Background: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a cluster of symptoms in which a person persistently relives a traumatic event, through recurring thoughts, nightmares, and flashbacks for at least 1 month or more. There are various behavioral and medical treatment options for PTSD. Mind-body techniques, such as biofeedback and breathing-based stress reduction, have shown some promise in the treatment of PTSD symptoms. The purpose of this case series was to examine controlled yogic breathing as a complementary treatment of PTSD in military veterans. A retrospective review was performed from 2012 to 2016 in 3 cases, and participant demographics, member statements, and PTSD Checklist-Military Version (PCL-M) scores, pre-and-post course, were extracted. Cases: Three military veterans with PTSD participated in a standardized 5-day course designed to teach them controlled rhythmic yogic breathing exercises. Results: Subjectively, all 3 participants reported a decrease in PTSD symptoms after the course. Objectively, all 3 participants had a reduction in their overall PCL-M scores after the course. Among all 3 participants, there were score decreases in the Avoidance and Increased Arousal categories. The most dramatic improvement occurred in the participant with the most severe symptoms. Conclusions: Controlled yogic breathing, specifically Sudarshan Kriya (SKY), appeared to reduce the symptoms of PTSD in 3 veterans of the Armed Services.

Effect of Yoga on Psychological Functioning of Nursing Students: A Randomized Wait List Control Trial

INTRODUCTION

Nursing students experience considerable amount of stress to meet their professional demands. Yoga is an effective practice to reduce stress and improve psychological well being. However, improvement in psychological well being aids in stress management.

AIM

To evaluate the effectiveness of eight week yoga intervention on psychological functioning of nursing students.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a randomised Wait List Control (WLC) trial, we recruited total 100 students from Kempegowda Institute of Nursing, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India and randomized them into two groups (yoga=50 and WLC=50 students). The following instruments were used to collect the data, Freiburg Mindfulness Inventory (FMI), Self-Compassion Scale- Short Form (SCS-SF), Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), Jefferson Scale of Empathy HPS-Version (JSE-HPS), and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Data was analysed using Repeated Measures Analysis of Variance (RM-ANOVA) followed by post-hoc Bonferroni correction for all psychological variables.

RESULTS

The results of our study report that eight week yoga intervention was significantly effective in improving self compassion and mindfulness among nursing students in experimental group than compared to WLC group. Even though there were improvements in resilience, satisfaction in life and perceived stress, results were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

Overall, results of the present study have demonstrated impact of eight week yoga intervention on the psychological functioning of nursing students. Yoga intervention can be inculcated in the nursing education to meet demands of the profession.

Effect of a 16-week Bikram yoga program on heart rate variability and associated cardiovascular disease risk factors in stressed and sedentary adults: A randomized controlled trial

Background

Chronic activation of the stress-response can contribute to cardiovascular disease risk, particularly in sedentary individuals. This study investigated the effect of a Bikram yoga intervention on the high frequency power component of heart rate variability (HRV) and associated cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors (i.e. additional domains of HRV, hemodynamic, hematologic, anthropometric and body composition outcome measures) in stressed and sedentary adults.

Methods

Eligible adults were randomized to an experimental group (n = 29) or a no treatment control group (n = 34). Experimental group participants were instructed to attend three to five supervised Bikram yoga classes per week for 16 weeks at local studios. Outcome measures were assessed at baseline (week 0) and completion (week 17).

Results

Sixty-three adults (37.2 ± 10.8 years, 79% women) were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. The experimental group attended 27 ± 18 classes. Analyses of covariance revealed no significant change in the high-frequency component of HRV (p = 0.912, partial η² = 0.000) or in any secondary outcome measure between groups over time. However, regression analyses revealed that higher attendance in the experimental group was associated with significant reductions in diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.039; partial η² = 0.154), body fat percentage (p = 0.001, partial η² = 0.379), fat mass (p = 0.003, partial η² = 0.294) and body mass index (p = 0.05, partial η² = 0.139).

Conclusions

A 16-week Bikram yoga program did not increase the high frequency power component of HRV or any other CVD risk factors investigated. As revealed by post hoc analyses, low adherence likely contributed to the null effects. Future studies are required to address barriers to adherence to better elucidate the dose-response effects of Bikram yoga practice as a medium to lower stress-related CVD risk.

Trial registration

Retrospectively registered with Australia New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616000867493. Registered 04 July 2016.

Yoga in Correctional Settings: A Randomized Controlled Study

BACKGROUND

The effect of yoga in the reduction of depressive symptoms, anxiety, stress, anger as well as in the increased ability of behavioral control has been shown. These effects of yoga are highly relevant for prison inmates who often have poor mental health and low impulse control. While it has been shown that yoga and meditation can be effective in improving subjective well-being, mental health, and executive functioning within prison populations, only a limited number of studies have proved this, using randomized controlled settings.

METHODS

A total of 152 participants from nine Swedish correctional facilities were randomly assigned to a 10-week yoga group (one class a week; N = 77) or a control group (N = 75). Before and after the intervention period, participants answered questionnaires measuring stress, aggression, affective states, sleep quality, and psychological well-being and completed a computerized test measuring attention and impulsivity.

RESULTS

After the intervention period, significant improvements were found on 13 of the 16 variables within the yoga group (e.g., less perceived stress, better sleep quality, an increased psychological and emotional well-being, less aggressive, and antisocial behavior) and on two within the control group. Compared to the control group, yoga class participants reported significantly improved emotional well-being and less antisocial behavior after 10 weeks of yoga. They also showed improved performance on the computerized test that measures attention and impulse control.

CONCLUSION

It can be concluded that the yoga practiced in Swedish correctional facilities has positive effects on inmates' well-being and on considerable risk factors associated with recidivism, such as impulsivity and antisocial behavior. Accordingly, the results show that yoga practice can play an important part in the rehabilitation of prison inmates.

Longitudinal and Immediate Effect of Kundalini Yoga on Salivary Levels of Cortisol and Activity of Alpha-Amylase and Its Effect on Perceived Stress

Context:

Stress is defined as an alteration of an organism's balance in response to a demand perceived from the environment. Diverse methods exist to evaluate physiological response. A noninvasive method is salivary measurement of cortisol and alpha-amylase. A growing body of evidence suggests that the regular practice of Yoga would be an effective treatment for stress.

Aims:

To determine the Kundalini Yoga (KY) effect, immediate and after 3 months of regular practice, on the perception of psychological stress and the salivary levels of cortisol and alpha-amylase activity.

Settings and Design:

To determine the psychological perceived stress, levels of cortisol and alpha-amylase activity in saliva, and compare between the participants to KY classes performed for 3 months and a group that does not practice any type of yoga.

Subjects and Methods:

The total sample consisted of 26 people between 18 and 45-year-old; 13 taking part in KY classes given at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Chile and 13 controls. Salivary samples were collected, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed to quantify cortisol and kinetic reaction test was made to determine alpha-amylase activity. Perceived Stress Scale was applied at the beginning and at the end of the intervention.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Statistical analysis was applied using Stata v11.1 software. Shapiro–Wilk test was used to determine data distribution. The paired analysis was fulfilled by t-test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test. T-test or Mann–Whitney's test was applied to compare longitudinal data. A statistical significance was considered when P < 0.05.

Results:

KY practice had an immediate effect on salivary cortisol. The activity of alpha-amylase did not show significant changes. A significant decrease of perceived stress in the study group was found.

Conclusions:

KY practice shows an immediate effect on salivary cortisol levels and on perceived stress after 3 months of practice.

Impact of Yoga on Periodontal Disease and Stress Management

Background

Yoga is considered to be one of the most important, effective, and valuable tools available for man to overcome various physical and psychological problems. Stress contributes significantly to the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases; hence, it becomes important to reduce the level of stress for prevention and management of diseases.

Aims and Objectives

The present study was aimed: (1) To understand and analyze the possibilities of employing yogic practices in the treatment of periodontal disease along with conventional dental therapy, (2) to understand the effect of stress on periodontal treatment outcome, (3) to evaluate the efficacy of yoga in the management of periodontal disease with reference to stress.

Materials and Methods

An outpatient department-based parallel group randomized study was performed with standard treatment for periodontal disease yoga therapy as Group II and only standard treatment as Group I. Periodontal health status was recorded using indices of modified plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BOP), probing depth, and clinical attachment loss (CAL). The Cohen's perceived stress questionnaire was also used to determine stress severity. The yogic intervention consists of lectures and practical sessions on asanas, pranayama, kriyas, and meditation.

Results

Repeated measure analysis of variance revealed a significant difference (P < 0.001) in all the outcome variables with respect to time in both groups. It was observed that mean PI score reduced by 1.35 in Group II as compared to 0.54 in Group I, mean probing pocket depth reduced by 1.60 in Group II as compared to only 0.68 in Group I, and mean CAL score reduced by 1.60 in Group II as compared to 0.68 in Group I. Similarly, Cohen's perceived stress scale score also reduced by 18.76 points in Group II as compared to only 2.58 points in Group I, BOP also shows better improvement in Group II with a reduction of 0.68 as compared to reduction of only 0.08 in Group I. The results obtained ascertained the role of yoga in stress reduction in periodontal disease.

Conclusion

Although yoga does not play a direct role in improving periodontal disease, it accelerates the treatment outcomes by combating the stress which is a major factor affecting the treatment of periodontal disease.

Trauma Sensitive Yoga as a complementary treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder: A Qualitative Descriptive analysis

Research on Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and chronic childhood abuse has revealed that traditional trauma treatments often fail to fully address the complicated symptom presentation, including the somatic complaints, loss of awareness of one's emotional and physical being in the present moment, and overall lack of integration between the self and the body. The mindfulness-based intervention of hatha yoga shows promise as a complementary treatment, and focuses on personal growth in addition to symptom reduction. This qualitative study explored the experiences of thirty-one adult women with PTSD related to chronic childhood trauma who participated in a 10-week Trauma Sensitive Yoga class, specifically examining perceived changes in symptoms and personal growth. Five themes were identified that reflect participants' feelings of Gratitude and compassion, Relatedness, Acceptance, Centeredness, and Empowerment. Results and implications for research and clinical work are presented.

Evaluating Emotional Well-Being after a Short-Term Traditional Yoga Practice Approach in Yoga Practitioners with an Existing Western-Type Yoga Practice

The purpose of the present study was to examine the influence of a traditional yoga practice approach (morning daily practice, TY) compared to that of a Western yoga practice approach (once-twice weekly, evening practice, WY) on determinants of emotional well-being. To that end, in a pre/posttest between-subject design, measures of positive (PA) and negative affect (NA), mindfulness, perceived stress, and arousal states were taken in 24 healthy participants (20 women; mean age: 30.5, SD = 8.1 years) with an already existing WY practice, who either maintained WY or underwent a 2-week, five-times-per-week morning practice (TY). While WY participants maintained baseline values for all measures taken, TY participants showed significant beneficial changes for PA, NA, and mindfulness and a trend for improved ability to cope with stress at the completion of the intervention. Furthermore, TY participants displayed decreased subjective energy and energetic arousal. Altogether, findings indicate that the 2-week TY is beneficial over WY for improving perceived emotional well-being. The present findings (1) undermine and inspire a careful consideration and utilization of yoga practice approach to elicit the best benefits for emotional well-being and (2) support yoga as an evidence-based practice among healthy yoga practitioners.

Hatha Yoga practice decreases menopause symptoms and improves quality of life: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

Yoga practice includes a group of specific psychophysical techniques. Although previous studies showed beneficial effects of yoga for health and rehabilitation, improving quality of life, there are few studies on the possible therapeutic application of yoga during the climacteric period. The purpose of this study was to investigate the psychophysiological effects of Hatha Yoga regular practice in post-menopausal women.

METHODS

Eighty-eight post-menopausal women volunteered for this 12-week trial. They were randomly assigned to one of three groups: control (no intervention), exercise, and yoga. Questionnaires were applied in order to evaluate climacteric syndrome (Menopause Rating Scale), stress (Lipp Stress Symptom Inventory), quality of life (Brief World Health Organization Quality of Life), depression (Beck Depression Inventory) and anxiety (State/Trait Anxiety Inventories). Physiological changes were evaluated through hormone levels (cortisol, FSH, LH, progesterone and estradiol).

RESULTS

At 12 weeks, yoga practitioners showed statistically lower scores for menopausal symptoms, stress levels and depression symptoms, as well as significantly higher scores in quality of life when compared to control and exercise groups. Only control group presented a significant increase in cortisol levels. The yoga and exercise groups showed decreased levels of FSH and LH when compared to control group.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that yoga promotes positive psychophysiological changes in post-menopausal women and may be applied as a complementary therapy towards this population.

Yoga Training in Junior Primary School-Aged Children Has an Impact on Physical Self-Perceptions and Problem-Related Behavior

The present pilot study investigated the effects of yoga training, as compared to physical skill training, on motor and executive function, physical self-concept, and anxiety-related behavior in junior primary school-aged children. Twenty-four participants with a mean age of 8.4 (±1.4) years completed either yoga or physical skill training twice a week for 6 weeks outside of regular school class time. Both forms of training were delivered in an individualized and child-oriented manner. The type of training did not result in any significant differences in movement and executive function outcomes. In terms of physical self-concept, significant group differences were revealed only for perceived movement speed such that yoga training resulted in perceptions of being slower while physical skill training resulted in perceptions of moving faster. Analysis of anxiety related outcomes revealed significant group effects only for avoidance behavior and coping strategies. Avoidance behavior increased following yoga training, but decreased following physical skill training. In addition, following yoga training, children showed an increased use of divergent coping strategies when facing problematic situations while after physical skill training children demonstrated a decrease in use of divergent coping strategies. Changes in overall physical self-concept scores were not significantly correlated with changes in avoidance behavior following yoga training. In contrast, following physical skill training increased physical self-concept was significantly correlated with decreases in avoidance behavior. In sum, exposure to yoga or physical skill training appears to result in distinct effects for specific domains of physical self-concept and anxiety-related behavior. Further studies with larger samples and more rigorous methodologies are required to further investigate the effects reported here. With respect to future studies, we address potential research questions and specific features associated with the investigation of the effects of yoga in a sample of school-aged children.