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The aim of this study was to determine factors associated with participation of community-dwelling older Australians (≥65 years) in the Exercise Right for Active Ageing program, consisting of 12 low- to moderate-intensity group exercise classes, delivered weekly, in person or online, by accredited exercise scientists and physiologists across Australia. Out of 6,949 participants recruited, 6,626 (95%) attended one or more classes and were included in the primary analysis, and 49% of participants attended all 12 classes. Factors associated with higher class attendance included participation in yoga/flexibility/mobility classes, attendance at a free trial class (adjusted incidence rate ratio [95% confidence interval]: 1.05 [1.03, 1.08]), and attending online classes (1.19 [1.11, 1.26]). Factors associated with lower class attendance included state of residence, living in inner regional areas (0.95 [0.93, 0.98]), and having two or more comorbidities (0.97 [0.95, 0.99]). High class attendance suggests that the Exercise Right for Active Ageing program was well received by older Australians, particularly in states less impacted by COVID-19 lockdowns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exercise that targets balance and strength is proven to prevent falls in older age. The Successful AGEing yoga trial is the first large randomized controlled trial to assess the impact of yoga on falls in people aged ≥60 years. We conducted a realist process evaluation to explain the strong participant engagement observed using interviews (21 participants and three yoga instructors) and focus groups (12 participants and four yoga instructors). Results showed that relaxation, breathing, and yoga's mind–body connection created a satisfying internal focus on bodily sensation which was valued by participants. The mechanisms of mindfulness and embodiment appeared to facilitate this. Mindfulness and embodiment are also linked to, and enhance engagement with, other forms of physical activity. By focusing creatively on these mechanisms, we can develop a range of programs that target improvements in physical and mental health (including reducing falls and fear of falls) and appeal to older people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that significantly impact the social and economic burden of mental ill health in Australia. Best practice treatment for eating disorders includes a multi-axial approach, including medical, psychiatric, and psychological approaches. More recently, complementary and alternative therapy approaches, such as yoga, are used to support eating disorder recovery. Methods: This scoping review identified and examined current research exploring the use of yoga alongside psychological approaches for the treatment and management of eating disorders across the lifespan. Results: Results highlighted the lack of available research, with only four studies identified. Three of these studies piloted programs and identified promising results with a reduction of eating disorder symptomatology. However, these results remain tentative due to methodological limitations and the overall lack of available evidence. In the future, researchers are encouraged to clearly articulate the theoretical concepts that underpin their yoga programs and focus on adequately powered and designed trials, such as RCTs, to accurately compare treatment effects between interventions combining yoga with psychological interventions and standard psychological treatment. Qualitative enquiry is also recommended to provide further insights regarding what makes interventions successful. Conclusions: Current evidence suggests further guidance and pragmatic recommendations to guide researchers and clinicians alike are required, ultimately improving outcomes for people experiencing an eating disorder across the lifespan. Plain English summary: Yoga is commonly used as an additional therapy in eating disorder services. This research review aimed to identify studies that reported on how yoga was added to psychology approaches in eating disorder services. Only four studies have been published where yoga was used with psychological approaches for the treatment of eating disorders. The four studies showed yoga was overall a helpful addition. Consistent with various yoga and psychological approaches, there were differences in how each study incorporated yoga into treatment and their rationale for its inclusion. This study highlights the gaps regarding what we understand about how yoga can be a helpful addition to psychological approaches and makes recommendations for how studies in the future should explain and report the use of yoga. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Yoga is a mind-body exercise typically done in groups in person, but this delivery method can be inconvenient, inaccessible, and costly. Effective online programs may increase access to exercise for knee osteoarthritis.Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of an unsupervised 12-week online yoga program.Design: Two-group superiority randomized trial. (Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12620000012976).Setting: Community.Participants: 212 adults with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis.Intervention: Both groups received online osteoarthritis information (control). The yoga group also received access to an unsupervised online yoga program delivered via prerecorded videos over 12 weeks (1 video per week, with each session to be performed 3 times per week), with optional continuation thereafter.Measurements: Primary outcomes were changes in knee pain during walking (0 to 10 on a numerical rating scale) and physical function (0 to 68 on the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index) at 12 weeks (primary time point) and 24 weeks, analyzed using mixed-effects linear regression models. Secondary outcomes were self-reported overall knee pain, stiffness, depression, anxiety, stress, global change, quality of life, self-efficacy, fear of movement, and balance confidence. Adverse events were also collected.Results: A total of 195 (92%) and 189 (89%) participants provided 12- and 24-week primary outcomes, respectively. Compared with control at 12 weeks, yoga improved function (between-group mean difference in change, -4.0 [95% CI, -6.8 to -1.3]) but not knee pain during walking (between-group mean difference in change, -0.6 [CI, -1.2 to 0.1]), with more yoga participants than control participants achieving the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for both outcomes. At 12 weeks, knee stiffness, quality of life, and arthritis self-efficacy improved more with yoga than the control intervention. Benefits were not maintained at 24 weeks. Adverse events were minor.Limitation: Participants were unblinded.Conclusion: Compared with online education, an unsupervised online yoga program improved physical function but not knee pain at 12 weeks in people with knee osteoarthritis, although the improvement did not reach the MCID and was not sustained at 24 weeks.Primary Funding Source: National Health and Medical Research Council and Centres of Research Excellence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Stage IV colorectal cancer is a highly challenging condition to treat, with 5-year survival rates of 13% in Australia, improving to 40% for those patients with locally recurrent rectal cancer who are suitable for total neoadjuvant therapy and pelvic exenterative surgery. This study reports a unique case of a patient with Stage IV locally recurrent rectal cancer (LRRC), who designed and implemented a holistic integrative oncology intervention., Case Presentation: The patient was 59-years-old when diagnosed with Stage IV locally recurrent rectal cancer, and referred to a highly specialised centre for colorectal cancer care at a tertiary teaching hospital in Sydney, Australia. Treatment included chemo/radiotherapy, liver resection and posterior pelvic exenteration surgery. The patient's background as a health researcher and clinician optimised her ability to design and implement an integrative oncology model of care, including yoga, mindfulness, Buddhist meditation and study, social connection, exercise, psychotherapeutic and nutritional support. This paper describes these mind-body practices and lifestyle modifications and outlines her experiences and outcomes at each stage of her extensive and radical treatment., Conclusion: This case provides a unique perspective into how the integration of mind-body practices and lifestyle modifications with conventional treatment can support those living with colorectal cancer., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The article highlights several research studies about the natural medicine. Topics mentioned include the effectiveness of Dimu Ningshen in the management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, the meta-analysis of traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of COVID-19, and the inhibition of virulence patterns of Candida spp by origanum vulgare L essential oil.

Introduction: During COVID-19 restrictions, yoga classes transitioned to online delivery. This report compares the perceived benefits and barriers to online and in-person yoga and determine the preferred format. A secondary aim was to compare how well each format was perceived to produce common benefits of yoga practice. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional online survey of Australian participants. Results: In-person yoga scored highest for providing mental health/mood benefits, physical satisfaction, and feeling energized. Online yoga scored highest for convenience, mental health/mood benefits, and affordability (initial N = 156; follow-up N = 55). Conclusion: Online yoga was acceptable and perceived to provide improved mental health and mood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Despite its demonstrated benefits, cardiac rehabilitation (CR) attendance, and completion is suboptimal, particularly in women. The aims of this study were (i) to develop and pilot test a women-only yoga-based CR programme (the Women's Yoga CR Programme; WYCRP); (ii) to investigate programme acceptability; and (iii) to investigate attendance and completion of the WYCRP and continuation to Phase III community-based CR. Methods and results Women eligible for CR at a tertiary hospital in Melbourne, Australia were recruited. Over a 6-month period in 2019, they were offered the WYCRP or usual CR. The WYCRP involved attendance at a 1-h yoga session following the usual 1-h mixed-sex education session, over a 7-week period. Participants completed pre- and post-programme questionnaires and attended focus groups to assess programme acceptability. Rates of attendance, completion, and continuation for the WYCRP were recorded and compared to those for the standard CR programme offered in 2018. In total, 27 women were eligible for the study and attended the initial CR assessment. Of those, 22 (81%) attended the WYCRP, 1 (4%) attended usual CR, and 4 (15%) did not attend CR. Ratings of programme acceptability were consistently positive; qualitative comments highlighted both physical and emotional benefits. While attendance at the WYCRP was not significantly higher than for usual CR the previous year (81% vs. 76%; P = 0.40), CR completion, and continuation were (95% vs. 56%; P = 0.02, and 72% vs. 12%; P < 0.001, respectively). Conclusion This pilot study has demonstrated that women-only yoga-based CR is appealing to women and can improve women's CR completion and continuation. These preliminary findings support further development of women-only and yoga-based CR options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yoga is increasing in popularity. As a holistic practice, it is being applied and researched as a healing modality for physical ailments, assisting with mental health issues, and addressing traumatic symptoms. However, little is known about how social workers understand and include Yoga in their personal lives or professional practice. As part of a larger narrative study, practitioners in an Australian regional centre were asked: "What, if any, impact do embodied practices like Yoga have on your experience and your clients' experience?" This paper explores the stories told by three of the practitioners interviewed both individually and in focus groups. The dominant themes that emerged highlight that: a personal Yoga practice can be varied; the impact it has on professional outcomes is difficult to quantify; there is a lack of theoretical discussion about the body and embodied experience in social work; the challenges associated with introducing Yoga into social work practice are complex. Embodied practices such as Yoga provide social workers opportunities to increase self-awareness, their capacity to engage with clients and self-care. Theoretical understandings of the body and embodiment need to be better articulated in social work if embodied practices like Yoga are to be included in the professional conversation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence of prospective associations between participation in sports and recreational activities (SRAs) and health outcomes at the population level is scarce. We investigated the associations between participation in SRAs and 6‐year incidence of hypertension, diabetes, and obesity in a cohort of mid‐age Australian adults. We analyzed data from the HABITAT study (n = 8784), a cohort of adults aged 40+ years living in Brisbane, Australia. Mail surveys in 2007, 2009, 2011, and 2013 were used to collect data on participation in 11 SRAs in the past 12 months, as well as self‐reported hypertension, diabetes, height, and weight. Obesity was defined as BMI ≥ 30.0 kg/m2. Logistic generalized estimating equation models with a 2‐year lag were used. Participation in SRAs in 2007, 2009, and 2011 was matched with outcomes measured in 2009, 2011, and 2013. From 2007 to 2013, the cumulative incidence of hypertension, diabetes, and obesity was 14.9%, 3.2%, and 11%, respectively. Running, tennis, team sports, exercise classes, and resistance training were associated with reduced odds of hypertension. Running, cycling, resistance training, and yoga/tai chi were associated with reduced odds of diabetes. Cycling, tennis, home‐based exercises, resistance training, and yoga/tai chi were associated with lower odds of obesity. Participation in SRAs was associated with lower incidence of hypertension, diabetes, and obesity in mid‐age adults over six years. These findings support current efforts to promote wider and continuing participation in SRAs at this life stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article provides a list of international conferences scheduled for March 2024 in various locations around the world.

Background: Endometriosis has a significant negative impact on the lives of women, and current medical treatments often do not give sufficient pain relief or have intolerable side effects for many women. The majority of women with primary dysmenorrhea use self-management strategies (including self-care techniques or lifestyle choices) to help manage period related symptoms, but little is known about self-management in women with endometriosis. The aim of this survey was to determine the prevalence of use, safety, and self-rated effectiveness of common forms of self-management. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was distributed via social media using endometriosis support and advocacy groups in Australia between October and December 2017. Women were eligible to answer the survey if they were 18–45, lived in Australia, and had a confirmed diagnosis of endometriosis. Survey questions covered the types of self-management used, improvements in symptoms or reduction in medication, and safety. Results: Four hundred and eighty-four valid responses were received. Self-management strategies, consisting of self-care or lifestyle choices, were very common (76%) amongst women with endometriosis. The most common forms used were heat (70%), rest (68%), and meditation or breathing exercises (47%). Cannabis, heat, hemp/CBD oil, and dietary changes were the most highly rated in terms of self-reported effectiveness in pain reduction (with mean effectiveness of 7.6, 6.52, 6.33, and 6.39, respectively, on a 10-point scale). Physical interventions such as yoga/Pilates, stretching, and exercise were rated as being less effective. Adverse events were common, especially with using alcohol (53.8%) and exercise (34.2%). Conclusions: Self-management was very commonly used by women with endometriosis and form an important part of self-management. Women using cannabis reported the highest self-rated effectiveness. Women with endometriosis have unique needs compared to women with primary dysmenorrhea, and therefore any self-management strategies, especially those that are physical in nature, need to be considered in light of the potential for 'flare ups'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers news briefs on alternative therapy research in Australia as of December 2018. Acupuncture can be used as adjunctive therapy for improved nutrition in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Herbal dietary supplements can be safely used for the long term in adults with prehypertension and stage 1 hypertension. Footwear habits are important for motor skills development during childhood and adolescence.

Yoga is becoming increasingly popular in Western countries, particularly for maintaining health and managing chronic noncommunicable diseases. Yoga providers, including yoga teachers, yoga therapists, and healthcare workers using yoga in clinical practice, are vital in facilitating group and personalized yoga sessions. This article aims to meet an unmet need to profile the sociodemographic and practice characteristics of yoga providers in Australia. A workforce survey was distributed electronically to yoga providers throughout Australia via the Practitioner Research and Collaboration Initiative (PRACI). The yoga providers' sociodemographic and practice characteristics, professional qualifications, and practice interests reported in the survey were analyzed. The study reveals a predominantly female, middle-aged, and tertiary-educated workforce. The yoga providers considered themselves group educators offering complementary and integrative health services. Typically, they had worked part-time as a solo provider for more than 10 years since acquiring their first yoga qualification. This study represents the first exploration of the Australian yoga provider workforce on a national level. It suggests that some Australian yoga providers are highly qualified professionals integrating with healthcare modalities in education and practice. The landscape of yoga providers in Australia needs further investigation.

Objective: To clarify the effect of programmed exercise (PE), performed for at least six weeks, on perceived stress (PS) in middle aged and old women.Methods: A structured search was carried out in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scielo, Web of Science and Scopus, from database inception through January 10, 2018, without language restriction. The US, UK, and Australian clinical trials databases were also searched. The search included a combination of the terms "programmed exercise", "perceived stress", "menopausal women" and "randomized controlled trial" (RCTs). PE was classified according to duration as "mid-term exercise intervention" (MTEI; mean duration 6 months), and "long-term exercise intervention" (LTEI; mean duration 12 months). Mean ± standard deviations of changes in PS scores, as assessed with different questionnaires, were calculated as standardized mean differences (SMDs) and used as effect size for meta-analysis. SMDs of PS after intervention were pooled using a random-effects model. Study quality and bias risk were assessed with the Cochrane tool.Results: Five RCTs that studied midlife and older women (mean age 47.0 ± 1.7 years minimum to 71.8 ± 5.6 maximum) were included in the meta-analysis. There was no significant effect of PE on PS score (SMD: -0.16; 95% CI: -0.43 to 0.11). In subgroup analyses, there was no significant effect of PE on PS with mid-term interventions (SMD: - 0.17; 95% CI: -0.59 to 0.25) nor with long-term interventions (SMD: -0.02; 95% CI: -0.42 to 0.38) as compared with controls.Conclusion: PE of low to moderate intensity does not improve PS in midlife and older women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To examine the relationship between yoga/meditation practice and health behavior in Australian women.Methods: Women aged 19-25years, 31-36years, and 62-67years from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) were surveyed regarding smoking, alcohol or drug use, physical activity and dietary behavior; and whether they practiced yoga/meditation on a regular basis. Associations of health behaviors with yoga/meditation practice were analyzed using multiple logistic regression modelling.Results: 11,344, 8200, and 9151 women aged 19-25years, 31-36years, and 62-67years, respectively, were included of which 29.0%, 21.7%, and 20.7%, respectively, practiced yoga/meditation. Women practicing yoga/meditation were significantly more likely to report at least moderate physical activity levels (OR=1.50-2.79), to follow a vegetarian (OR=1.67-3.22) or vegan (OR=2.26-3.68) diet, and to report the use of marijuana (OR=1.28-1.89) and illicit drugs in the last 12 months (OR=1.23-1.98).Conclusions: Yoga/meditation practice was associated with higher physical activity levels, a higher likelihood of vegetarian or vegan diet use, and a higher likelihood of drug use. While health professionals should keep the potential vulnerability of yoga/meditation practitioners to drug use in mind, the positive associations of yoga/meditation with a variety of positive health behaviors warrant its consideration in preventive medicine and healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yoga exercises have been associated with joint problems recently, indicating that yoga practice might be potentially dangerous for joint health. This study aimed to analyse whether regular yoga practice is associated with the frequency of joint problems in upper middle-aged Australian women. Women aged 62-67 years from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) were questioned in 2013 whether they experienced regular joint pain or problems in the past 12 months and whether they regularly practiced yoga. Associations of joint problems with yoga practice were analysed using Chi-squared tests and multiple logistic regression modelling. Of 9151 women, 29.8% reported regular problems with stiff or painful joints, and 15.2, 11.9, 18.1 and 15.9% reported regular problems with shoulders, hips, knees and feet, respectively, in the past 12 months. Yoga was practiced sometimes by 10.1% and often by 8.4% of women. Practicing yoga was not associated with upper or lower limb joint problems. No association between yoga practice and joint problems has been identified. Further studies are warranted for conclusive judgement of benefits and safety of yoga in relation to joint problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In recent decades, the evidence supporting the physical and mental health benefits of holistic movement practices such as yoga and t'ai chi have become increasingly established. Consequently, investigating the participation prevalence and patterns of these practices is a relevant pursuit in the public health field. Few studies have provided population-level assessment of participation rates, however, and even fewer have focused on patterns over time. The purpose of this study was to examine participation prevalence and trends in yoga/Pilates and t'ai chi/qigong over a ten-year period in a nationally representative sample of Australians aged 15 years and over, with particular attention to sex and age. A secondary purpose was to juxtapose these findings with participation trends in traditional fitness activities over the same period. Methods: Data comprised modes and types of physical activity, age, and sex variables collected through the Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey (ERASS), a series of independent cross-sectional Australia-wide surveys conducted yearly between 2001 and 2010. For each year, weighted population estimates were calculated for those participating in yoga/Pilates, t'ai chi/qigong, and fitness activities (e.g. aerobics, calisthenics). Linear regression and multiple logistic regression analyses were used to examine trends in prevalence rates over time and differences among sex and age (15-34; 35-54; 55+ years) groups, respectively. Results: Average prevalence rates between 2001 and 2010 were 3.0% (95% CI 2.9-3.1) for yoga/Pilates, 0.6% (95% CI 0.5-0.6) for t'ai chi/qigong, and 19.2% (95% CI 18.9-19.4) for fitness activities. Across the decade, overall participation rates remained relatively stable for yoga/Pilates and t'ai chi/qigong, while increasing linearly for fitness activities. For both genders and in all three age groups, participation in fitness activities increased, whereas only in the 55+ age group was there a significant increase in yoga/Pilates participation; participation in t'ai chi/qigong declined significantly in the two younger age groups. Conclusions: Participation rates in yoga/Pilates and t'ai chi/qigong in Australia were low and relatively stable. As fitness activities increased in popularity across the decade, holistic movement practices did not. These findings point to the need to investigate activity-specific barriers and facilitators to participation, including intrapersonal, interpersonal, organisational, and environmental factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Evidence suggests that yoga may help improve cancer-related symptoms though knowledge of the experiences, barriers and preferences of people diagnosed with cancer is limited. This study sought to examine the use of yoga in an Australian sample and identify the experiences and preferences associated with undertaking yoga practice as formative research to help inform a future yoga intervention., Methods: Adults diagnosed with any type of cancer completed a cross-sectional survey including questions regarding their demographics, experiences and preferences for yoga practice., Results: Sixty-eight people who had been diagnosed with cancer completed the survey. Most of the participants (70.8%) had practiced yoga since their diagnosis. A variety of reasons for practice were endorsed, and benefits experienced included physical and psychological factors. The most common barrier to practice was related to the physical ability to undertake yoga. Participants indicated a preference for group classes (44.1%), with a frequency of practice of 2-3 times per week (60.3%), 60 min in length (75%). The preferred time of practice was 9am-12pm (51.5%) and travel distance 5-10 km (44.1%). Online yoga delivery was endorsed, with participants preferring pre-recorded sessions., Conclusions: Results from this study provide insights into the experiences, barriers and preferences for yoga practice in people with cancer which will assist in developing yoga programs in this cohort to investigate the effects on cancer and treatment-related symptoms., (Copyright © 2022. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Introduction: Falls are the leading cause of injuries in women across all ages. While yoga has been shown to increase balance, it has also been associated with injuries due to falls during practice. This study aimed to analyse whether regular yoga or meditation practice is associated with the frequency of falls and fall-related injuries in upper middle-aged Australian women.Methods: Women aged 59-64 years from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) were queried regarding falls and falls-related injuries; and whether they regularly practiced yoga or meditation. Associations of falls and falls-related injuries with yoga or meditation practice were analysed using chi-squared tests and multiple logistic regression modelling.Results: Of 10,011 women, 4413 (44.1%) had slipped, tripped or stumbled, 2770 (27.7%) had fallen to the ground, 1398 (14.0%) had been injured as a result of falling, and 901 (9.0%) women had sought medical attention for a fall-related injury within the previous 12 months. Yoga or meditation was practiced regularly by 746 (7.5%) women. No associations of falls, fall-related injuries and treatment due to falls-related injury with yoga or meditation practice were found.Discussion: No association between yoga or meditation practice and falls or fall-related injuries have been found. Further studies are warranted for conclusive judgement of benefits and safety of yoga and meditation in relation to balance, falls and fall-related injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to examine the influence of yoga practice on body image satisfaction in men. Male Figure Drawings were used to explore body image satisfaction in yoga beginners ( n = 26, M age = 40.3 yr., SD = 11.6), experienced yoga practitioners ( n = 22, M age = 46.4 yr., SD = 11.6), and non-yoga practicing aerobic and weight training exercisers ( n = 34, M age = 41.2 yr., SD = 11.9). Satisfaction was significantly higher among the yoga groups than the exercisers. There was no statistical difference between the body satisfaction scores of the experienced yoga group and the beginner yoga students. This may suggest that individuals drawn to yoga have greater body satisfaction than exercisers, and that regular yoga practice possibly further increases body satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic work-related stress is an independent risk factor for cardiometabolic diseases and associated mortality, particularly when compounded by a sedentary work environment. The purpose of this study was to determine if an office worksite-based hatha yoga program could improve physiological stress, evaluated via heart rate variability (HRV), and associated health-related outcomes in a cohort of office workers. Methods: Thirty-seven adults employed in university-based office positions were randomized upon the completion of baseline testing to an experimental or control group. The experimental group completed a 10-week yoga program prescribed three sessions per week during lunch hour (50 min per session). An experienced instructor led the sessions, which emphasized asanas (postures) and vinyasa (exercises). The primary outcome was the high frequency (HF) power component of HRV. Secondary outcomes included additional HRV parameters, musculoskeletal fitness (i.e. push-up, side-bridge, and sit & reach tests) and psychological indices (i.e. state and trait anxiety, quality of life and job satisfaction). Results: All measures of HRV failed to change in the experimental group versus the control group, except that the experimental group significantly increased LF:HF (p = 0.04) and reduced pNN50 (p = 0.04) versus control, contrary to our hypotheses. Flexibility, evaluated via sit & reach test increased in the experimental group versus the control group (p < 0.001). No other adaptations were noted. Post hoc analysis comparing participants who completed ≥70% of yoga sessions (n = 11) to control (n = 19) yielded the same findings, except that the high adherers also reduced state anxiety (p = 0.02) and RMSSD (p = 0.05), and tended to improve the push-up test (p = 0.07) versus control. Conclusions: A 10-week hatha yoga intervention delivered at the office worksite during lunch hour did not improve HF power or other HRV parameters. However, improvements in flexibility, state anxiety and musculoskeletal fitness were noted with high adherence. Future investigations should incorporate strategies to promote adherence, involve more frequent and longer durations of yoga training, and enrol cohorts who suffer from higher levels of work-related stress. Trial registration: ACTRN12611000536965 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of one session of Yoga Nidra (relaxation technique) on the breathing patterns/respiratory effort in the thoracic and abdominal chest regions of boys with disruptive behaviour using a Respiratory Inductive Plethysmography (RIP). The participants (n = 7) were aged 10-15 years and attending NSW, Department of Education (DET) special schools for children with disruptive behaviour (DB). Results were compared with three students (one female) aged 15 years without DB. The seven boys had previously participated in a 13-week yoga program . During this program participants were progressively taught the practice of Yoga Nidra. The comparison group did not participate in the yoga program but underwent the same procedure for collection of data as the yoga group. Using Compumedics 'ProFusion Polysomnography (PSG)' software and further analyses in 'Polyman' European Data Format + (EDF), data were analysed by identifying breathing as unstable or stable. Unstable breathing was identified as fluctuations in rate/s of breathing effort, amplitude, cessation of breath, and thoracic or abdominal predominance. Results indicated that boys with disruptive behaviour generally displayed unstable breathing patterns throughout the pre-recording period and showed more stable breathing during Yoga Nidra compared with pre- or post-recording periods. There were also examples of reductions in thoracic dominance during Yoga Nidra. The comparison group's breathing patterns throughout the three phases of the process were found to be stable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenomenological theories that posit embodied beings and their worlds as coextensive have significant parallels with cosmological tenets in schools of Indian yoga and tantra, including some of its Western adaptations. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork in the Satyananda Yoga community in Australia, this article explores three theories of signification to try to grasp the complex ways body‐world relations are thematized, mediated, and experienced in Satyananda Yoga practice. These include Lakoff and Johnson's ontological metaphors, Jackson's lived metaphors, and Peirce's theory of iconic and indexical signs. The article concludes that the principal idea in Peirce's semeiotic provides the most useful conceptual framework for capturing the phenomenology and cultural meanings of body‐world relations in Satyananda Yoga practice. Finally, I provide some remarks on the utility and limitations of Peirce's general semeiotic as a framework for further explorations of embodied worlds. Résumé: Les théories phénoménologiques postulant que les êtres incarnés et leurs mondes coexistent présentent d'importants parallèles avec les concepts cosmologiques des écoles de yoga et de tantra indiennes, y compris certaines de leurs adaptations occidentales. À partir d'un travail de terrain ethnographique dans la communauté des adeptes du yoga Satyananda en Australie, l'auteur explore trois théories de la signification afin de tenter d'appréhender les manières complexes dont les relations entre le corps et le monde sont thématisées, transmises et perçues dans la pratique du yoga Satyananda. Ces approches comprennent les métaphores ontologiques de Lakoff et Johnson, les métaphores vécues de Jackson et la théorie des signes iconiques et indexiques de Peirce. L'auteur conclut que l'idée principale de la séméiotique de Peirce constitue le cadre conceptuel le plus utile pour saisir la phénoménologie et les significations culturelles des relations entre corps et monde dans la pratique du yoga Satyananda. Pour finir, elle fait quelques remarques sur l'utilité et les limites de la séméiotique générale de Peirce comme cadre de nouvelles explorations des mondes incarnés. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the phenomenology of place and space in the case of the Satyananda Yoga practice in Australia. Edward Casey claims that embodied being-in-the-world is irrevocably dependent on a sense of place for its own existential coherence and that placeless space inspires terror. His claim is rendered problematic by how Satyananda yogis enact a range of meaningful spatial relations through embodied practices to aid the evolution of self.

Scientists caution against ignoring human-induced climate change and related health repercussions, with a growing body of literature highlighting the mental health effects of climate change and the importance of understanding coping and adaptation strategies. Less is known, however, about sustainable personal practices fortifying mental health in the context of climate change. The present study sought to investigate how long-term yoga practitioners (yoga therapists or yoga teachers) in Australia with a lived experience of climate change-related events are coping and adapting. The aim was to better understand participants' reports of climate change-related experiences and how yoga influences their mental health and choices in the face of climate change. Eleven in-depth telephone interviews were conducted and analyzed using an interpretive phenomenological methodology. Participants reported that their ongoing relationship with yoga influences how they cope with climate change-related stressors and their being-in-the-world, and how concern for all life bolsters their responses to climate change. The results illustrate the part yoga may play in supporting long-term practitioners to prepare for, cope with, and respond to climate change events and impacts. Offering inclusive, interdisciplinary yoga therapy and community-based networks fostering ethical living and response flexibility may prove beneficial not only for the mental health and coping ability of participants, but for the planet., (© 2022 Journal of The International Association of Yoga Therapists.)

Couple relationship satisfaction is an important predictor of physical and mental health. Despite this, currently offered interventions for distressed couples are not always effective. The present cross-sectional online survey design examined how yoga practice, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence interrelate when predicting relationship satisfaction. The study consisted of 128 heterosexual married or cohabiting Australian adults (mean age 29.7 ± 9.3) who practice yoga. Supporting the hypothesis, a serial mediation analysis revealed that time spent practicing yoga had a positive influence on relationship satisfaction through mindfulness, and then through emotional intelligence (b = 0.005, 95% CI 0.001 to 0.009). The findings also showed a direct effect of time spent practicing yoga on relationship satisfaction; however, there was no support for the individual mediating effects of mindfulness and emotional intelligence on the association between time spent practicing yoga and relationship satisfaction. The current findings suggest that yoga may be an effective and easily implemented approach to improving mindfulness and enhancing emotional intelligence, as well as heterosexual couples' relationship satisfaction.

Holistic movement practices (HMPs) are an emerging category of physical activity, contributing to the diversification of physical activity opportunities. Purposefully incorporating not only physical but also mental, social, and/or spiritual elements, HMPs have received limited research attention with respect to participation parameters. The purpose of this study was to begin to map HMPs' participation potential by exploring the provision features of HMPs in Melbourne. Data were collected via internet searches, with a focus on events offered. Event features, including type, cost, duration, venue address, and target groups, were recorded. Associated neighbourhood characteristics were also explored by linking venue locations to selected census information. Provision was documented for Yoga and Pilates in central Melbourne (1011 events), for Tai Chi and Qigong (323 events), and for a range of smaller HMPs (149 events) across Greater Melbourne. Results indicated a wide range in provision features. Affinities with the holistic nature of HMPs were noticeable in venue choices and neighbourhood socio-demographics. Mention of specific target groups was infrequent. Results are discussed in light of implications for uptake. HMPs exemplify the increasing diversity of physical activity opportunities in modern-day societies. Further research to elucidate their place in the landscape of physical activities is warranted.

Background: Physical inactivity is common in severe asthma and associated with poor health outcomes. New approaches are needed to address physical inactivity in this group., Objective: To examine whether yoga and mindfulness improves health-related quality of life (HRQoL) compared with a minimal active control group and collect feasibility data to inform future studies., Methods: Over 12-weeks, adults with severe asthma were recruited. Participants were randomised 2:1 to parallel yoga or control groups. All participants received an activity tracker. The yoga group received tailored group classes twice a week for 16-weeks with a qualified yoga instructor. The control group set activity goals with a research officer and received eight progress calls. Outcomes were assessed at 16-weeks. Primary outcome was St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ). Secondary outcomes included asthma control, physical activity, breathlessness, and inflammation. Face-to-face qualitative interviews were conducted to determine acceptability., Results: There were 15 participants randomised to yoga (mean 67 years; 60% female) and 9 to control (68 years; 56% female). Planned comparisons indicated the yoga group had greater SGRQ improvement than the control group. There was little change in secondary outcomes. Moderate-vigorous activity increased substantially in the control group. Participants found the intervention acceptable; key barriers and facilitators were social connection, the setting, addressing breathing and asthma symptoms, changing their mindset, and the intersection of different elements., Conclusion: A yoga and mindfulness intervention was feasible, acceptable to patients and improved HRQoL. The findings will inform design of much needed future research into physical activity interventions for severe asthma. World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform The study was registered under the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) on the 26th of November 2018, Trial ID ACTRN12618001914257.

Yoga offers an integrated approach to health and well-being that could potentially benefit men. This qualitative descriptive study examined men's perceptions of yoga, and identified barriers and possible facilitators for participation. Twenty-one non-yoga participant men, 18-60 years old, and living in Queensland, Australia, were interviewed. Two major barriers were identified using thematic analysis: (1) preference for other forms of physical activity, and (2) gender-related perceptions and pressures (i.e., perception of yoga as feminine, and presence of "bloke" culture and masculine ideals in society). Potential facilitators included: (1) acceptability of yoga among men, (2) providing brief information sessions, and (3) men-only classes. The non-competitive nature of yoga, in addition to being predominantly undertaken by women, makes it less appealing for men living in Australia. These barriers need to be considered if yoga is to be promoted as an option for men, particularly those not drawn to traditional sports or exercise., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Context: The mechanisms of chronic pain involve complex neuroplastic changes at all 3 orders of neurons involved in the transmission of pain as well as changes in the descending inhibitory pathway. Although traditional pharmaceutical therapies have some efficacy, substantial scope exists for a new model of individualized therapy, tailored to the specific response of each patient. Because changes occur at all levels of the pain pathway, successful treatment may require a combination of therapies with different mechanisms of action., Objective: The research team intended to examine the potential changes within the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and central nervous system (CNS) of patients with chronic pain and to propose a model of chronic pain treatment involving multimodal, complementary therapies for individualized treatment targeting multiple sites along the pain pathway., Design: The research team performed a review of the literature in the field., Setting: The study took place in the School of Health and Human Sciences at Southern Cross University (Lismore, New South Wales, Australia)., Interventions: A growing body of evidence supports the use of a variety of complementary therapies to treat chronic pain, including curcumin, capsaicin, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, lipoic acid, acupuncture, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness meditation. These therapies vary with respect to the mechanisms by which they act and the potential areas of effect along the pain pathway., Results: The literature review showed a number of complementary therapies may be efficacious in reducing chronic pain and/or the need for analgesics, which may offer a reduced adverse effect profile. These therapies include curcumin, capsaicin, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, lipoic acid, acupuncture, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness meditation. Response rates to treatment are likely to vary between people and within therapies., Conclusions: The available evidence suggests that efficacious complementary therapies exist that target all 3 orders of neurons and, therefore, the authors recommend multimodal individualized treatment for each patient. There is high interindividual variability between patients in responses to treatments.

Background: Weight gain is common after breast cancer (BC) treatment and may increase the risk of disease recurrence. Complementary medicine (CM) use is high amongst BC patients. This paper describes the use of CM from a cross-sectional self-administered survey on prevalence and management of weight after BC. Methods: Use of CM was assessed using a question modified from the I-CAM Questionnaire. Participants were asked to rate perceived effectiveness, advantages and disadvantages, and which CM they were willing to use for weight management if there was evidence for effectiveness. The survey was emailed to members of the Breast Cancer Network Australia Survey and Review Group, the largest consumer advocacy group in Australia for people with breast cancer. Results: There were a total of 309 responses. Three quarters had used CM in the past 12 months. One third had tried CM for weight loss. Yoga, meditation and pilates were perceived to be effective for weight loss. Perceived advantages of CMs for weight loss were the ability to improve general wellbeing, relaxation, and being non-pharmacological while disadvantages were financial cost, finding a reliable practitioner, and lack of research for effectiveness. Three quarters would be willing to try CM for weight loss if there was evidence for effectiveness, with the most popular CMs being acupuncture, relaxation, yoga, supplements, and meditation. Conclusions: The high use of CM in this group is consistent with previous research. Our research suggests that BC survivors would use acupuncture, meditation, supplements and yoga for weight loss if supported by scientifically-credible evidence. Research into the effectiveness of these treatments on weight loss after BC is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

International research provides support for yoga as a well-being intervention in prison. No systematic research has been undertaken in Australia to assess the effectiveness of prison yoga programs. In 2017, the authors, in partnership with Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Corrective Services and the Yoga Foundation, introduced a weekly pilot yoga program at the ACT prison. This article presents quantitative and qualitative findings from the program. Although the small sample size ( n = 8) is acknowledged, our findings indicate that participants attained statistically and clinically significant benefit from the program, demonstrated by improvements in their levels of depression, anxiety, self-esteem, goal-direction, negative affect, and non-acceptance. They also reported improved flexibility, sleep and relaxation, pain reduction, and identified improvements in their mental well-being, commenting that the program made them feel "calm" and "at peace." The article concludes by advocating for the expansion of such programs in Australian prisons and further research on such programs.

Background and Purpose: Yoga and meditation are predominantly utilised by healthy well-educated young women, but little is known about utilisation by older chronically ill women. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the characteristics of yoga and meditation use among middle-to-higher aged Australian women with chronic conditions., Materials and Methods: This is a sub-study of the 45 and Up Study including 1925 Australian women aged 53-95 years diagnosed with chronic conditions (asthma, depression, diabetes, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis). Information on yoga and meditation use frequencies (categories: 'no yoga', 'at least once daily', 'at least once weekly', and 'at least once monthly'), self-perceived effectiveness and communication with health care providers were assessed via self-report. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify independent predictors of yoga and meditation use, using SPSS 24.0., Results: Overall 6.8% and 10.7% of women reported the use of yoga and meditation respectively. Meditation was rarely practiced supervised (11.7%), compared to significant higher rates in yoga (53.2%). Predictors for yoga and meditation use were marital status (married/in relationship > not married/in relationship), higher health related hardiness, and higher education, whereas obesity, and diabetes decreased likelihood of use. While the majority found yoga and meditation helpful for their condition, the use was rarely monitored by or discussed with health care practitioners., Conclusion: This study finds that yoga and meditation are used by middle-to-higher aged Australian women with chronic illnesses. The lack of communication with health care providers is concerning and might hinder coordinated and effective health care around chronic illness. Further research is necessary to help understand possible concurrent health care use and thereby help inform safe, effective and coordinate health seeking amongst those with chronic illness., (Copyright © 2019. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Aims and Objectives: This qualitative study examined the appropriateness and acceptability of 14-week modified tai chi and yoga programmes in an Australian residential aged care (RAC) setting by exploring experiences and perspectives of frail older residents and staff participants., Background: Older persons in RAC have limited opportunities for physical activity. Tai chi and yoga are mindfulness-based exercise interventions that have been used to promote physical and psychological health of older adults in community settings. While research on tai chi and yoga interventions in community settings is promising, there is limited research regarding the interventions' appropriateness and acceptability for frail older residents in residential care settings in Australia., Design: Descriptive and qualitative component of a mixed-methods study., Methods: All residents who participated in the modified yoga and tai chi interventions and staff who supported them were invited. A total of 19 individuals comprising 16 residents and three staff members participated in three focus group interviews. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed thematically using a qualitative descriptive approach., Results: Nine themes that reflected the uniqueness of the programmes' mind-body approach are presented: (a) novel, new and exciting; (b) smoothness, rhythm and flow; (c) slow and mindful; (d) gentle but rewarding; (e) moving whole body; (f) perceived benefits; (g) worthwhile; (h) feeling alive; and (i) calming and relaxing., Conclusions: The modified programmes of tai chi and yoga was acceptable, appropriate, enjoyable and helpful. Both tai chi and yoga appear to provide appropriate physical exercise and opportunities for older persons to enhance their quality of life through interaction of physical, emotional and intellectual wellness domains., Relevance to Clinical Practice: The 14-week modified programmes of tai chi and yoga could be applied to frail older RAC population to promote health and active ageing., (© 2018 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Objective: there is evidence of high use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) by pregnant women. Despite debate and controversy regarding CAM use in pregnancy there has been little research focus upon the impacts of CAM use on birth outcomes. This paper reports findings outlining the incidence of adverse birth outcomes among women accessing CAM during pregnancy., Design: a survey-based cohort sub-study from the nationally-representative Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) was undertaken in 2010., Participants: women (aged 31-36 years) who identified in 2009 as pregnant or recently given birth (n=2445) from the younger cohort (n=8012) of ALSWH were recruited for the study., Measurements and Findings: participants' responses were analysed to examine the relationship between use of CAM and adverse birth outcomes from their most recent pregnancy. Of the respondents (n=1835; 79.2%), there were variations in birth outcomes for the women who used different CAM. Notably, the outcome which was most commonly associated with CAM use was emotional distress. This was found to occur more commonly in women who practised meditation/yoga at home, used flower essences, or consulted with a chiropractor. In contrast, women who consulted with a chiropractor or consumed herbal teas were less likely to report a premature birth, whilst participation in yoga classes was associated with an increased incidence of post partum/intrapartum haemorrhage., Key Conclusions: the results emphasise the necessity for further research evaluating the safety and effectiveness of CAM for pregnant women, with a particular focus on birth outcomes., Implications for Practice: health professionals providing care need to be aware of the potential birth outcomes associated with CAM use during pregnancy to enable the provision of accurate information to women in their care, and to assist in safely supporting women accessing CAM to assist with pregnancy, labour and birth., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)