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The article "Role of yoga and naturopathy interventions in the management of rheumatoid arthritis: A mechanistic review" published in the International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases explores the use of yoga and naturopathy in treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The study highlights the potential benefits of yoga therapy in improving RA symptoms by balancing the autonomic nervous system and reducing inflammation. Additionally, the role of naturopathy, including diet therapy and color therapy, in managing RA is discussed, emphasizing the importance of dietary modifications and alternative therapies in reducing inflammation and pain. The review suggests that further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of action of these interventions in treating RA. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: This study aims to explore the impact of nonpharmacological therapies on cancer patients' daily illness management and long-term well-being. It focuses on the design and effects of immersive multisensory workshops, including therapies such as yoga, music therapy and visual imagery. By examining individuals' experiences before, during and after the service experience, the study aims to provide comprehensive insights into the transformative effects of these immersive multisensorial experiences from the individuals' perspectives. Design/methodology/approach: From November 2021 to March 2023, the authors conducted 13 interviews and 3 focus groups (10 participants in total) among cancer patients. Thematic analysis of recorded interviews and focus groups revealed recurring patterns, key themes and meaningful insights from participants' narratives. Findings: The findings provide insights into individuals' journey of service experiences among cancer patients from a user perspective. By framing the results within the service encounters model, individuals' journey of this immersive multisensory experience is studied in three different periods: the pre-core, the core and the post-core service encounter. The pre-core service encounter includes activities such as information gathering to answer concerns and setting expectations, with the therapy. The core service encounter encompasses the immersive environmental experience, which includes multisensory integration and activity immersion, body-mind reconnection, as well as engaging interactive experiences with service providers, other patients and internal engagement. The post-core service encounter reflects the cognitive, psychological, behavioral and spiritual outcomes of the service. Originality/value: This paper sheds light on the design of immersive multisensory workshops as nonpharmacological therapy. Adopting a user-focused approach using the service encounters framework helps clarify various aspects of this therapy and its effects on patients' reconnection with their bodies and well-being. This research offers valuable insights for designing effective multisensory therapeutic environments for chronic patients to improve the quality of health-care services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a long-term autoimmune disorder affecting the central nervous system, leading to reduced quality of life and impaired physical and psychological functions. Objectives: This study aims to examine the relative efficacy of yoga and relaxation therapy in improving sleep disturbances, fatigue, and cognitive impairment among individuals diagnosed with MS. Methods: This study employed a semi-experimental research design, including a pre-test, post-test, and follow-up over three months. The target population comprised all MS patients referred to the Iranian MS Association in Tehran between July and November 2023. Sixty participants were selected using purposive sampling and randomly assigned to research groups: Two yoga therapy groups with 17 participants each, a relaxation therapy group with 16 participants, and a control group with 18 participants. The yoga therapy group participated in twelve 90-minute sessions twice a week, while the control group received no intervention and was placed on a waiting list. Various tools, including the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI), Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI-O), and a concentration skills questionnaire, were used to collect data. The data were analyzed using ANOVA, Bonferroni post hoc test, MANCOVA, and Kruskal-Wallis H tests with a significance level of 0.05, utilizing SPSS 27 software. Results: The study found a significant difference (P < 0.001) in the restlessness factor in both the post-test and follow-up phases. Additionally, there was a significant difference (P < 0.001) in the levels of physical fatigue, mental fatigue, decreased activity, and decreased motivation in both the post-test and follow-up phases, indicating significant changes in the fatigue factor among the research groups. However, there was no significant difference in the general fatigue component between the research groups. A significant difference (P < 0.001) was also found in the concentration factor, particularly in the components of voluntary and involuntary concentration, during both the post-test and follow-up stages. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that both yoga and relaxation therapy techniques significantly reduce restlessness, physical tiredness, mental fatigue, decreased activity, and decreased motivation. Furthermore, the findings validate that both yoga and relaxation therapy techniques effectively enhance voluntary and involuntary concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Multiple sclerosis is the most common autoimmune inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system that affects the myelinated axons of the central nervous system and causes neurological deterioration. The prevalence of this disease in women is reported to be 3 times that of men. In recent years, more people with the disease have sought alternative drug therapies to manage symptoms, including mind-body therapies such as yoga, meditation, breathing, and relaxation techniques. The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the effect of eight weeks of yoga training on the serum levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 6, interleukin 10 and body composition in women with multiple sclerosis. Materials and Methods: In this semi-experimental study, 20 women with multiple sclerosis who were referred to the medical centers of Semnan city (mean±SD; age, 36.75±6.10 years; body mass index, 26.88±6.02 kg/m2; and with EDSS index >3.5) were selected and randomly divided into two groups of yoga training (n=10) and control (n=10). The experimental group performed yoga training for eight weeks, three sessions per week (24 sessions) in an indoor hall with a temperature of 25-26°C. The training protocol started with performing two sets of 10 seconds for 15 movements and to observe the overload principle every two weeks, 5 seconds were added for each training movement and one movement was added to the training protocol, where at the final week number of movements reached 18 movements and 15 seconds. During this period, the control group had no regular physical activity and had normal daily activities. In order to determine and control the training pressure, the Borg's rate of perceived exertion (RPE) scale was used. Statistical analysis of the data was performed by using the repeated measures of ANOVA, independent t-test and dependent t-test at a significance level of p≤0.05. Results: The results of this study showed a significant decrease in the serum levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 6 and interleukin 10 in the experimental group compared to the control group after eight weeks of training (p=0.001). However, no significant difference was observed in the body composition of women with multiple sclerosis compared to the control group after eight weeks of yoga (p>0.05).Conclusion: Finally, the results of this research showed that eight weeks of yoga training by reducing inflammatory cytokines and adjusting the serum index of tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin 6, can be used as a complementary treatment along with drug treatments for patients with multiple sclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a prevalent condition that significantly impacts quality of life. Conventional treatments often provide limited relief, prompting exploration of alternative therapies such as yoga. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of yoga practice in the management of CLBP in a sample population from Ranchi. Materials and Methods: A prospective, randomized trial was conducted over a period of one month. A total of 50 participants diagnosed with CLBP were randomly assigned to either a yoga intervention group or a control group receiving standard care. The yoga group participated in guided yoga sessions three times a week, each lasting 60 minutes. Pain levels were measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at baseline and after the intervention. Functional disability was assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Results: At the end of the study, participants in the yoga group showed a significant reduction in pain scores, with mean VAS scores decreasing from 7.5 ± 1.2 to 3.4 ± 0.9 (p < 0.001). The control group exhibited a marginal decrease in pain, with mean VAS scores reducing from 7.3 ± 1.3 to 6.8 ± 1.1 (p > 0.05). Additionally, the yoga group demonstrated an improvement in functional disability, with ODI scores decreasing from 45.7% to 22.3%, compared to the control group, which showed no significant change in ODI scores (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The findings suggest that yoga is an effective intervention for reducing pain and improving functional outcomes in individuals with chronic low back pain. Incorporating yoga into treatment plans for CLBP may offer significant benefits, particularly for patients seeking non-pharmacological options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Addiction is a behavioral state, in which a person has difficulty controlling her/his will and desires due to mental instabilities or the consumption of certain chemicals, leading to the repetition of certain behaviors. This study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of yoga training on psychological well-being, emotion regulation, and sleep quality of prisoners suffering from industrial drug abuse. Methods: The current quasi-experimental study used a pre-test and post-test design with a control group. The statistical population included all individuals incarcerated in the prisons of Uremia City, Iran, in 2022, who abused industrial drugs. Thirty individuals were screened in a targeted manner based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were randomly assigned to two groups (experimental group=15, control group=15). One group was designated as the yoga therapy group and the other was designated as the control group. A training package was used for yoga training, and emotional regulation was assessed using the questionnaires developed by Garnefski. Psychological well-being was measured using the questionnaire by Ryff and Keyes, and sleep quality was evaluated using the Pittsburgh sleep quality index by Buysse. Data were analyzed using a multivariate covariance test and SPSS software, version 22 was used for data analysis. Results: For the 30 prisoners with drug abuse, the research data were analyzed in the experimental and control groups, with a mean age of 39.23±6.04 and 42.4±7.59 years, respectively. The yoga training had a positive effect on the psychological well-being, emotional regulation, and sleep quality of prisoners suffering from industrial drug abuse (P<0.05). Conclusion: Yoga training could increase the mental well-being, emotion regulation, and sleep quality of prisoners suffering from industrial drug abuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dissection of the axillary lymph nodes during surgery for breast cancer with lymph node involvement is burdened by a complication: lymphedema. Approximately half of women undergoing axillary dissection suffer from it, with a notable impact in terms of perceived discomfort, presented quality of life, and alteration of body image. There is also no shortage of problems in the patient's social and professional life. Methods: The present review aims to select Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) present in the literature regarding the effects of yoga as an alternative therapy in patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema. A search of four databases was undertaken: Cochrane, Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The searches were conducted on 19 May 2024, and updated to 30 June 2024 without date limits. RCTs without language limitations, in any context, and with any yoga variant were considered. Results: The postulated search strings highlighted a total of 69 potentially eligible studies. The study selection system consisted of two levels of screening, (1) abstract selection and (2) full-text selection, for a total of three studies included in the review. The three RCTs included involved mixed treatment sessions in an outpatient setting with a yoga teacher and at home using a DVD. In the various studies, the outcome measures concerned quality of life, ROM, spinal mobility, limb volume, and tissue induration. Conclusions: According to the analysis of the data obtained, yoga as an alternative therapy could be useful if combined with the usual care routine in women with lymphedema related to sensory cancer, in terms of improving physical, professional, and emotional quality of life and reducing symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and insomnia. Furthermore, yoga could bring about a reduction in tissue induration of the limb, greater spinal mobility evaluated in terms of improvement of the pelvic and kyphotic angle, and greater strength in shoulder abduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) presents patients with chronic pain and functional limitations due to its autoimmune nature. Despite symptomatic and pharmaceutical interventions, many patients experience inadequate relief, prompting exploration into non-pharmacological approaches such as yoga. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of yoga as an adjunctive therapy for RA by examining clinical data from patients experiencing chronic pain and limitations. This study analyzed several clinical cases at the Shymkent City Regional Clinical Hospital. Ten RA patients, irrespective of various demographic factors, were enrolled. Parameters including pain intensity, inflammation activity, systolic blood pressure, joint function, and morning stiffness were assessed to gauge the impact of yoga. The findings demonstrated notable positive changes following a three-month yoga program. These changes encompassed enhanced joint health, reduced pain severity, and decreased disease activity. Particularly noteworthy was the reduction in morning stiffness by an average of 31 min, alongside a decrease in the average pain index from 80 mm to 41.5 mm. The mean RA activity level decreased from 5.8 to 4.7. Furthermore, mean systolic blood pressure decreased by 15.5 mmHg, and mean cholesterol levels decreased from 5.3 mmol/L to 4.8 mmol/L. These results underscore the potential significance of yoga as a supplementary intervention for RA. Yoga practice may enhance patients' quality of life and alleviate disease symptoms. Nevertheless, the study's limited sample size necessitates caution, and further research is warranted to validate these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine the effect of different combinations of different exercise modalities with different training cycles on the improvement of quality of life and pain symptoms in breast cancer patients. Methods: The databases PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus were searched through a computer network with a search deadline of 23 August 2023. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted data and performed methodological quality assessment of the included literature, and then performed the corresponding statistical analyses and graphing using stata17.0. Results: Thirty-six randomized control trial (RCT) studies involving 3003 participants and seven exercise modalities were included. Most of the exercise modalities improved patients' quality of life compared to usual care, with long-term aerobic combined with resistance exercise [SMD = 0.83,95% CI = 0.34,1.33,p = 0.001] and YOGA [SMD = 0.61,95% CI = 0.06,1.16,p = 0.029] treatments having a significant effect. For pain and fatigue-related outcome indicators, the treatment effect was not significant for all exercise modalities included in the analysis compared to the control group, but tended to be beneficial for patients. Conclusion: Long-term aerobic combined with resistance exercise was the most effective in improving quality of life and fatigue status in breast cancer patients, and aerobic exercise was more effective in improving pain symptoms in breast cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There is growing evidence of the benefit of physical activity and mindfulness in breast cancer patients (HC et al. in BMC Complement Altern Med, 2017). Yoga offers a combination of both. The aim of this study was to establish an online yoga program for breast cancer patients and survivors. As the project was launched during the (COVID) pandemic restrictions, we intended to prove effective online yoga as a way to access supportive therapy independently of sanitary issues and geographic locations in rural regions. Methods: The two main outcomes were quality of life and sleep quality, and both were evaluated by standardized questionnaires (EORTC-QLQ 30 BR 23 and PSQI). Participants (n = 173) had breast cancer or a history of breast cancer and were randomized to either 6 weeks online yoga, twice a week for 45 min or a waiting control group. Results: Our results show improved sleep quality in the PSQI score and improved subitems (dyspnea and physical activity) in the EORTC quality of life score. Discussion: Online yoga seems to be a valid option in supportive therapy for breast cancer patients, as it improves physical fitness, dyspnea and overall sleep quality. It is also safe and cost effective as a remote intervention. Trial registration: Trial registration number and date of registration for prospectively registered trials: DRKS00029548, 07.07.2022.WHO International clinical trials registry platform number: DRKS00029548. The registration number of the ethical committee CAU in Kiel: D 589/20. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yoga has shown promise as an add-on therapy for patients with schizophrenia. However, most studies have been short-term, with methodological limitations. We conducted a six-month parallel-group randomized-controlled trial (with rater blinding) to evaluate the effectiveness of a yoga-based intervention in improving symptoms and quality of life in patients with schizophrenia. We recruited 110 patients from an urban tertiary hospital and a semi-urban community centre who met DSM 5 criteria for schizophrenia and were on stable medication for at least six weeks. Participants were randomly assigned to either yoga add-on therapy (YT) or treatment-as-usual (TAU) groups. Clinical assessments were conducted at baseline and at one, three and six months. The primary outcome was changes in positive/negative symptom scores and secondary outcomes included changes in quality of life, perceived stress and socio-occupational functioning. Intention to treat analysis with a longitudinal mixed model approach revealed a significant group-by-time interaction with the YT group showing medium effect improvements in negative symptoms (η2 p = 0.06) and small effect improvements in positive symptoms (η2 p = 0.012), WHOQOL-BREF quality of life [psychological well-being (η2 p = 0.015) and environmental health (η2 p = 0.048)] when compared to TAU. The patients successfully learned and performed yoga practices without reporting any significant adverse effects. Our findings suggest that yoga-based intervention may be a valuable adjuvant therapy for medication-stabilized patients with schizophrenia, especially in ameliorating negative symptoms and enhancing quality of life. Future controlled trials, including active physical interventions, are crucial to validate yoga's efficacy, optimize clinical use, and elucidate underlying mechanisms. • First six-month RCT of yoga as add-on therapy in schizophrenia. • Significant improvement in negative symptoms after yoga intervention (medium effect size). • Improvements in positive symptoms and quality of life (small effect size). • Yoga safely implemented, with no significant adverse effects. • Study supports yoga as a beneficial adjunct therapy for stabilized schizophrenia patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anticipatory chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is a conditioned response influenced by the severity and duration of previous emetic responses to chemotherapy. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of non-pharmacologic interventions for anticipatory CINV among patients with cancer. Methods: We conducted a systematic search in databases, including PubMed, the Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and Ichushi-Web, from January 1, 1990, to December 31, 2020. Randomized controlled trials, non-randomized designs, observational studies, or case–control studies that utilized non-pharmacological therapies were included. The primary outcomes were anticipatory CINV, with an additional investigation into adverse events and the costs of therapies. The risk-of-bias for each study was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool, and meta-analysis was performed using Revman 5.4 software. Results: Of the 107 studies identified, six met the inclusion criteria. Three types of non-pharmacological treatments were identified: systematic desensitization (n = 2), hypnotherapy (n = 2), and yoga therapy (n = 2). Among them, systematic desensitization significantly improved anticipatory CINV as compared to that in the control group (nausea: risk ratio [RR] = 0.60, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.49–0.72, p < 0.00001; vomiting: RR = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.32–0.91, p = 0.02). However, heterogeneity in outcome measures precluded meta-analysis for hypnotherapy and yoga. Additionally, most selected studies had a high or unclear risk of bias, and adverse events were not consistently reported. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that systematic desensitization may effectively reduce anticipatory CINV. However, further research is warranted before implementation in clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction • Musculoskeletal (MSK) pain is common and costly, and conventional care is often inadequate for pain resolution. Although evidence supports movement and manual therapy treatments, the benefits of the synchronous application of these two therapies are sparsely documented and poorly understood. Case presentation • A 40-year-old female presented to a chiropractic practice within a large multispecialty clinic with chronic right-sided thoracolumbar and posterior ribcage, abdominal wall, and anterior hip pain, despite extensive medical workup and multifaceted treatment. Intervention description • Initial chiropractic treatment entailed manual therapy and yoga-based home exercise prescription. Outcome measures during the first two months of treatment fluctuated erratically. In an effort to facilitate at-home yoga practice and to bolster the patient’s self-efficacy, myofascial release therapy was combined synchronously with in-clinic yoga practice (“yoga release therapy”, YRT). Outcomes • The shift in treatment to YRT was associated with improvements measured on the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) instrument, including: pain rating (50 – 20), pain interference (60 – 47), sleep disturbance (54 – 37), anxiety (46 – 42), fatigue (57 – 43), physical function (32 – 51), and social function (44 – 65). Conclusion • These outcomes indicate a potential role for YRT in an integrative approach to managing MSK pain. They justify prospective research to validate YRT’s efficacy and explore its mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concurrent chemoradiation to treat head and neck cancer (HNC) may result in debilitating toxicities. Targeted exercise such as yoga therapy may buffer against treatment-related sequelae; thus, this pilot RCT examined the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a yoga intervention. Because family caregivers report low caregiving efficacy and elevated levels of distress, we included them in this trial as active study participants. HNC patients and their caregivers were randomized to a 15-session dyadic yoga program or a waitlist control (WLC) group. Prior to randomization, patients completed standard symptom (MDASI-HN) and patients and caregivers completed quality of life (SF-36) assessments. The 15-session program was delivered parallel to patients' treatment schedules. Participants were re-assessed at patients' last day of chemoradiation and again 30 days later. Patients' emergency department visits, unplanned hospital admissions and gastric feeding tube placements were recorded over the treatment course and up to 30 days later. With a consent rate of 76%, 37 dyads were randomized. Participants in the yoga group completed a mean of 12.5 sessions and rated the program as "beneficial." Patients in the yoga group had clinically significantly less symptom interference and HNC symptom severity and better QOL than those in the WLC group. They were also less likely to have a hospital admission (OR = 3.00), emergency department visit (OR = 2.14), and/or a feeding tube placement (OR = 1.78). Yoga therapy appears to be a feasible, acceptable, and possibly efficacious behavioral supportive care strategy for HNC patients undergoing chemoradiation. A larger efficacy trial is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this review is to conduct a comprehensive and systematic assessment of the efficacy of Yoga as an intervention for knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Methods: We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, and PEDro as of January 3, 2024. Retrieved a total of 200 articles. Standardised mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. Results: The study included a total of 8 trials and involved 756 KOA patients. The results indicated that compared to the control group, Yoga exercise showed significant improvements in alleviating pain (SMD = -0.92; 95% CI = -1.64 ~ - 0.20; P = 0.01, I2 = 94%), stiffness (SMD = -0.51; 95% CI = -0.91 ~ -0.12; P = 0.01; I2 = 66%) and physical function (SMD = -0.53; 95% CI = -0.89 ~ -0.17; P = 0.004; I2 = 59%) among KOA patients. However, there was no significant improvement observed in terms of activities of activity of daily living (ADL) (SMD = 1.03; 95% CI = -0.01 ~ 2.07; P = 0.05; I2 = 84%), and quality of life (QOL) (SMD = 0.21; 95% CI = -0.33 ~ 0.74; P = 0.44; I2 = 83%) with the practice of Yoga. Conclusions: In general, Yoga has been found to be effective in reducing pain and stiffness in KOA patients, it can also improve the physical function of patients. However, there is limited evidence to suggest significant improvements in terms of ADL and QOL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the intervention effect of computerized cognitive remediation therapy (CCRT) on mental time travel (MTT) in patients with schizophrenia(SCZ). Methods: From August 2020 to July 2021, 60 patients with SCZ were randomly allocated to either the study or the control group. The control group was treated with conventional drugs alone. The study group received CCRT and medical therapy for 40 minutes three times a week for 4 weeks. The participants underwent the MTT test before and after the training. Results: A total of 28 patients in the study group and 26 patients in the control group were included in the analysis. Before training, there was no significant difference in the concretization ratio of recalling past and imagining future events between the study group and the control group (P > 0.05). After 4 weeks of training, the specific event ratio of the study group was higher than that of the control group (P < 0.01). In terms of the emotional titer of the events, the concreteness of the positive events in the study group was higher than that of the neutral events and negative events (P < 0.01). The concreteness of negative events was higher than that of neutral events (P < 0.01). Conclusion: CCRT can improve the MTT ability of SCZ patients, which is manifested by an increase in the concretiveness of recalling past and imagining future events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yoga, a 5000-year-old practice from India, is gaining popularity as a lifestyle intervention for psychiatric illnesses. It includes physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. Research suggests that yoga has benefits for mental wellness in both healthy individuals and those with mental illness. It has been shown to improve attention, cognitive skills, and quality of life in patients with schizophrenia. Yoga also has positive effects on individuals with cancer, depression, anxiety, and neurodegenerative diseases. However, it is important to practice yoga under the guidance of qualified instructors to avoid adverse effects. Further research is needed to fully understand the therapeutic potential of yoga for mental disorders. [Extracted from the article]

Context • Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is associated with a group of emotional, behavioral, and somatic symptoms that occur during the menstrual cycle. Laughter yoga involves a combination of laughter exercises and breathing techniques derived from more traditional yoga practice. No previous studies have examined the effects of laughter yoga on the symptoms of PMS. Objective • The study intended to assess the effectiveness of laughter yoga in coping with the premenstrual symptoms of women. Design • The research team performed a pretest and posttest, quasi-experimental study. Setting • The study took place in the nursing and midwifery departments at Marmara University, a state university located in Istanbul, Turkey. Participants • Participants were 80 female students in those departments at the university between February 2019 and May 2020 who had PMS. Intervention • The research team divided participants into two groups based on their departments: (1) an intervention group, the laughter yoga group, with 32 participants who took part in a twice-weekly laughter yoga program that included a weekly 30-min group session consisting of laughter and deep breathing, and (2) a control group with 48 participants. Outcome Measures • The research team collected the data using the Demographic and Descriptive Information Form (DDIF), Premenstrual Syndrome Symptom Scale (PMSS), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Results • Between baseline and postintervention, the laughter yoga group’s mean scores for the PMSS subdimensions depressive affection (P = .00), anxiety (P = .04), fatigue (P = .00), irritability (P = .01), depressive thoughts (P = .03), pain (P = .002), changes in sleep (P = .004), and bloating (P = .001) significantly decreased. The laughter yoga group’s scores for fatigue (P = .03) and pain (P = .001) were significantly lower than those of the control group postintervention. Conclusions • Laughter yoga is a noninvasive complementary therapy that clinicians can use to reduce the PMS symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The "Accepted Abstracts" document from the International Journal of Yoga Therapy presents various studies on the effectiveness of yoga interventions for different health conditions, including chronic lower back pain, post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome, trauma-adapted yoga for healthcare workers, and adapted yoga programs for individuals with acquired brain injury. The document also explores the impact of yoga on quality of life for immigrant and refugee women, cardiovascular disorders, premenstrual syndrome, and anxiety levels in pregnant women with obesity. Additionally, the document discusses the benefits of integrating yoga into psychotherapy sessions, highlighting the connection between the body and mind, the role of yoga in regulating the nervous system, and the importance of therapists embodying yoga practice for deeper client connection. Participants emphasized the need for a person-centered, client-led approach in Yoga-integrated Psychotherapy (YiP) and suggested further research to develop an evidence-based YiP model for training and supervision. [Extracted from the article]

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is commonly known as chronic indigestion and manifests as a group of upper gastrointestinal symptoms such as epigastric pain or burning, postprandial fullness, bloating, belching, nausea, vomiting, and early satiety without any organic or structural cause. In Ayurveda, these symptoms can be considered Ajīrna. A 25-year-old male patient with FD, taking on and off conventional treatment for the past few months without much relief, presented to the outpatient department. As the pathophysiology of FD is complex and multifactorial, it is difficult to manage it only with oral medication. Pawanamuktāsana-II and Vajrāsana were advised, along with Hingwāșțaka Cūrna, to manage the related symptoms. After 4 months of treatment, the signs and symptoms of the disease significantly decreased. The present case report elucidates the role of Yoga as an adjuvant therapy in the Āyurvedic management of FD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major lifestyle disorder with multiple systemic complications. Although conventional treatments have been able to combat the symptoms and complications, it has not been able to provide long-lasting control, hence yoga is considered more effective and alternate method of controlling diabetes mellitus. Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of yoga protocol on heart rate variability (HRV), glycemic control, and anthropometric parameters in T2DM individuals. Materials and Methods: This is a randomized, comparative study design. A total of 100 participants who met the inclusion criteria were randomly allocated into two groups, the test group (n = 50) received yogic protocol along with pharmacological treatment and the control group (n = 50) was on conventional treatment with regular activities for 90 days. The pre--post assessments of HRV, anthropometric measurements, and blood samples were collected at baseline and after 3 months. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. Results: The experimental group showed significant decrease in blood pressure, heart rate, low frequency (LF), LF/HF, blood glucose, HbA1c and anthropometric parameters as compared to control group. However, there was no significant effect of yoga therapy on waist-hip ratio. Conclusion: The result of the present study demonstrated that yoga is effective in reducing blood glucose levels in patients with T2DM. Hence, the given specific yogic intervention can be clinically used in the management of T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To develop a generic yoga therapy protocol for nonspecific chronic low back pain (NCLBP) on the basis of previous research studies. Methods: A comprehensive PubMed search was done using keywords of "yoga" and "back pain" for English-language articles published till November 2022. PubMed showed 332 results for the keywords from 1977 to 2022. Twenty-nine studies were found eligible and the consolidation of yogic techniques were used in the studies. The study compiled 72 yogic techniques, including Asana and Pranayama, from 332 articles on yoga and back pain. Out of these, 151 were not relevant to yoga or back pain. After analyzing 181 articles, 33 were selected for review for a yoga therapy protocol, with four excluded due to inability to access full-text articles. The protocol was later validated by 14 eminent yoga therapy experts across the globe from countries including Australia, France, USA, Canada, Italy, Switzerland, and India, who had a minimum of 10 years' experience in the field. The validation of the techniques was done based on a questionnaire that required classification under three categories: (1) not necessary, (2) useful but not essential, and (3) essential. All the three categories were then segregated in decreasing order of "Essential percentage" and "Weightage percentage" and the final list developed. The cutoff was that the yogic techniques must have ≥50% of acceptance by all experts. The practices were then sequenced in order of performance and cross referenced with traditional teachings. Results: The Generic Yoga Therapy Protocol for NCLBP that has been developed through this rational and logical mechanism has 18 yogic techniques selected on the basis of weightage and essential percentage. It includes 13 standing, sitting, prone, and supine postures (Asanas), four energy modulating breathing practices (Pranayamas), and one relaxation. The Shavasan relaxation received 100% approval by all experts. Conclusion: This generic yoga therapy protocol for NCLBP was developed through a comprehensive methodology that took into account the techniques used in previous research studies and was consolidated after a method of scientific validation by 14 eminent yoga therapy experts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The present research was undertaken to investigate the effect of yoga on pulmonary function and early clinical outcomes in patients scheduled for bariatric surgery. Materials and Methods: This research with a randomized control group was performed on patients scheduled for bariatric surgery between October 2021 and June 2022 in the General Surgery Clinic of a University Hospital in Eastern Turkey. The sample consists of 100 randomized patients who received yoga breathing exercises and routine care. Pulmonary function test (PFT), posteroanterior chest X-rays (CXR), 6-min walk test, and oxygen saturation (SpO2) were applied as a pretest. The researcher practiced yoga for 40 min every day of the week. Post-test measurements were performed at the end of the yoga practice. Control group patients underwent the tests at the same intervals without any modifications to the standard clinical protocol. Results: The difference between the control and experimental groups was significant in terms of post-test PFT measurements (p < 0.001). In the CXR of the patients, a statistically significant improvement was determined in 61.5% of the patients with yoga breathing practice (p < 0.001). Also, there was a significant increase in the 6-min walk test and SpO2 values in the experimental group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Yoga practice positively affected the pulmonary function values of the patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Test anxiety (TA) is a form of social evaluation anxiety experienced by individuals in a setting of assessment. Studies among students have reported an anxiety rate of 10%–30% which affectstheir overall performance. On analyzing the symptoms of TA, it isfound that, there is a predominance of imbalance of Vata and Pitta humor. Jatamansi (Nardostachys Jatamansi [D. Don] DC.) hasthe property to balance all three Sharira Dosha (body humor) along with Manasa Dosha (psychic humor) and is hence widely used in psychiatric conditions. Severalstudies concluded that Yoga therapy is effective in various anxiety conditions. Aim: As the reported trials are less in TA from the Ayurvedic fraternity, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of Jatamansi and Yoga in test anxiety (TA) of school‑going children. Materials and methods: Four hundred higher secondary students with age group 15‑17 Yrs. were screened with TA self‑assessment questionnaire after the quarterly examination. The 32 students satisfying the criteria and with informed assent, were selected for intervention, 45 days before the half‑yearly examination. Jatamansi tablet was administered to the participants at the dose of two tablets (each of 500 mg) twice daily at 7 am and 7 pm with lukewarm water along with practicing 50 min of the selected Yoga module in the morning, continuously for 1 month. Assessments were done by the Westside TA scale (WSTAS) and Suinn TA behavior scale (STABS) before and after the intervention and after the half‑yearly examination. The data were analyzed using paired “t‑test.” Results: The total score of the WSTAS showed a statistically significant effect at the level of P < 0.001, which is suggestive of improvement in the wandering of mind, improving confidence, and concentration ability during the examination. Similarly, the total score of the STABS showed a statistically significant effect at the level of P < 0.001 suggesting improvement in anxious behavior during the examination. The scale showed highly significant resultsin anxiety at the level of P < 0.001 during preparation and after completing the examinations and at the level of P < 0.05. The drug does not show any drug tolerance or adverse drug reaction. Conclusion: The study concluded that there is a significant role for the Jatamansi tablet 500 mg twice daily along with a selected Yoga module for one month in reducing the test anxiety (TA) of school‑going children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hypothyroidism is a highly prevalent endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age. Patients with hypothyroidism often develop obesity, which further increasesthe risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Yoga has positive effects on hypothyroidism indices. Aim: This retrospective study evaluates the effects of a two‑week residential Yoga intervention on blood pressure and body mass index (BMI) among women with hypothyroidism and obesity. Materials and methods: Data of 98 females with a clinical diagnosis of hypothyroidism and obesity, aged between 18 and 60 years, who received two weeks of residential Yoga intervention between 2013 and 2020 at Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana, Bengaluru, India, was retrieved retrospectively. The residential Yoga intervention consisted of integrated Yoga sessions, breathing practices, devotional sessions, a simple and wholesome diet, and educational sessions every day. Data on systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and body mass index (BMI) were analyzed. Records of patients with cardiac disease, cardiorespiratory compensatory disease, hypertension, or patients on antihypertensive drugs were excluded. Results: There was a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and BMI at two weeks compared to baseline. Conclusion: A two‑week residential Yoga intervention has a positive impact on blood pressure and BMI in women with hypothyroidism and obesity. Future randomized controlled trials with larger samples and long‑term follow‑ups are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The recent development of robust indices to quantify biological aging, along with the dynamic epidemiological transitions of population aging generate the unmet need to examine the extent up to which potential interventions can delay, halt or temporarily modulate aging trajectories. Methods and analysis: The study is a two-armed, open label randomised controlled trial. We aim to recruit 166 subjects, aged 60–75 years from the residential communities and old age clubs in Bangalore city, India, who will undergo randomisation into intervention or control arms (1:1). Intervention will include yoga sessions tailored for the older adults, 1 h per day for 5 days a week, spread for 12 months. Data would be collected at the baseline, 26th week and 52nd week. The primary outcome of the study is estimation in biological age with yoga practice. The secondary outcomes will include cardinal mechanistic indicators of aging- telomere length, interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor receptor II (TNF-RII), high sensitivity c-reactive protein (hsCRP)], insulin signaling [insulin and IGF1], renal function [cystatin], senescence [growth differentiating factor 15 (GDF-15)] and cardiovascular function [N-terminal B-type natriuretic peptides (NT-proBNP)]. Analyses will be by intention-to-treat model. Ethics & dissemination: The study is approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee of Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana University, Bangalore (ID:RES/IEC-SVYASA/242/2022). Written informed consent will be obtained from each participant prior to inclusion. Trial registration number: CTRI/2022/07/044442. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: To analyze the impact of yoga and music intervention on child consumers, we selected 60 eligible child consumers from yoga and music companies. Methods: This preliminary study used a randomized controlled design to investigate whether a 16-week combined yoga and music intervention improves attention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) in 60 children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) comorbid with ODD aged 4-6 years. It also preliminarily identified which intervention is best for these children among three types: combined yoga and music, yoga-only, and musiconly interventions. We used both the parent- and teacher-rated MTA SNAP-IV ADHD Rating Scale for data collection. Results: We found that the combined yoga and music intervention had a positive effect on inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and ODD in children with comorbid ADHD and ODD. The combined yoga and music intervention was the most effective in reducing inattention (in repeated measures ANOVA effect size, 0.9; followed by the yoga- and the music-only interventions, respectively), hyperactivity/impulsivity (effect size, 0.92), and ODD behaviors (effect size, 0.93) in children with comorbid ADHD and ODD. Thus, the combined yoga and music intervention was the most effective and had a more comprehensive effect on children with combined ADHD and ODD compared with the two other interventions (i.e., yoga- and music-only interventions). Discussion: Our findings provide preliminary evidence for the use of combined yoga and music interventions on a daily basis as a safe and effective adjunctive treatment for children with comorbid ADHD and ODD. The children in the article refer to child consumers of yoga and music companies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yoga is an ancient wisdom comprising a multitude of physical and mental practices that are aimed toward a state of optimum physical, mental, social, and spiritual health. Neuropathic pain (NP) is caused by a lesion or disease of the somatosensory nervous system that is often unresponsive to currently available modes of treatment, portending an inferior quality of life for patients. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to investigate the effect and the potential role of yoga in NP syndromes. PubMed, Scopus, Elton Bryson Stephens Company (EBSCO), and Cochrane Library were screened for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effects of yoga in patients on NP. Usual care, no treatment, or any active treatments were acceptable as control interventions. Primary outcome measures were objective or subjective assessment measures of pain intensity. For each outcome, standardized mean differences and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. A total of four studies were included for qualitative synthesis. Meta-analysis of three studies revealed an overall effect (Z) in the favor of yoga as an intervention for NP, when compared to controls, although the effect was not statistically significant (three RCTs; Z = 1.10 [P = 0.27]; Heterogeneity: τ2 = 0.37; χ² = 27.78, df = 2 [P < 0.00001]; I 2 = 93%). This review divulged the overall favorable effect of yoga in NP, although it was not statistically significant. It highlights the promising role of yoga on pain intensity and quality of life in NP syndromes while showing that yoga has the advantage of being an inexpensive and easily accessible mode of therapy. Extensive research on the efficiency and safety of yoga must be conducted using robust RCTs with rigorous methodologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Yoga originated in the territory of modern India more than 3,000 years ago uses techniques for working with the musculoskeletal system, cardiorespiratory system, and attention. Currently, the effectiveness and safety of yoga in patients with various neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis (MS), is of interest to many scientists and clinicians. Purpose: The main aim of this study is to examine the effect of yoga on symptoms and quality of life in patients with MS vs physical therapy (exercise therapy) and no exercise. Methods: The patients were randomly assigned to three groups (yoga, physical therapy (PT), or waiting list). After 12 weeks of regular exercises (or the absence of them), the effect of yoga and PT on the functional status and quality of life of patients were evaluated. The data were collected during the patients' two visits to the study center – before the start of the study and at the end of the 12-week period. The in-person examination included a doctor's assessment of the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), the SF-36 quality of life questionnaire, the fatigue scale, the Berg balance scale, and the 6-min walking test. Results: A total of 36 patients finished the clinical study: thirty women and six men. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of improvement in MS symptoms as measured by the balance, walking test, and fatigue scales. However, in the analysis of eight criteria of SF-36 quality-of-life questionnaire by the covariation analysis, statistically significant differences were found in favor of the yoga group in terms of physical functioning (PF) (p =.003), life activity (VT) (p <.001), mental health (MH) (p = 013), and social functioning (SF) (p =.028). Conclusion: Thus, regular yoga classes under the guidance of qualified staff are a promising method of non-drug rehabilitation of patients with MS with motor disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the meditational processes in Vijnana Bhairava in the context of mental health. It explains that mental health, from a yogic perspective, encompasses a state of mind-intellect-ego complex and an inwardly tranquil state of being. Vijnana Bhairava is a school of yoga that focuses on achieving unity and absolute blissfulness. The article also mentions practical techniques in Vijnana Bhairava that aim to achieve universal consciousness and improve mental health. Additionally, it provides summaries of other studies that highlight the benefits of yoga in managing various health conditions. [Extracted from the article]

Background: The treatment for Parkinson's disease (PD) consumes a lot of manpower and financial resources. Non-pharmacological alternative motor-/sensory-based interventions are optimized for the rehabilitation of PD patients. Mindfulness-based therapy shows ideal efficacy, but the diversity of the therapy brings difficulties to the selection of clinicians and patients. Methods: Network meta-analysis in the Bayesian framework was used to evaluate the efficacy of non-pharmacological alternative motor-/sensory-based interventions in improving motor and non-motor symptoms in PD patients. Results: A total of 58 studies (2,227 patients) were included. Compared with the non-intervention group, qigong was associated with improved outcomes in the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test (mean difference (MD) -5.54, 95% confidence interval (CI) -8.28 to -2.77), and UPDRS-I (MD -15.50, 95% CI -19.93 to -7.63). Differences between non-pharmacological alternative motor-/sensory-based interventions were not significant for PDQ-39, UPDRS-I, or UPDRS-II; however, qigong was superior to dance (MD -3.91, 95% CI -6.90 to -0.95), Tai Chi (MD -3.54, 95% CI -6.53 to -0.69), acupuncture (MD -6.75, 95% CI -10.86 to -2.70), music (MD -3.91, 95% CI -7.49 to -0.48), and exercise (MD -3.91, 95% CI -6.49 to -1.33) in the TUG test. Conclusion: This network meta-analysis supports mindfulness-based therapy (e.g., qigong, yoga, and Tai Chi) as a preferred non-pharmacological alternative motor-/sensory-based intervention for PD rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Healthy lifestyle modifications can prevent hypertension, an early predictor of cardiovascular disease. Yoga is an effective way to manage stress-induced disorders, such as hypertension. Objective: This study investigated the effects of yoga training on hypertensive individuals receiving routine treatment over a 12-week period, comparing and analyzing heart rate variability (HRV) parameters at and after the 12-week yoga training period (the 12th week) with hypertensives receiving routine treatment (the non-yoga group). Materials and methods: A total of 132 hypertensive subjects between the ages of 25 and 45 were randomly assigned to control or experimental groups (N=66), and 66 of these subjects were exposed to yoga therapy (N=66). Before, after, and during the study period, HRV parameters were obtained. Results: RM ANOVA was used to compare time domain and frequency domain parameters of HRV of the control group at pre, post, and detrain, and it was found that no significant difference existed between the groups. Test group mean values show a significant increase in time domain parameters compared with pre-training values after training. Test group post-training and detrain values significantly increased when compared to control group post-training and detrain values. Test group detrain values decreased significantly from post-training to test group detrain values. Conclusion: Yoga therapy increases the HRV values in essential hypertension at rest. An increase in vagal modulation, a reduction in sympathetic activity, and an increase in baroreflex sensitivity may be responsible for the harmonization of autonomic cardiovascular rhythms. The results of detraining from yoga did not result in an increase in HRV. As a result, the present study shows that regular yoga practice reduces hypertension, and deep rest keeps the body healthy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To identify and synthesize existing research on the effectiveness and feasibility of multiform humor therapy on people suffering from depression or anxiety, with the hope of benefiting future research. Methods: An integrative literature review of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed studies was performed. The PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, and CINAHL databases were searched up to March 2022. Two independent reviewers conducted each stage of the review process, by assessing eligibility using preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta‐analyses (PRISMA) and quality appraisal using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool, and data extraction. Results: In this integrative review, 29 papers were included, containing 2964 participants across a diverse range of studies, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods. The articles were from the United States, Australia, Italy, Turkey, South Korea, Iran, Israel, China, and Germany. The findings indicated that most of the subjects thought humor therapy was effective in improving depression and anxiety while a few participants considered the effect insignificant. However, more high‐quality studies will be needed to confirm these conclusions. Discussion: This review collated and summarized findings from studies examining the impact of humor therapy (medical clowns, laughter therapy/yoga) on people with depression or anxiety, including children undergoing surgery or anesthesia, older people in nursing homes, patients with Parkinson's disease, cancer, mental illness, and undergoing dialysis, retired women, and college students. The results from this review may help inform future research, policy, and practice in humor therapy to improve people's symptoms of depression and anxiety. Impact: This systematic review objectively evaluated the effect of humor therapy on depression and anxiety. As a simple and feasible complementary alternative therapy, humor therapy may provide a favorable alternative for clinicians, nurses, and patients in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Prediabetes is demarcated as an intervening stage between normal glucose tolerance and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of the Integrated approach of yoga therapy on linear and nonlinear dynamics of heart rate variability (HRV) and correlate between a linear component, frequency domain with a nonlinear component, Poincaré plot of HRV. Method: The present study was carried out in the Department of Physiology, RUHS College of Medical Sciences and associated hospitals, (RUHSCMS) Jaipur. A total of 250 prediabetics were recruited. Group B (n = 125) was involved in the Integrated Approach of Yoga Therapy (IAYT) including prayer, omkar recitation, yoga postures, breathing techniques, savasana, counseling, and dietary modification, and Group A (n = 125) was not involved in any yoga sessions. Result: In this study, an attempt has been made to assess specifically the nonlinear dynamics of HRV using a Poincaré plot after the integrated approach of yoga therapy and compare it with that of the frequency domain of HRV assessed by linear measures. The high-frequency (HF) power (HF) (46.04 ± 11.75 to 67.56 ± 13.06) and standard deviation (SD1) (28.75 ± 3.15 to 45.66 ± 2.15) were increased and low-frequency (LF) power (66.67 ± 11.87 to 40.67 ± 13.9) and the SD2 (55.76 ± 1.15 to 44.88 ± 2.15) of the Poincaré plot decreased compared to baseline parameters of participants who followed the integrated approach of yoga therapy. Additionally, significant correlations were found between HF and SD1 (P < 0.05), LF and SD2, (P < 0.05), LF/HF ratio, and SD2/SD1 (P < 0.01). Conclusion: Regular practice of the Integrated approach of yoga therapy can emerge as an important non-pharmacological tool for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease and restoring sympathovagal balance. Poincaré plot analysis is easier and more sensitive for analysis of the sympathovagal balance and observing the variation in heartbeats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fibromyalgia (FM) is characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, stiffness, sleep irregularities, and tenderness of joints and muscles due to dysregulation of neurophysiological functions. It is more common in women compared to men. Till now, there is no specific treatment available for FM. The review aimed to review the literature on the effect of yogic practices on FM. The search was done in the following databases: Google Scholar and PubMed. The articles were searched using the keywords, FM, FM syndrome, Yoga, Pranayama, Yogic practices, and alternative therapy, without date restrictions which yielded 28 results, and eight articles were included in the final review. A review of the included articles showed the significant role of yogic practices in managing symptoms of FM, including stiffness, pain, sleep disturbance, fatigue, and depression. The yogic interventions such as asanas, Surya Namaskar, Nadi Shodhana Pranayama, and mindfulness meditation of specific duration were helpful in relieving the symptoms of FM. Yogic practices are helpful in the management of FM symptoms. Future randomized controlled trials contrasting various forms of yoga or exercise, however, will enable the identification of the most efficient treatments for FM and allow for more precise targeting of the patients who will benefit most from them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Women are vulnerable during pregnancy as they experience multiple physical and psychological problems which can lead to stress and poor quality of life ultimately affecting the development of the fetus and their health during and after pregnancy. Prior evidence suggests that prenatal yoga can improve maternal health and well-being and can have a beneficial effect on immune system functioning. To date, no study has been conducted in a rural, low-resource setting in India to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a yoga-based intervention on perceived stress, quality of life, pro-inflammatory biomarkers, and symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections. Methods: To address this gap and assess whether a yoga-based intervention could improve maternal mental health and immunity during the COVID-19 crisis (Yoga-M2 trial), a single-blind individual randomized parallel group-controlled pilot trial with a 1:1 allocation ratio was implemented. We randomly allocated 51 adult pregnant women, with gestational age between 12-24 weeks in the Yoga-M2 arm (n=25) or the enhanced usual care arm(EUC) (n=26). Feasibility and acceptability were assessed using the process data and In-Depth Interviews (IDIs) with the trial participants and yoga instructors. Multiple linear regression was used to compare follow-up scores for quantitative outcomes. Results: A three-month follow-up assessment was completed for 48 out of 51 participants (94.12%). We did not find any statistically significant difference between both arms in total Perceived Stress Scale scores, quality of life (Eq-5D-5L index), and serum C Reactive Protein levels at the three-month follow-up assessment. The critical barriers to practicing yoga were lack of knowledge about the benefits of yoga, lack of 'felt need' to practice yoga, lack of time to practice, lack of space, lack of transport, and lack of peer group to practice yoga. Despite this, women who regularly practiced yoga described the benefits and factors which motivated them to practice regularly. Discussion: The learnings fromthis trial will help design the explanatory trial in the future and the study findings can also be used by the primary health care systemto deliver yoga-based interventions in the newly created health and wellness centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to observe the efficacy of yoga on insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes (T2D). Materials and methods: The present systematic review and meta-analysis were done following the PRISMA guidelines. Data were collected through specific keyword searches from eminent databases. The risk of bias in included studies was assessed, using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan software. Forest plots were used to illustrate the study findings and meta-analysis results. Results: A total of six studies were finally included in this systematic review, where 375 participants were allocated to a yoga intervention with the control group, and the age range of participants was 15-75 years. In the yoga group compared to the control, there was a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose (FBG) by 33.02 mg/dL, post-prandial blood glucose (PPBG) by 62.54 mg/dL, fasting insulin by 4.95 µIU/mL and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) by 2.81 in the meta-analysis. Conclusions: Regular yogic practice with oral hypoglycemic agents (OHA) have positive effects on insulin resistance compared to the control group (no regular exercise with OHA) in patients with type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies have suggested that fingolimod, a sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor modulator, exerts neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. Although fingolimod is approved for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, limited studies have investigated its effects in patients with schizophrenia. This study investigated the efficacy and safety of fingolimod adjuvant to risperidone in schizophrenia treatment. This eight-week, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial included 80 (clinical trials registry code: IRCT20090117001556N137) patients with chronic schizophrenia. Participants were assigned to two equal arms and received risperidone plus either fingolimod (0.5 mg/day) or a matched placebo. The positive and negative symptom scale (PANSS) was used to measure and compare the effectiveness of treatment strategies at baseline and weeks 2, 4, 6, and 8. Treatment side effects were also compared. Seventy participants completed the trial (35 in each arm). The baseline characteristics of the groups were comparable (P -value > 0.05). There were significant time-treatment interaction effects on negative symptoms (P -value = 0.003), general symptoms (P-value = 0.037), and the PANSS total score (P-value = 0.035), suggesting greater improvement in symptoms following the fingolimod adjuvant therapy. In contrast, the longitudinal changes in positive and depressive symptoms were similar between the groups (P -values > 0.05). Regarding the safety of treatments, there were no differences in extrapyramidal symptoms [assessed by the extrapyramidal symptom rating scale (ESRS)] or frequency of other complications between the fingolimod and the placebo groups (P -values > 0.05). This study indicated that fingolimod is a safe and effective adjuvant agent for schizophrenia treatment. However, further clinical trials are required to suggest extensive clinical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the efficacy of the postures, breath control techniques, and meditative states of yoga, specifically Haṭha Yoga, in promoting overall mental and physical health. It then examines whether this form of yoga could be effective in reducing morbidity or serious illness during the COVID-19 pandemic. We assess the potential efficacy of three claims made for Haṭha Yoga. They are the following: (1) breathing exercises associated with yoga may help maintain pulmonary health and protect the upper respiratory tract, the portal of entry for the SARS-CoV-2 virus infection; (2) improved immunity resulting from sustained yoga practice may help prevent COVID-19 contraction; (3) stress reduction of yoga may be effective in maintaining the mental well-being needed to combat the extra stress of living during a pandemic. Related to this claim, we examine testimony to the effect that yoga also gave people meaning and purpose in their lives during the isolating lockdown period. While exploring these beneficent advantages, we further address a serious health-related counterclaim that the community practice of yoga has the potential to create conditions that facilitate disease transmission due to heavy breathing in small, enclosed spaces. This balanced analysis introduces an interesting tension relevant to public health policy, namely that well-intended attempts to minimize indoor interaction for the sake of reducing the spread of infection may impact the effectiveness of yogic therapies and impede the freedom to practice the spiritual discipline of yoga. They may also not reduce the spread of infection enough to warrant their damaging effects on yoga practice. We suggest ways for resolving this tension and conclude with some concrete recommendations for facilitating yoga practice in future pandemics. These include (1) that public health policymakers consider programs that provide access to yoga by ensuring hospital prayer rooms appropriate in size and that, where feasible, yoga studios conduct their lessons outside in open areas; (2) that resources be devoted to providing therapeutic access to virtual yoga as a federal program, despite potential resistance to this idea of government involvement due to concerns that yoga has its origins in heterodox religious practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite their significant distress, supportive care interventions for caregivers of glioma patients are generally lacking. And, whether caregivers are more likely to benefit from interventions targeting patient‐caregiver dyads or caregivers individually is unknown. This pilot randomized controlled trial compared the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a dyadic yoga (DY) versus an individual caregiver yoga (CY) intervention as a supportive care strategy for family caregivers. Methods: Patient‐caregiver dyads were randomized to a DY, CY or usual care (UC) arm. DY and CY interventions were delivered over 15 sessions. Caregivers completed assessments of their depressive symptoms, quality of life (QOL), and caregiving reactions at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks, and a subset completed qualitative interviews at 12 weeks. Results: With a consent rate of 63%, 67 dyads were randomized. Attendance in the DY was higher than in the CY group (session means, DY = 12.23, CY = 9.00; p = 0.06). Caregivers (79% female; 78% non‐Hispanic White; mean age, 53 years) reported significantly more subjective benefit in the CY arm than in the DY arm (d = 2.1; p <.01), which was consistent with the qualitative assessment. There were medium effect sizes for improved mental QOL (d = 0.46) and financial burden (d = 0.53) in favor of the CY over the UC group. Caregivers in the CY group reported more caregiving esteem (d = 0.56) and less health decline (d = 0.60) than those in the DY group. Conclusion: Individual rather than dyadic delivery may be a superior supportive care approach for this vulnerable caregiver population. A larger, adequately powered efficacy trial is warranted. Despite lower intervention session attendance, caregivers in the individual yoga arm reported greater subjective overall benefit, experienced better mental QOL and less caregiver burden compared with those in the patient‐caregiver dyadic yoga and usual care comparison arms. Individual rather than dyadic delivery may be a superior supportive care approach for family caregivers of glioma patients. An adequately powered, larger efficacy trial is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Yoga improved fatigue and immunological profile in cancer survivors and has been a promising alternative therapy. Breast cancer treatments are rapidly improving, along with their side effects. This article investigated the effect of the yogic intervention at a different time interval during radiotherapy/chemotherapy on the pro- and anti-inflammatory interleukins along with the cancer-related fatigue and functional scale among patients with stage II/III breast cancer. Methods: A total of 96 stage II/III breast cancer patients were enrolled in this study and randomly divided into two different groups. Group I (non-Yoga) received chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy and group II (Yoga) received an additional yogic intervention. Both groups were followed up for a period of 48 weeks and blood was collected at the time of enrollment, 16, 32, and 48 weeks, and serum was isolated to measure the pro- and anti-inflammatory interleukins, fatigue, and functional scale questionnaire obtained at each time point. Results: Breast cancer patients in group II showed a significant improvement (p < 0.05) in the functional scale and fatigue from baseline to 48 weeks compared to group I. The yogic intervention significantly decreased (p < 0.05) the level of pro-inflammatory interleukin IL-1β and pleiotropic interleukin IL-10 in group II compared to group I. Conclusion: These finding suggested that improved fatigue and functional scale is associated with a lower level of IL-1β and IL-10. Yoga may be an important additional therapy along with the cancer treatment to help the patients with cancer-related fatigue and improve their overall immunological profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In conventional healthcare, patients’ preferences for their treatment are determined, though this practice has not been reported for yoga therapy. The present convenience sampling exploratory survey attempted to determine whether those seeking yoga therapy would report preferences for the way yoga therapy is implemented, the therapist’s knowledge, and related aspects of yoga therapy. Responses from 426 people attending a yoga therapy institution in India were analyzed. Based on the chi-square test (p < 0.05) and Cramer’s V (> 0.10), most people wished to receive yoga therapy in a group of others with a similar disease (42.25%), in a yoga institution (83.57%), and as in-person sessions (48.83%). Patients preferred yoga therapists to know about the principles of yoga (40.38%), to be well-informed generally (61.97%), and to be able to give suggestions for emotional well-being. For the majority of participants (59.4%), the reason for selecting yoga therapy was “a belief in yoga as therapy” (rather than as an add-on therapy or as a last resort). Patients’ expectations of yoga therapy were positive, namely a cure of disease (79.34%) and improvement after 1 year (95.8%). Most patients (91.6%) wanted their conventional medicine practitioner to know that they were receiving yoga therapy. Although limited by the study design, survey design, and participant details available, overall results suggest that patients (1) reported specific preferences (for the implementation of yoga therapy and for yoga therapists’ knowledge), (2) had expectations of yoga therapy, and (3) most often were interested in their conventional care physicians being informed about the yoga therapy they received. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spinal cord injury causes temporary or permanent loss of motor, sensory, or autonomic functions, leading to long-term impairments that are not only confined to physical attributes but also restrict individuals’ participation in major domains of life. Around 60%–80% of individuals with spinal cord injuries depend on a wheelchair for mobility. Numerous studies have reported yoga’s beneficial role in alleviating spinal cord injury symptoms; however, a validated wheelchair-based yoga module was unavailable. Thus, the present study aimed to develop and validate a wheelchair-based yoga module that comprises a printed protocol for individuals with paraplegia. The study was conducted in four phases: The first three phases were the steps for the formulation of a wheelchair-based yoga module, and in the last phase the content validity of the designed module was determined by a panel of 10 experts, who were asked to rate the preliminary module for its necessity and relevance using a Likert scale. A total of 17 yoga practices with high content validity were included in the final wheelchair-based yoga module, and 10 practices with lower content validity were excluded from the designed module. Data analysis revealed the mean content validation index of the designed module to be 0.81. This study concludes that the formulated wheelchair-based yoga module is valid for individuals with paraplegia. However, future studies need to be conducted to determine the protocol’s feasibility and effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic pain is the most common reason U.S. adults seek medical care. Acupuncture and yoga show effectiveness, and a recent study assessed the feasibility of these two modalities for chronic pain at federally qualified health centers. Yoga research is rarely individualized, which is important for chronic pain treatments. Six experienced yoga professionals drew on research and clinical experience to co-create a yoga therapy protocol standardized for replication with flexibility for individual care. Yoga therapy was to be combined with a previously developed flexible acupuncture intervention in a feasibility trial. Categories of practices were identified as relevant and appropriate for chronic pain management in a federally qualified health center. Within each category, specific practices were listed for each provider to select as appropriate. These were based on usefulness for chronic pain, safety, ease of teaching/learning, and cultural appropriateness. The final manual included: (1) stabilizing poses, (2) mobilizing poses, (3) breathing practices, (4) relaxation, (5) mental practices, and (6) applied philosophy. Each participant began with an intake to inform practice selection. Ten subsequent sessions were 30 minutes each, with 1-2 participants receiving simultaneous care. First sessions included diaphragmatic breathing and some physical postures. All practices were adapted. Over 10 sessions, at least one practice from each category was included. Participants were given instructions/images for home practice. Individual charting ensured continuity of care and consistency across sessions. In evidence-informed practice, there exists a tension between replicability and individualization. A flexible protocol allows both. Future application in research and clinical settings will help to determine feasibility and effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent decades, there has been more significant implementation and research of yoga programs in prisons and correctional facilities. Existing literature suggests that adult and juvenile prison-based yoga programs may improve stress-management and self-regulation skills; reduce depression, anxiety, aggression, and addictive behaviors; and increase prosocial behaviors. However, yoga in juvenile correctional facilities is still understudied compared to adult populations. The Prison Yoga Project (PYP) and Yoga FLAME (Focus, Letting go, Anger management, Mindfulness, and Exhaling negativity) are two frameworks used to structure the implementation of prison-based yoga programs among incarcerated adolescents. The present study aimed to describe trauma-related stress and self-regulation levels in a sample of incarcerated youth and to explore yoga's effects on developing stress-reduction skills. The study collected measures on overall and in-session stress reduction and baseline self-regulation. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and public-safety restrictions, the present study was prematurely terminated after 5 months. Only pre-assessment measures were collected. Across time, participants reported a 38% mean stress reduction from the beginning to the end of a yoga session. Incarcerated youth with higher initial self-regulation levels showed higher pre- to post-session improvements in stress. The present findings provide valuable evidence that yoga practice using the combined PYP and FLAME framework can deliver practical benefits to juvenile correctional facilities. Furthermore, yoga may be used to foster rehabilitation, enhance skill development, and facilitate greater success in youth transitioning back into the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Yoga was associated with significant improvements in PTSD and depression symptoms. • TCTSY, Kundalini, Satyananda, and Holistic yoga were most effective for PTSD. • No serious adverse events were indicated in the six studies that reported them. Yoga is an increasingly popular complementary intervention to reduce posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and related comorbidities, but its safety and treatment efficacy are not firmly established. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of existing randomized control trials (RCTs) of yoga interventions for PTSD and related secondary outcomes (e.g., depression). Initial search results found over 668 potential papers. Twenty met inclusion criteria (e.g., RCTs on adult participants with PTSD that evaluated safety or efficacy outcomes). Meta-analysis indicated that, compared to control interventions, participation in yoga interventions significantly improved self-report PTSD (standardized mean difference [SMD]: -0.51; 95 % confidence interval [CI]: -0.68, -0.35) and immediate (SMD: -0.39; 95 % CI: -0.56, -0.22) and long-term (SMD: -0.44; 95 % CI: -0.74, -0.13) depression symptoms. However, using clinician-reported assessments, yoga interventions were not associated with improved PTSD symptoms. Type of yoga differentially predicted outcomes. Sensitivity analysis showed consistent effect sizes when omitting each study from main analyses. Six studies reported whether any serious adverse events occurred. None were indicated. No publication bias was found, although individual intervention studies tended to be high in bias. Results suggest yoga is likely a safe and effective complementary intervention for reducing PTSD and depressive symptoms in individuals with PTSD. More rigorous RCTs are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]