Yoga is a practice that can benefit the body, mind, and soul in various ways. It can be approached from a psychosomatic, physical, or spiritual perspective, and provides a range of health benefits. Practicing yoga can help rejuvenate the body while also promoting a sense of tranquility. Whether you’re seeking an energy boost or looking to reduce stress levels, yoga can be a valuable tool.
Through regular yoga practice, one can profoundly enhance the functioning of the nervous system, resulting in a harmonious balance between the body and mind. In this article, we will delve into some research confirming the myriad benefits yoga offers to the autonomic nervous system, ultimately leading to remarkable improvements in both physical and psychological well-being.
1. Effect of Long-Term Yoga Training on Autonomic Function Among Healthy Adults
Autonomic dysfunction, a common complication in noncommunicable diseases, has been proven to significantly improve with regular yoga practice. To delve deeper into this topic, this study aimed to compare the autonomic functions of individuals who practice yoga and those who do not.
Regular practice of yoga has been found to have a positive impact on the body’s stress response system. The latest study unveiled that individuals who regularly engage in yoga experience a decrease in sympathetic activity, which is associated with the “fight-or-flight” response, and an enhancement in parasympathetic activity, which promotes relaxation and tranquility.
For more details, read here.
2. Effect of Yoga on Autonomic Functions and Psychological Status During Both Phases of Menstrual Cycle in Young Healthy Females
Yoga has been recognized as a beneficial practice for various psycho-somatic disorders, including premenstrual stress, which affects a significant 75% of women in their childbearing age.
To delve deeper into the positive impact of integrated yoga, a study was conducted to examine how it affects autonomic parameters and psychological well-being in young, healthy females. This investigation explored the effects during both the pre and post-phases of the menstrual cycle.
This study found that young, healthy females experience significant changes in their autonomic functions and psychological status during the premenstrual phase compared to the postmenstrual phase.
However, the regular practice of yoga has proven to have positive effects on both phases of the menstrual cycle. By promoting parasympathodominance and enhancing psychological well-being, yoga works to balance the neuro-endocrinal axis.
Read here to know more.
3. Effects of Yoga on the Autonomic Nervous System, Gamma-Aminobutyric-Acid, and Allostasis in Epilepsy, Depression, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
A theory proposes that practicing yoga can help improve various medical conditions by reducing stress and restoring optimal balance in the body. This is achieved by addressing imbalances in the autonomic nervous system, increasing the activity of the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter system, and reducing overall stress levels.
Findings from this study suggest that engaging in yoga can help alleviate symptoms of stress-related disorders by correcting decreased PNS and GABAergic activity.
This has significant implications for using yoga-based practices in treating a wide range of conditions aggravated by stress. Incorporating yoga into treatment approaches can potentially provide long-lasting benefits for individuals affected by such disorders.
Read here the full research.
4. Effects Of Maternity Yoga On The Autonomic Nervous System During Pregnancy
This study aimed to examine how maternity yoga affects the autonomic nervous system during pregnancy and its impact on stress and sleep. The research included pregnant women attending maternity yoga classes and a control group.
Participants completed questionnaires on stress and sleep, while stress levels were measured through heart rate variability and salivary α-amylase levels at different stages of pregnancy.
Practicing yoga during the third trimester of pregnancy has shown remarkable effects on expectant mothers. This research has revealed that it activates the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to enhanced sleep quality at night. Additionally, levels of α-amylase, a stress indicator, significantly decrease as a result.
This compelling evidence indicates that incorporating yoga into the routine can reduce stress and promote overall well-being for pregnant women.
To know more details about this research, visit here.
5. Effect Of Integrated Approach Of Yoga Therapy On Autonomic Functions In Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
The study investigated the effects of an integrated approach of yoga therapy (IAYT) on autonomic functions in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Fifteen patients with type 2 diabetes, aged between 35 and 60 years, participated in the study.
Assessments were conducted before and after one week of practicing yoga. The study measured heart rate variability, blood pressure response to isometric handgrip, and heart rate response to deep breathing. The findings aimed to determine if IAYT could modulate autonomic functions in type 2 diabetics.
The study suggests that IAYT helped type 2 diabetes patients by greatly improving their autonomic functions, resulting in significant positive outcomes.
Read here for more details.
To Conclude,
Join our 6-day digital certificate Medical Yoga Science program on the Anatomy and Physiology of the Autonomic Nervous System with Dr. Vineeta Ketkar, a trusted physician with 40 years of experience. Discover how yogic practices can stabilize your Autonomic nervous system (ANS). Gain insights into the body’s stress response and the inner workings of your autonomic nervous system. This program is ideal for doctors, yoga instructors, and life coaches who want to enhance their understanding of how yogic applications can effectively calm the ANS.
Medical Yoga Science brings countless benefits to the yogic journey. One experiences the magic of a longer, healthier life filled with vitality and a remarkable quality of life. This blend allows transformative practice to guide you toward longevity by harmonizing your body, mind, and spirit.
So sign up now for the program Six Days Anatomy & Physiology of Autonomic Nervous System for Yogic Science starting from 1st Dec 2023.
Program Highlights
Anatomy & Physiology to ANS with Yogic Application
Anatomy – Lecture 1: Organization & Distribution of ANS
Anatomy – Lecture 2: Structure of Sympathetic & Parasympathetic System
Physiology – Lecture 1: Spectrum of Actions of ANS
Physiology – Lecture 2: Higher Control of ANS & Visceral Reflexes
Yogic Application – Day 1: Ashtanga Yoga & Hatha Yoga: Techniques to reach ANS
Yogic Application – Day 2: Ashtanga Yoga & Hatha Yoga: Techniques to reach ANS
