Effective treatment of iyengar yoga: A Synthesis of Findings from 26 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Major Research Findings

Research on Iyengar yoga has shown potential benefits for a range of health conditions. For example, a study ( 18 ) found that an intervention combining Iyengar yoga and coherent breathing may reduce symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD). Another study ( 24 ) suggests that Iyengar yoga could improve symptoms in adolescents and young adults with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Additionally, a systematic review ( 12 ) found that yoga therapy may be a safe and feasible intervention for managing lymphedema, increasing range of motion, and improving quality of life in breast cancer survivors. These studies suggest that Iyengar yoga may have beneficial effects on various health issues, however, further research is needed.

Benefits and Risks

Benefits Summary

Iyengar yoga has shown potential benefits in a variety of areas based on research, including ( 18 ), ( 24 ), and ( 12 ).

  • Reducing symptoms of depression
  • Improving symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Managing lymphedema in breast cancer survivors
  • Increasing range of motion
  • Improving quality of life

Risks Summary

Currently, there is no clear research on the risks associated with Iyengar yoga. However, one study ( 11 ) found that integrative yoga classes, which combine physical exercises, mindfulness training, and philosophical aspects of yoga, were more effective in reducing stress than traditional yoga classes. It's important to practice yoga within a safe and suitable range for your physical condition, as individual fitness levels and flexibility vary. Those with injuries or illnesses should consult a doctor or yoga instructor before starting.

Comparison Across Studies

Commonalities

Multiple studies consistently indicate that Iyengar yoga holds potential benefits for a range of health concerns. Particularly, research has consistently demonstrated positive effects on stress reduction, mental well-being, and improving physical flexibility.

Differences

Studies differ in their focus on specific conditions, types of yoga practiced, intervention durations, and evaluation methods. For example, a study ( 18 ) focused on major depressive disorder symptoms, while another ( 24 ) focused on irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. Some studies combined Iyengar yoga with coherent breathing ( 18 ), while others solely used Iyengar yoga ( 24 ).

Consistency and Inconsistencies of Findings

An overall analysis of multiple studies suggests that Iyengar yoga may provide beneficial effects for various health conditions. However, some research shows less clear-cut results, and the effectiveness of Iyengar yoga may differ depending on the specific condition targeted and the methods of intervention used. Therefore, additional research is necessary to further clarify the effects of Iyengar yoga.

Considerations for Real-World Application

While research points to potential benefits of Iyengar yoga for various health conditions, it is important to remember that these studies focus on specific populations and that individual circumstances and physical conditions may vary. Practicing yoga safely is crucial. Those with injuries or illnesses should consult their doctor or a certified yoga instructor before starting.

Limitations of Current Research

The current research on Iyengar yoga is still limited. More research is needed. Specifically, there is a lack of studies examining the effects of Iyengar yoga on specific conditions, the optimal types and frequencies of practice, and its long-term effects.

Future Directions for Research

Future research on Iyengar yoga should include studies with larger participant groups, longer intervention periods, and a broader range of health conditions. Additionally, investigating optimal types of practice, frequency, and intensity to maximize benefits is crucial. Research should also delve into the mechanisms by which yoga practice influences physical and mental health.

Conclusion

Research suggests that Iyengar yoga may offer positive effects for various health issues, but it's important to remember that these studies focus on specific populations. Individual circumstances and physical conditions may vary. Practicing yoga safely is essential. Consult your doctor or a certified yoga instructor before starting, especially if you have injuries or illnesses. Further research is needed to better understand and clarify the benefits of Iyengar yoga.

Literature analysis of 26 papers
Positive Content
25
Neutral Content
0
Negative Content
1
Article Type
12
1
1
3
26
1.

"More than I expected": perceived benefits of yoga practice among older adults at risk for cardiovascular disease.

Author: AlexanderGina K, InnesKim E, SelfeTerry K, BrownCynthia J

Improved well-being

This study explores the perceived benefits of an 8-week gentle yoga program among older, overweight adults. The study builds upon previous research examining the effects of yoga on heart health. The focus is on understanding how participants perceived the benefits of yoga.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

2.

Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder with Iyengar Yoga and Coherent Breathing: A Randomized Controlled Dosing Study.

Author: StreeterChris C, GerbargPatricia L, WhitfieldTheodore H, OwenLiz, JohnstonJennifer, SilveriMarisa M, GenslerMarysia, FaulknerCarol L, MannCathy, WixtedMary, HernonAnne Marie, NyerMaren B, BrownE Richard P, JensenJohn E

Depressive symptom reduction

This study looked at the effects of Iyengar yoga and coherent breathing on depressive symptoms in people with major depressive disorder (MDD). The study found that both a high-dose and low-dose intervention were effective at reducing depressive symptoms and improving compliance. More people in the high-dose group achieved remission at the end of the study.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

3.

Psychological Function, Iyengar Yoga, and Coherent Breathing: A Randomized Controlled Dosing Study.

Author: ScottTammy M, GerbargPatricia L, SilveriMarisa M, NielsenGreylin H, OwenLiz, NyerMaren, BrownRichard P, StreeterChris C

Reduced depression symptoms

This study investigated the effects of an intervention combining Iyengar yoga and coherent breathing in participants with major depressive disorder (MDD). The study aims to determine the optimal intervention dose for this type of yoga therapy in treating MDD.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

4.

No effects were found in favor of Hatha or Iyengar yoga exercises for improving cancer-related fatigue, depression symptoms, or quality of life: a systematic review with meta-analysis and metaregression.

Author: García-MuñozCristina, Villar-AlisesOlga, Rodríguez-Sánchez-LaulhéPablo, Matias-SotoJavier, Martinez-CalderonJavier

Yoga effectiveness

A systematic review with meta-analysis of 11 studies found that Hatha or Iyengar yoga exercises did not improve cancer-related fatigue, depression symptoms, or quality of life in adults with cancer.

Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

6.

A Pilot Study of Iyengar Yoga for Pediatric Obesity: Effects on Gait and Emotional Functioning.

Author: HainsworthKeri R, LiuXue Cheng, SimpsonPippa M, SwartzAnn M, LinnemanNina, TranSusan T, MedranoGustavo R, MascarenhasBryant, ZhangLiyun, WeismanSteven J

Improved emotional functioning
Improved gait

This study investigated the benefits of Iyengar yoga for gait in youths with obesity. It found significant improvements in gait parameters, as well as improvements in emotional functioning.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

8.

An assessment of the effects of Iyengar yoga practice on the health-related quality of life of patients with chronic respiratory diseases: a pilot study.

Author: SantanaMaria Jose, S-ParrillaJulia, MirusJudith, LoadmanMartha, LienDale C, FeenyDavid

Breathing improvement
Energy improvement
Mobility improvement
Sleep improvement

An Iyengar yoga program (IYP) was found to significantly improve anxiety, fatigue, ambulation, pain, emotion and overall score in patients with chronic respiratory diseases, suggesting a potential benefit for these patients.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

10.

Effects of a yoga-based stress reduction intervention on stress, psychological outcomes and cardiometabolic biomarkers in cancer caregivers: A randomized controlled trial.

Author: LeeLena J, ShamburekRobert, SonHyojin, WallenGwenyth R, CoxRobert, FlynnSharon, YangLi, BevansMargaret, WehrlenLeslie, RossAlyson

Cardiometabolic Risk
Stress Reduction

This randomized controlled trial examined the effects of a yoga-based stress reduction intervention on stress, psychological outcomes, and cardiometabolic biomarkers in cancer caregivers.

Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., IntramuralFunding provided by the NIH for research projects within the NIH.

Language : English

11.

Stress Reduction by Yoga versus Mindfulness Training in Adults Suffering from Distress: A Three-Armed Randomized Controlled Trial including Qualitative Interviews (RELAX Study).

Author: FischerJan Moritz, KandilFarid-Ihab, KesslerChristian S, NayeriLucas, ZagerLaura Sophie, Rocabado HennhöferTheresa, SteckhanNico, Koppold-LiebscherDaniela A, BringmannHolger C, SchäferThomas, MichalsenAndreas, JeitlerMichael

Improved Quality of Life
Stress Reduction

This study compared the effectiveness of integrative yoga, Iyengar yoga, and mindfulness training for reducing stress levels in adults with elevated stress. The study found that all three interventions were equally effective in reducing stress, suggesting that their use in practice should be based on availability and patient preference.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

12.

Managing Lymphedema, Increasing Range of Motion, and Quality of Life through Yoga Therapy among Breast Cancer Survivors: A Systematic Review.

Author: SaraswathiVasudevan, LathaSatish, NiraimathiK, VidhubalaElangovan

Improved QOL
Improved ROM
Managed lymphedema

This systematic review examines the effects of yoga therapy on lymphedema, range of motion (ROM), and quality of life (QOL) in breast cancer survivors. The findings suggest that yoga may be a safe and feasible exercise intervention for managing lymphedema and improving QOL in this population, with moderate strength of evidence.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

13.

Psychological Function, Iyengar Yoga, and Coherent Breathing: A Randomized Controlled Dosing Study.

Author: ScottTammy M, GerbargPatricia L, SilveriMarisa M, NielsenGreylin H, OwenLiz, NyerMaren, BrownRichard P, StreeterChris C

Reduced depression symptoms

This study investigated the effects of an intervention combining Iyengar yoga and coherent breathing in participants with major depressive disorder (MDD). The study aims to determine the optimal intervention dose for this type of yoga therapy in treating MDD.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

14.

Acceptability and feasibility of a 12-week yoga vs. educational film program for the management of restless legs syndrome (RLS): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

Author: SelfeTerry Kit, WenSijin, ShermanKaren, KlattMaryanna, InnesKim E

Low-risk treatment
RLS management

This pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) will assess the acceptability and feasibility of a 12-week yoga program for the management of restless legs syndrome (RLS).

Clinical Trial ProtocolA plan for conducting a clinical trial. It describes in detail the purpose, design, methodology, and statistical considerations of the trial, ensuring the transparency and consistency of the trial.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

15.

Yoga as a Complementary Therapy for Smoking Cessation: Results From BreathEasy, a Randomized Clinical Trial.

Author: BockBeth C, DunsigerShira I, RosenRochelle K, ThindHerpreet, JenningsErnestine, FavaJoseph L, BeckerBruce M, CarmodyJames, MarcusBess H

Smoking cessation

This study is the first rigorous, randomized clinical trial of Yoga as a complementary therapy for smokers attempting to quit. Yoga may be helpful in smoking cessation by reducing stress and negative mood, and possibly aiding in weight control.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.

Language : English

17.

A randomized controlled dosing study of Iyengar yoga and coherent breathing for the treatment of major depressive disorder: Impact on suicidal ideation and safety findings.

Author: NyerMaren, GerbargPatricia L, SilveriMarisa M, JohnstonJennifer, ScottTammy M, NauphalMaya, OwenLiz, NielsenGreylin H, MischoulonDavid, BrownRichard P, FavaMaurizio, StreeterChris C

MDD treatment
Suicidal ideation reduction

This study evaluated the safety of a randomized controlled dose-finding trial of Iyengar yoga plus coherent breathing for individuals with MDD. It found the intervention to be safe and explored its potential impact on suicidal ideation.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

18.

Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder with Iyengar Yoga and Coherent Breathing: A Randomized Controlled Dosing Study.

Author: StreeterChris C, GerbargPatricia L, WhitfieldTheodore H, OwenLiz, JohnstonJennifer, SilveriMarisa M, GenslerMarysia, FaulknerCarol L, MannCathy, WixtedMary, HernonAnne Marie, NyerMaren B, BrownE Richard P, JensenJohn E

Reduced depressive symptoms

A 12-week intervention of Iyengar yoga and coherent breathing at five breaths per minute significantly reduced depressive symptoms in individuals with major depressive disorder, regardless of dose level.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

19.

Evaluation of a specialized yoga program for persons with a spinal cord injury: a pilot randomized controlled trial.

Author: CurtisKathryn, HitzigSander L, BechsgaardGitte, StolikerCandice, AltonCharlene, SaundersNicole, LeongNicole, KatzJoel

Increased self-compassion
Reduced depressive symptoms

A specialized 6-week Iyengar yoga intervention reduced depressive symptoms and increased self-compassion in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

20.

Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder with Iyengar Yoga and Coherent Breathing: A Randomized Controlled Dosing Study.

Author: StreeterChris C, GerbargPatricia L, WhitfieldTheodore H, OwenLiz, JohnstonJennifer, SilveriMarisa M, GenslerMarysia, FaulknerCarol L, MannCathy, WixtedMary, HernonAnne Marie, NyerMaren B, BrownE Richard P, JensenJohn E

Depressive symptom reduction

This study looked at the effects of Iyengar yoga and coherent breathing on depressive symptoms in people with major depressive disorder (MDD). The study found that both a high-dose and low-dose intervention were effective at reducing depressive symptoms and improving compliance. More people in the high-dose group achieved remission at the end of the study.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

22.

Effects of Yoga on Symptoms, Physical Function, and Psychosocial Outcomes in Adults with Osteoarthritis: A Focused Review.

Author: CheungCorjena, ParkJuyoung, WymanJean F

Reduced pain
Reduced stiffness
Reduced swelling

This review summarizes 12 studies examining the effects of yoga on osteoarthritis symptoms and outcomes. Yoga interventions were found to reduce pain, stiffness, and swelling, but results on physical function and psychosocial well-being were inconclusive.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

23.

Self-regulation evaluation of therapeutic yoga and walking for patients with irritable bowel syndrome: a pilot study.

Author: ShahabiLeila, NaliboffBruce D, ShapiroDavid

Improved mood
Reduced IBS symptoms

Non-medication treatments may be crucial for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a common disorder. This study evaluated the efficacy of Iyengar yoga and a walking program for symptom relief and mood management in IBS patients.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

24.

Iyengar yoga for adolescents and young adults with irritable bowel syndrome.

Author: EvansSubhadra, LungKirsten C, SeidmanLaura C, SternliebBeth, ZeltzerLonnie K, TsaoJennie C I

IBS symptom relief
Improved functioning

This study assessed the impact of a 6-week Iyengar yoga program on IBS symptoms in adolescents and young adults with IBS compared with a usual-care waitlist control group.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

25.

Heart rate variability and treatment outcome in major depression: a pilot study.

Author: JainFelipe A, CookIan A, LeuchterAndrew F, HunterAimee M, DavydovDmitry M, OttavianiCristina, TartterMolly, CrumpCaroline, ShapiroDavid

Depression treatment

This pilot study investigated the association between resting heart rate variability (HRV) and treatment outcome in major depressive disorder (MDD). Lower relative power of very low frequency (rVLF) HRV at baseline predicted improvement in depressive symptoms in both escitalopram and Iyengar yoga treatment groups. Although vagal parasympathetic measures were correlated with treatment outcome, their predictive power was not significant after adjusting for age and gender. While these findings need further confirmation due to limited sample size, they suggest rVLF as a potential biomarker for predicting MDD treatment response.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

26.

Yoga reduces inflammatory signaling in fatigued breast cancer survivors: a randomized controlled trial.

Author: BowerJulienne E, GreendaleGail, CrosswellAlexandra D, GaretDeborah, SternliebBeth, GanzPatricia A, IrwinMichael R, OlmsteadRichard, ArevaloJesusa, ColeSteve W

Breast cancer survivor fatigue

An Iyengar yoga intervention designed for fatigued breast cancer survivors may reduce inflammation-related gene expression and circulating proinflammatory cytokines, but more research is needed.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

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