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BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies

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Open Access 01-12-2017 | Research article

Cross-sectional analysis of health-related quality of life and elements of yoga practice

Authors: Gurjeet S. Birdee, Sujata G. Ayala, Kenneth A. Wallston

Published in: BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies | Issue 1/2017

Abstract

Background

Mind-body practices such as yoga have been studied for their generally positive effects on health-related quality of life (HRQOL). The association between how a person practices yoga and the person’s HRQOL is not known.

Materials and methods

Yoga practitioners were sent invitations to participate in an online survey via email. Yoga characteristics, HRQOL, and other sociodemographics were collected. Analyses of data from 309 consenting responders evaluated associations between yoga practice characteristics (use of yoga tools, length of practice, location, method, etc.) and the 10-item PROMIS Global Health scale for both physical and mental health components.

Results

Multivariable regression models demonstrated higher mental health scores were associated with regular meditation practice, higher income, and the method of practicing in a community group class (versus one-on-one). Higher physical health scores were associated with length of lifetime practice, teacher status, Krishnamacharya yoga style, and practicing in a yoga school/studio (versus at home).

Conclusions

Meditation practice in yoga is positively associated with mental health. Length of lifetime yoga practice was significantly associated with better physical health, suggesting yoga has a potential cumulative benefit over time. Different locations and methods of practice may be associated with varying effects on health outcomes. Comparative cross-sectional and longitudinal studies on the variations in yoga practice are needed to further characterize health benefits of yoga.

What is Complementary, Alternative, or Integrative Health? National Center for Complementary and and Integrative Medicine, National Institute of Health. Available at: https://nccih.nih.gov/health/integrative-health. Accessed January 12, 2016.

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Title: Cross-sectional analysis of health-related quality of life and elements of yoga practice
Authors: Gurjeet S. Birdee
Sujata G. Ayala
Kenneth A. Wallston
Publication date: 01-12-2017
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies / Issue 1/2017
Electronic ISSN: 2662-7671
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-017-1599-1

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Cross-sectional analysis of health-related quality of life and elements of yoga practice

Abstract

Background

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusions

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