Efficacy of Sudarshan kriya Yoga in Enhancing Comprehensive Well-Being

Yogic breathing is a unique method for balancing the ANS and influencing psychology and stress related disorders. Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) is a form of yoga practice that emphasizes rhythmic breathing exercises. The present study was undertaken with an aim to study the effect of SKY on stress levels as well as mental health of participants. The pre and post study involved a sample of 14 (7 males, 7 females) with age range from 23 to 60 years. Perceived Stress Scale, Self Esteem Scale and Mental Health Index which measures anxiety, depression, loss of behavioral/ environmental control, general positive affect, life satisfaction, psychological distress, psychological well being as well as a global mental health were administered. Results indicate that there is a significant decrease in anxiety and depression levels, increase in GPA, and increase in level of psychological well being, more life satisfaction and improved MHI score post intervention. Although no improvement was observed in the feelings of psychological distress, there was a highly significant rise in levels of psychological well-being. However, no improvements in the levels of self esteem or emotional ties have been observed. Implications of introduction of such programs in meeting the challenges of day to day life as well as for addressing specific problems have been discussed.