Sudarshankriya Yoga for Improving Health Status and Quality of Life in Adults

Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (CSKYJ) practice designed to minimize stresses in daily life and improve the health status. The aim of this study was to assess the positive impact of sudarshan kriya program on healthy adult volunteers. We conducted an open trial on 102 apparently healthy adult volunteers to evaluate the effect of SKY practice on health, personal growth initiative and quality of life. Participants were given 6-day SKY training in three-four hour daily sessions. Main outcome measures were biochemical measures (Fasting Glucose Total cholesterol HDL, LDL, Triglycerides), PGIS for personal growth and WHOQOL Bref for quality-of-life measures (physical, emotional, social and spiritual well-being). Pre scores were compared with post scores to assess the impact of the SKY program. The scores and other measures were recorded at the beginning and end of the training period. Practice of SKY resulted in significant increase in PGIS score (t=-7.79, P < 0.001), four domain and total scores of QOL (physical health scores (t=-6.02, P < 0.001), psychological health (t=-9.43, P < 0.001), social relationships (t=-5.92, P < 0.001), environment (t=-6.03, P < 0.001).There was also a reduction in triglycerides (t=6.63, P < 0.001), fasting cholesterol (t=3.37, P = 0.013), LDL (t=2.17, P = 0.002), VLDL (t=6.67, P < 0.001)after the yoga workshop. A marginal increase was observed in fasting glucose (P = 0.009) and HDL (t=-2.51, P = 0.008). This pilot study suggests that a yoga-based wellness program is effective in creating both positive frame of mind and health and wellness for the population.