Effect of long-term yoga training on autonomic function among the healthy adults

Summary & key facts

This small cross-sectional study compared 33 regular yoga practitioners with 35 non‑practitioners aged 17–30. The yoga group had a lower resting heart rate (about 69 vs 81 bpm) and a smaller blood‑pressure response on the sustained handgrip test (about 10.2 vs 16.3), differences the authors report as statistically significant. Other standard autonomic tests (deep breathing, Valsalva, 30:15 ratio, and blood pressure change on standing) did not differ between groups. The authors conclude these results show less sympathetic and greater parasympathetic activity in the yoga group, but the study is cross‑sectional and cannot prove yoga caused the differences.

Key facts:

• Study type: Cross‑sectional comparative study of 68 healthy volunteers aged 17–30 (yoga group n=33, control group n=35).
• Resting heart rate was lower in the yoga group: mean 69.24 ± 10.64 bpm versus 80.92 ± 11.76 bpm in controls (P = 0.04).
• Sustained handgrip test (a sympathetic reactivity measure) showed a smaller response in the yoga group: mean 10.20 ± 3.67 versus 16.30 ± 4.53 in controls (P < 0.05).
• No significant differences were found between groups for the deep breathing test, Valsalva maneuver, 30:15 ratio on standing, or blood pressure response to standing (P > 0.05).
• Among yoga practitioners, those with more than 1 year of practice had lower resting heart rate (about 64.18 vs 71.72 bpm) and lower handgrip response (about 9.87 vs 12.48) than those with under 1 year (P < 0.05).
• Limitations: the sample was small and young, the design was cross‑sectional, and the study cannot establish that yoga caused the observed differences.

Abstract

The present study revealed diminished sympathetic activity and improved parasympathetic activity among the regular yoga practicing participants. It can be practiced regularly to reduce stress and prevent lifestyle-associated disorders in the future.

Topics

Heart Rate Variability and Autonomic Control Mindfulness and Compassion Interventions Stress Responses and Cortisol

Categories

Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine Health Sciences Medicine

Tags

Alternative medicine Anesthesia Autonomic function Autonomic nervous system Blood pressure Breathing Cardiology Diaphragmatic breathing Heart rate Heart rate variability Internal medicine Medicine Pathology Physical medicine and rehabilitation Physical therapy RESTING HEART RATE Valsalva maneuver