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CAN YOGA INCREASE PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH?

Abstract

Kaitlyn Faith Adams, FACSM, Kaylie M. Bean, FACSM. Montreat College, Montreat, NC.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to determine whether the addition of a ten-minute yoga session twice per week had a positive impact on stress levels and heart rate. Lower stress levels and cardiovascular changes were expected after each session. METHODS: Materials used in this study included a heart rate monitor, informed consent form, a one question mental health survey, yoga mat, and a 10 minute moderate intensity yoga video via youtube. Before beginning the yoga session participants signed the consent form, answered the mental health survey and had their heart rate taken. At the end of the session, heart rate will once again be taken and the participant would fill out the survey. RESULTS: Outcomes from the study showed a significant relationship between yoga and the reduction of stress levels. Over the course of 5 weeks stress levels dropped greatly after yoga with a mean average of 6.28 prior to yoga and a mean average of 1.72 after the yoga session. When your heart rate is elevated from exercise it causes more oxygen and blood to be pumped into your muscles which will aid lowering risks of high cholesterol and heart disease. Yoga benefited each participant’s physical health due to the participants heart rate mean average being 63.12 prior to the yoga session and 141.68 post yoga session. CONCLUSION: The purpose of this study was to determine whether incorporating yoga sessions a couple of days per week had a positive impact on health. The study indicated that a ten minute yoga session will reduce stress and increase heart rate.

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