F. SVYASA Dissertations
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Yoga Dissertations by Yoga Students at SVYASA. These pages present some efforts of SVYASA at Scientific Validation of Yoga, combining the best of the East with the best of the West
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Item Effect of Acupuncture on Haemoglobin and Fatigue Level in Anaemic Females.(S-VYASA, 2026-05-07) Himani Jagdish Shahare; Sridevi. K.JBackground: Low haemoglobin levels are associated with reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of blood, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, reduced physical performance and poor concentration. Conventional treatment mainly involves iron supplementation; however, side effects are common. Acupuncture has been suggested to improve blood circulation and stimulate physiological processes that may support haemoglobin production and reduce fatigue. Aim: Evaluate the effect of acupuncture on haemoglobin levels and fatigue among anaemic females aged 20–24 years at S-VYASA, Bangalore. Method: Participants with mild to moderate anaemia received acupuncture at selected points (GB39, UB17, LIV13, SP6) for 15 days. Haemoglobin levels and fatigue scores were assessed before and after the intervention to determine the effectiveness. Results: A significant improvement in haemoglobin levels and reduction in fatigue scores were observed following the intervention. Conclusion: Acupuncture may be an effective complementary approach for improving haemoglobin levels and reducing fatigue. Keywords: Acupuncture, Haemoglobin, FatigueItem Effect of scalp acupuncture at Po-Shen and Shen -Hun on sustained attention in healthy young adults: A Pilot Randomized control trial(S-VYASA, 2026-05-06) Mirunalini V.; Chandrika, Chaudhary; MonicaasunBackground: In the current digital era, increased exposure to short-form media has contributed to a reduced ability to maintain prolonged focus on tasks. Sustained attention is essential for effective task performance and daily functioning. Scalp acupuncture, a non- invasive approach from Traditional Chinese Medicine, targets specific regions such as the Po-Shen and Shen-Hun bands associated with attention regulation. However, its effect on sustained attention in healthy individuals remains insufficiently explored. Aim: The study aimed to evaluate the effect of scalp acupuncture at the Po-Shen and Shen- Hun bands on sustained attention in healthy young adults. Objectives: The primary objective was to assess changes in sustained attention following scalp acupuncture. The secondary objective was to evaluate changes in cognitive function after the intervention. Materials and Methods: A pilot randomized controlled trial design was adopted. A total of 32 healthy participants aged 18–25 years were recruited and screened using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Eligible participants (MMSE >27) were randomly allocated into intervention (n=16) and control (n=16) groups. The intervention group received scalp acupuncture at Po-Shen and Shen-Hun bands, while the control group received sham acupuncture. The intervention was administered for two blocks of 10 consecutive days with a 5-day interval. Sustained attention and cognitive performance were assessed before and after the intervention using the Sustained Attention Response Task (SART) and the Stroop Colour and Word Test (SCWT). Data were analyzed using JAMOVI (2.7.26) Was used for statistical analysis. Participants: Thirty-two healthy young adults from a university setting who met inclusion and exclusion criteria and provided informed consent were included in the study. Study Design: This study was a pilot randomized controlled trial with parallel groups and assessor- based pre- and post-intervention evaluation. Assessment Tools: Sustained attention was assessed using the SART (sustained attention response task), and cognitive function was evaluated using the SCWT (Stroop Colour and Word Test). Intervention: The intervention involved scalp acupuncture at the Po-Shen and Shen-Hun bands using standard needling techniques, while the control group received sham acupuncture at non-therapeutic points. Hypothesis: Scalp acupuncture would significantly improve sustained attention and cognitive performance compared to the control group. Null Hypothesis: There would be no significant difference in sustained attention or cognitive performance between the intervention and control groups. Keywords: Scalp acupuncture, sustained attention, cognition, Po-Shen, Shen-Hun, SART, Stroop test, randomized controlled trial.Item The effect of Om meditation on sleep quality in menopausal women - A randamised controlled trail(S-VYASA, 2026-05-06) Polireddy Bhavigna; NavyaBackground: Menopause is frequently associated with sleep disturbances and a range of somatic and psychological symptoms, significantly affecting quality of life. Pharmacological treatments provide relief but carry risks, highlighting the need for safe, nonpharmacological alternatives. Om meditation, rooted in yogic tradition, is known to activate the parasympathetic system and promote relaxation, potentially improving sleep quality. Objective: To evaluate the effect of Om meditation on sleep quality and menopausal symptoms in women aged 40–55 years. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 62 menopausal women experiencing sleep disturbances. Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n = 30) practicing Om meditation daily for 30 minutes over three months, or a control group (n = 32) practicing supine rest for the same duration. Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and menopausal symptoms were measured using the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS). Pre and postintervention scores were compared using paired and independent ttests, with ANCOVA applied for betweengroup analysis. Results: The intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in both PSQI (mean reduction from 7.9 to 4.1, p < 0.001) and MRS (mean reduction from 13.5 to 8.2, p < 0.001), with large effect sizes (Cohen’s d ≈ 0.80–0.88). The control group showed modest improvements (PSQI from 7.7 to 6.9; MRS from 13.0 to 12.1), which were not clinically significant. Betweengroup analysis confirmed superior outcomes in the intervention group (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Om meditation is a safe, accessible, and culturally relevant intervention that significantly improves sleep quality and reduces menopausal symptoms. Its dual impact on physiological and psychological domains highlights its potential as a supportive therapy in menopausal health management and community programs. Keywords: Om meditation, menopause, sleep quality, nonpharmacological intervention, randomized controlled trial.Item Development, validation and feasibility of yoga module for weight gain(S-VYASA, 2026-05-06) Medhini L. N.; Pavitra V. Patil; Chaudhari, Sharad ShivajiraoBACKGROUND: Weight management is commonly associated with achieving a societal idea body shape and size, often emphasizing weight loss. However, being underweight have consequences. Gaining weight may result from building muscle, retaining fluids or increased fat accumulation. Deviating from a healthy weight range, whether too low or high, can negatively impact immunity, fertility and overall physical and mental wellbeing. Though weight gain is frequently viewed in the context of obesity and an unhealthy lifestyle, it is also crucial for individual recovering from illness, those who are underweight or those aiming to build muscle mass. AIM: The study aims at Development, Validation and feasibility of yoga module for weight gain. METHODS: The yoga module foe weight gain was developed following a comprehensive review of classical yoga text and relevant scientific literature. Thirty-two experienced yoga experts who met the inclusion criteria were selected to validate the content of the module. Total of 60 practices were included each practice was evaluated and rated as (i) not essential, (ii) useful but not essential, and (iii) essential. The Content Validity Ratio (CVR) was calculated using Lawshe’s formula. RESULTS: Data analysis showed that out of the 42 practices included in the yoga module, 29 demonstrated significant content validity (cut-off value: 0.42, based on Lawshe’s CVR formula). CONCLUSION: The developed yoga module for weight gain demonstrated good content validity. However, further studies are required to assess its feasibility and effectiveness. KEYWORDS: Yoga, Underweight, Module, Development, Validation, BMR, Weight gain.Item IMMEDIATE EFFECT OF SLEEP SPECIAL TECHNIQUE ON THE AUTONOMIC FUNCTIONS OF PATIENTS WITH HYPERTENSION- A PILOT STUDY(S-VYASA, 2026) Shreneet Pathey; Aditya Jangam; Moodalagiri Shanakra; Moulya K AppannaBackground: Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition. It is characterized by persistently elevated arterial blood pressure. Various guidelines define the diagnostic criteria, and a blood pressure reading above 140/90 mmHg persistently is the diagnostic threshold. This is one of the leading causes of premature medications, deaths or disabilities. Hypertension is currently an epidemic, affecting approximately 1.3 billion adults. If left untreated, it can progress to end-organ damage. The standard medications help in the symptomatic management, leading to a reduction in blood pressure, but do not help in removing the root cause of the condition and thus ignore the autonomic imbalance. The Sleep Special Technique is an advanced relaxation technique which helps in relaxing the mind and body, and thus helps the person reduce the sympathetic load and fix the autonomic balance. The immediate effects of SST on the autonomic functions of hypertensive patients are still unknown. Aim: This study aimed to find the changes of autonomic functions in hypertensive patients immediately after practicing the Sleep Special Technique, thus establishing the efficacy of the SST. Methods & Materials: The sample size of the study is 30 participants who were diagnosed with hypertension, on stable anti-hypertensives and within the 30-60 years of age. Design: It was a pre-post pilot interventional study with a single-group design. Assessments: The assessments were Heart Rate Variability (HRV) parameters (RMSSD, LF, HF, LF/HF ratio), Heart rate and Blood Pressure. Intervention: Intervention was SST. A simple 30-minute protocol that included brisk walking, nadi-shuddhi pranayama, A-kara chanting, awareness, reverse DRT and OM-kara chanting. Results: A single session of the sleep special technique immediately caused a significant reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure (p < 0.001 for both) and augmented mean R-R interval values (p = 0.028). Minimal significant changes were found in other heart rate variability indices (RMSSD, SD1, SD2, LF, HF, LF/HF ratio, or mean heart rate). This suggests a favourable acute impact on cardiovascular regulation, though systemic autonomic alterations were limited. Conclusion: Single-session Sleep Special Technique (SST) significantly reduces blood pressure and improves RR intervals in hypertensive patients, suggesting acute cardiovascular benefits. However, lack of change in other HRV indices implies that sustained autonomic modulation likely requires longer- term practice, positioning SST as a promising adjunctive non-pharmacological therapy. Key words: Hypertension; Sleep Special Technique; Heart Rate Variability; Autonomic Function; Yoga Intervention; Blood Pressure RegulationItem HEART RATE VARIABILITY DYNAMICS BEFORE AND AFTER LAGHU SHANKHAPRAKSHALANA IN HEALTHY ADULTS: A REPEATED-MEASURES STUDY(S-VYASA, 2026) Varshini Sushma; Dhanushree M. S.; Sharad Shivajirao Chaudhari; Anusuya U. S.BACKGROUND Laghu Shankhaprakshalana (LSP) is a traditional yogic cleansing technique aimed at purifying the gastrointestinal tract and promoting systemic balance. Although yogic practices are known to influence autonomic function, limited scientific evidence exists regarding the immediate effects of LSP on cardiac autonomic regulation. Heart Rate variability (HRV) is a well-established, non-invasive marker that reflects autonomic nervous system dynamics and overall physiological adaptability. AIM: To explore the effect of Laghu Shankhaprakshalana on heart Rate Variability (HRV) in healthy individuals. OBJECTIVES: 1. To measure the immediate changes in HRV following the practice of LSP. 2. To investigate the impact of LSP on HRV and evaluate the persistence of Autonomic alterations over time. 3. To evaluate the effect of Laghu ShankhaPrakshalana on Heart rate, Blood pressure, SpO2 and Respiratory rate. METHODS: This study adopts a single-group repeated measures design involving healthy adults aged 18-25 years. Participants will be recruited based on defined inclusion and exclusion criteria (n=44). Baseline measurements of HRV, Heartrate, Blood pressure, SpO2 and Respiratory rate will be recorded under resting conditions. The intervention consists of an intake of warm saline water followed by a sequence of specific yogic postures performed in cycles early in the morning on an empty stomach. Outcome measures will be recorded before the intervention, immediately after and at 30 minutes of post-intervention. HRV analysis will include time-domain and frequency-domain parameters. INFORMED CONSENT: Written informed consent was taken from the subjects before starting the intervention. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS : By Principal Investigators. DATA CONFIDENTIALITY: Confidentiality of the data will be ensured by coding the subjects and not revealing the names. ETHICAL CONSIDERATION: All the subjects were informed about the current research, and informed consent was obtained from each subjects. RESULTS: The analysis demonstrated observable changes in heart rate variability (HRV) parameters across baseline, immediate post-intervention, and 30 minutes post-intervention. Descriptive statistics indicated trends toward modulation of autonomic activity following Laghu Shankha Prakshalana. However, inferential analysis (Friedman test) did not show statistically significant differences across time points for most parameters, likely due to high inter- individual variability. CONCLUSION: Laghu Shankha Prakshalana may influence autonomic regulation by inducing short-term changes in HRV, suggesting a potential modulatory effect on the autonomic nervous system. However, the lack of statistical significance indicates that these effects are variable and not consistent across individuals. Further controlled studies with extended follow-up are required to establish definitive outcomes. KEYWORDS: LSP, Heart Rate variability, Autonomic Nervous System, Yoga, ShatkriyaItem EFFECT OF ANAMS (YOGIC MEDITATION PRACTICE) ON EMOTIONS IN WOMEN (EARLY ADULTHOOD - SELF HELP GROUP (SHG) – A PRE-POST CONTROLLED STUDY(S-VYASA, 2025) LOVELY KUMARI; G. PADAMSRIAim To study the effect of ANAMS (Ananda Amruta Sinchana), a yogic meditation practice, on emotions (Positive and Negative Emotions), Pulse rate, Breath rate, and Bhramari time in early adulthood of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) women. Background Many women in rural India face emotional stress due to household and social responsibilities. ANAMS is a method developed by S-VYASA University to awaken the Anandamaya Kosha (the blissful layer of self). It helps improve emotional well-being by increasing a sense of inner happiness and reducing negative feelings. While yoga and meditation have been studied a lot, the effects of ANAMS on the emotions and body of women in Self Help Groups (SHGs) have not been studied yet. This study tries to understand and prove the benefits of ANAMS based on both traditional knowledge and real-life experiences. Methods A total of 36 women between the ages of 21 and 40 were selected from two women SHGs in Ranchi, Jharkhand. Further, they were divided into two groups (18 each) for experimental and controlled group. The experimental group practiced ANAMS for 30 minutes daily over 30 days. The controlled group received no intervention. Emotional changes were checked using the PANAS scale, which looks at both positive and negative feelings. Physical changes were measured by tracking Breath Rate, Pulse Rate, and Bhramari Time. Data was analyzed using Jamovi software. Results The women who practiced ANAMS showed a significant increase in positive emotions and a decrease in negative emotions after 30 days of ANAMS practice. Positive emotions increased significantly in the experimental group by 24.2%, while negative emotions dropped by over 40%. There were also notable improvements in physical health. The pulse rate of the women in the experimental group went down by 8.4%. The breath rate also dropped significantly by 24.7% in the experimental group. Bhramari time improved by 31.0% (p < 0.001) in the experimental group. The control group did not show any major changes. This shows better breath control and calmness. Conclusion Practicing ANAMS daily for 30 days helped improve emotional health and reduced stress in early adult SHG women. The study suggests that ANAMS is a simple and effective yogic tool for emotional well-being and calming the body’s physiological in rural women. Keywords: ANAMS, Yogic Meditation, Emotions, Self-Help Group (SHG), Rural women.Item EFFECT OF RESTORATIVE SAVASANA ON PEOPLE WITH SLEEP DISORDERS(S-VYASA, 2025) CHRISTIAN MEJIA; KRISHNA DWIVEDIItem MENTAL HEALTH STATUS OF INDIVIDUALS RESIDING IN RELIEF CAMPS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY FROM MANIPUR, INDIA(S-VYASA, 2025) LADY THONGAM; SOUBHAGYALAXMI MOHANTY; M. SOWJANYABACKGROUND Ethnic conflict in Manipur, India, has led to the internal displacement of thousands of individuals, many of whom are now living in relief camps under challenging conditions. Displacement not only disrupts social and economic stability but also exposes individuals to a range of psychological stressors. Previous studies have consistently shown that displaced populations are at increased risk for mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, stress, and post-traumatic stress disorder. However, there remains a gap in research specifically focused on the mental health status of displaced populations within Manipur. Understanding the mental health burden among this vulnerable group is crucial for informing policy and guiding mental health service delivery. This study aims to provide empirical data on the psychological well-being of individuals residing in relief camps and to identify the prevalence and severity of mental health symptoms in this context. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES Aims - To investigate the mental health of participants residing in relief camps due to ethnic conflict in Manipur, India. Objectives - To evaluate the mental status (depression, anxiety, stress and PTSD) of participants residing in relief camps. METHODS Participants: N = 221 internally displaced individuals residing in relief camps in Manipur. Design: This study employed a cross-sectional survey design. Assessments: Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist – Civilian Version Intervention: No intervention was implemented during the study. However, the findings are intended to inform future intervention planning. RESULTS The results revealed critically high levels of psychological distress among participants.Approximately 71.1% showed severe or extremely severe depression, 93.3% reported extremely severe anxiety, and 76% experienced severe or extremely severe stress. In addition, 65.6% of participants screened positive for post-traumatic stress disorder. Access to healthcare was rated as poor or very poor by over 95% of respondents. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights a mental health crisis among individuals in relief camps. The findings emphasize the need for immediate psychological support and improved healthcare access for displaced populations in conflict-affected areas.Item COMPARATIVE STUDY ON THE IMMEDIATE EFFECTS OF SURYA AND CHANDRA NAMASKAR ON AUTONOMIC FUNCTION IN YOUNG ADULTS: A PARALLEL GROUP TWO-ARM STUDY(S-VYASA, 2026) Poornashri Umesh Angadi; Lehar Gupta; Shishira R.; Moulya K Appanna; Amit KanthiBACKGROUND Surya and Chandra Namaskar are two dynamic yogic practice sequences rooted in the Indian traditional system. While the concepts of Surya (solar) and Chandra (lunar) are traditionally associated with activating and calming qualities, respectively, these associations are conceptual and not directly attributed to the structured practices in classical texts. The present study aimed to evaluate and compare the immediate effects of Surya Namaskar and Chandra Namaskar on autonomic and physiological parameters under controlled conditions. It was hypothesized that Surya namaskar will predominantly enhance sympathetic activation due to its dynamic nature, while Chandra Namaskar will promote parasympathetic dominance through slower, more controlled breathing and movements. Methods: A total of 48 healthy young adults (18–28 years) from S-VYASA University were recruited and randomly allocated into two groups: Group A (Surya Namaskar) and Group B (Chandra Namaskar). Both interventions were performed under identical morning conditions to minimize circadian influences. Outcome measures included heart rate variability, blood pressure, respiratory rate, galvanic skin response, and oxygen saturation. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted to evaluate immediate autonomic changes. Result: No significant differences were observed between the two groups, suggesting that both practices do not have any comparable autonomic responses. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that both Surya Namaskar and Chandra Namaskar have independent immediate effect in autonomic functions in young adults. Both interventions showed a tendency toward sympathetic activation immediately post-practice, likely due to the dynamic nature of the sequences and the timing of measurements. Key Words: Surya namaskar, Chandra namaskar, Sun salutation, Moon salutation, Autonomic Variables, and yoga