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 cyclic meditation on changes of Iris and perceived stress among college going students: A pilot observational study(S-VYASA, 2026-05-13) Lavanya M. R.; Titty GeorgeBACKGROUND: Stress has been defined as a state of mental or emotional strain due to adverse or challenging circumstances. (Agyapong et al., 2023)The ability to adapt to stress is crucial for maintaining homeostasis and, consequently, for sustaining life.(Chaves et al., 2021).The rising incidence of stress-related disorders highlights the necessity for further research into stress adaptation, there are two primary regulatory pathways: the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis and the sympathetic-adrenomedullary axis. These pathways work together, supported by the significant bidirectional connections between their respective centers, the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN), and the brainstem monoaminergic cell groups. The PVN, particularly its corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) producing neurons, is regarded as the central hub for stress regulation.(Chaves et al., 2021) AIM: • To assess the impact of 'Cyclic Meditation' practice on iris changes and perceived stress among college students. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study is: • To study the effect of cyclic meditation on the iris. • To study the effect of cyclic meditation on perceived stress • To evaluate the common changes in iris pattern in stressed individuals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Participants: College going students of age 18 to 25 years. The proposed study was a Pilot observational study with a total of 34 subjects who were pre assessed and selected. Design: A total of 34 subjects were screened and sample were based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. before the intervention consent form is taken. Assessments: • Iris parameters • Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) Intervention: • Yoga- Cyclic Meditation will be given as intervention daily one time for about 30minutes duration for 60 days. RESULTS: There is statistically significant difference between pre data and post data which suggests that yogic cyclic meditation is effective. Significant improvement was seen in PSS scoring and P value (less than 0.05) CONCLUSION: Cyclic Meditation has an effect on stress rings in the iris, as well as a reduction in perceived stress levels measured by the PSS-10 questionnaire and is effective in improving quality of life and reducing stress in individuals. KEYWORDS: Yoga, Iridology, Cyclic meditation, StressItem Glycemic and physiological responses in healthy adults following 1008 surya namaskar: A time dependent pre-post CGM study.(S-VYASA, 2026-05-13) Nandini Priya; Dasari Navya Sindhuri; H. R. Nagendra; Sharad Shivajirao ChaudhariBackground: Surya Namaskar is a classical yogic practice integrating physical movement, breath regulation, and metabolic activation. While its general health benefits are known, the acute glycemic and physiological responses to performing 1008 Surya Namaskar remain underexplored, particularly using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). Aim: To evaluate the time-dependent glycemic variability and physiological responses in healthy adults following the performance of 1008 Surya Namaskar using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and pre– and post–assessment. Methods: A pre–post experimental study was conducted on 52 healthy adults. CGM readings were recorded at nine break intervals during the session. Pre- and post-intervention parameters included random blood glucose (GRBS), blood pressure (SBP, DBP), oxygen saturation (SpO₂), body weight, and breath-holding capacity (Kumbhaka). Repeated measures analysis with appropriate corrections was used to evaluate changes across time points, along with paired and non-parametric tests for pre–post comparisons. Assessment: Continuous glucose monitoring was performed at nine break intervals, along with pre and post–measurements of random blood glucose, blood pressure, oxygen saturation (SpO₂), body weight, and breath-holding capacity (Kumbhaka). Results: A significant variation in glucose levels was observed across the nine break intervals, demonstrating marked glycemic variability during the session. The CGM revealed a biphasic pattern, with an initial decline followed by a progressive rise, reaching peak levels toward the final phase. Pre–post analysis showed an increase in blood glucose levels along with improvements in oxygen saturation and breath-holding capacity. A measurable change in body weight was also observed following the session. Conclusion: The 1008 Surya Namaskar induces significant time-dependent glycemic fluctuations and acute physiological adaptations in healthy individuals. The biphasic glucose response reflects enhanced metabolic activity, involving increased peripheral utilization followed by compensatory glucose mobilization. These findings highlight Surya Namaskar as a potent metabolic stimulus influencing glucose regulation and respiratory efficiency. Keywords: Surya Namaskar, Continuous Glucose Monitoring, Glycemic Variability, Yoga, Acute Exercise Response, Kumbhaka, SpO₂.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 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 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 yogaItem IMMEDIATE EFFECTS OF 90 DEGREE VERSUS 45 DEGREE INVERSION ON CEREBRAL HEMODYNAMICS AND HRV IN YOGA PRACTITIONERS: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED STUDY(S-VYASA, 2026) TARUN KUMAR S.; JANANI A P; AMSHUMAN R YADAV; Krishna DwivediBackground: Inverted yoga postures are believed to influence cerebral circulation and autonomic nervous system regulation by altering gravitational blood flow dynamics. Practices such as 90° inversion and 45° inversion are traditionally used in yoga for promoting physiological balance and relaxation. However, scientific evidence comparing the immediate cerebrovascular and autonomic effects of different inversion angles remains limited. Aim: To investigate the immediate effects of two inversion postures—90° inversion and 45° inversion on cerebrovascular hemodynamics and cardiac autonomic function in healthy yoga practitioners. Methods: This randomized controlled study included 40 healthy yoga practitioners aged 18–35 years who had at least six months of yoga practice. Participants were randomly assigned to either the 90° inversion group or 45° inversion group. Each participant maintained the posture for approximately turn on I thought yesterday he only gave Roshan only completely3 minutes under supervision. Physiological assessments were conducted at three time points: baseline (supine rest), during the posture, and post-intervention recovery. Assessment: Cerebrovascular hemodynamic parameters—Peak Systolic Velocity (PSV), End-Diastolic Velocity (EDV), Mean Flow Velocity (MFV), Pulsatility Index (PI), and Resistance Index (RI)—were measured in the left Middle Cerebral Artery using Transcranial Doppler ultrasonography. Cardiac autonomic activity was assessed through heart rate variability (HRV) analysis, including time-domain and frequency-domain parameters. Results: Both inversion postures produced significant changes in cerebrovascular and autonomic parameters across the pre, during, and post phases. Mean flow velocity and end-diastolic velocity increased significantly during inversion, while pulsatility index and resistance index decreased, indicating improved vascular compliance. 90° inversion produced stronger autonomic and hemodynamic responses during the posture, whereas 45° inversion showed a more gradual recovery pattern with sustained reductions in vascular resistance. Conclusion: Both 90° inversion and 45° inversion significantly influence cerebral circulation and autonomic nervous system activity, though with different physiological patterns. 90° inversion induces stronger acute regulatory responses, while 45° inversion promotes a more sustained reduction in cerebrovascular resistance during recovery. These findings suggest that different inversion angles may offer distinct therapeutic applications for improving cerebrovascular regulation and autonomic balance. Keywords: Yoga, Inversion Postures, 90° inversion, 45° inversion, Cerebral Blood Flow, Transcranial Doppler, Heart Rate Variability, Autonomic Nervous System.Item EFFECT OF YOGA ON CREATIVE THINKING IN MIDDLE SCHOOL RESIDENTIAL STUDENT(S-VYASA, 2025-08-19) Smita Rani; Rajesh NairBACKGROUND: In today’s fast-changing world, creativity is essential for children to think flexibly, solve problems, and express themselves. However, studies report a decline in creativity during middle school, known as the “fourth-grade slump” (Torrance, 1967), often due to rigid academic routines and social pressures. Yoga, in which practices like asanas, pranayama, and mindful relaxation, and meditation have shown promise in improving focus, emotional balance, and brain function. Emerging research suggests yoga may also enhance creativity by reducing stress and supporting cognitive flexibility in young learners. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to examine the effects of a structured yoga program on divergent thinking and creativity among middle school residential students. METHODS: A single-group pre-post design was employed. Forty healthy students aged 11–15 from PM SHRI Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Godda (Jharkhand, India) participated in a four week intervention comprising daily one-hour sessions of Asanas, Pranayama, Deep Relaxation Techniques, and Krida Yoga. Creativity was assessed using standardized measures evaluating Originality, Fluency, Flexibility, Verbal creativity, Non-verbal creativity, and Total creativity. RESULTS: Post-intervention scores showed statistically significant improvements in originality (P < .001; Cohen’s d = 0.9), verbal creativity (P < .001; d = 0.8), total creativity (P < .001; d = 0.8), fluency (P = .002; d = 0.5), and flexibility (P = .002; d = 0.6). No significant change was found in non-verbal creativity (P = 0.198; d = 0.2). CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that regular yoga practice positively influences divergent thinking and creativity in middle school students. Yoga enhanced verbal creativity and cognitive flexibility, supporting its integration in educational settings. This highlights yoga’s potential as a holistic tool to foster students’ creative abilities, emotional balance, and mental well-being. Keywords: Yoga, Creativity, Divergent Thinking, Creative Thinking, Children, Verbal creativity, Cognitive Flexibility, EducationItem EFFECT OF YOGA ON PHYSIOLOGICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL PARAMETERS RELATED TO OBESE CONDITION AND THE WELLBEING OF PARTICIPANTS AFFECTED BY OBESITY(S-VYASA, 2025-08-19) Jinal Mokariya; Rajesh NairBACKGROUND Obesity, a global health crisis, has tripled since 1975 due to sedentary lifestyles, poor diets, and stress, leading to conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and depression. Conventional treatments often neglect psychological roots. This dissertation explores Yoga as a holistic intervention, focusing on the Integrated Approach of Yoga Therapy (IAYT). Through structured hospital-based programs, it assesses improvements in BMI, blood pressure, sleep, self-esteem, and emotional well being. Yoga’s mind-body practices offer a low-cost, accessible solution, especially vital for countries like India. The study aims to evaluate yoga’s potential as a sustainable model for both physical and psychological rehabilitation in obesity management. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES This study aims to evaluate the impact of the Integrated Approach of Yoga Therapy (IAYT) on the physiological and psychological parameters of individuals with obesity. As part of that, this study assessed the effect of IAYT on Body Mass Index (BMI), Blood Pressure, Sleep quality, Depression, Anxiety, and Stress in people suffering from obesity. METHODS Participant: A total of 52 participants aged between 25 and 60 years, clinically diagnosed with obesity (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²), were selected using convenient sampling from Aarogyadhama, a yoga therapy hospital under S-VYASA University. Design: This study followed a single-group pre-post design Assessments: In this study, we assessed Body Mass Index (BMI), Blood Pressure (SBP & DBP), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS), WHO Quality of Life-BREF (Physical, Psychological, Social, Environmental) 1 Intervention: An integrated approach of yoga therapy (IAYT) program was administered for 2 weeks. The intervention included specific asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing techniques), kriyas (cleansing techniques), relaxation methods, and lifestyle modifications, including a special diet. Participants were guided regularly to maintain consistency and adherence to the protocol. Results: Participants showed significant improvements in various physical and psychological parameters, particularly in reduction of body weight, BMI, and improvements in sleep quality, stress levels, and overall well-being. Conclusions: IAYT was found to be effective in reducing obesity and improving physiological and psychological health markers when practiced consistently. It is a safe, holistic, and non pharmacological approach for managing lifestyle disorders like obesity.Item EFFECT OF CYCLIC MEDITATION ON STRESS LEVELS, ANXIETY, AND DEPRESSION IN HIGHER SECONDARY STUDENTS(S-VYASA, 2025-08-19) Tanisha Gupta; Rajesh NairBACKGROUND In the current educational landscape, higher secondary students often grapple with immense academic pressures, peer expectations, and future uncertainties. These stressors have led to an alarming rise in psychological concerns such as stress, anxiety, and depression among adolescents, often compromising their academic performance and overall well-being. Addressing these issues through holistic and accessible practices has become increasingly necessary. One such intervention is Cyclic Meditation (CM), a structured yogic technique that blends physical postures with deep relaxation to regulate mental and emotional health. Though previous research has demonstrated CM’s benefits in adult populations, its application and effectiveness among school-going adolescents remain underexplored. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES This study aims to assess the effect of cyclic meditation on the stress, anxiety, and depression of higher secondary students. METHODS Participants and design A total of 62 school Students from VPS High School in Lonavala, Maharashtra, aged 15-18 years. This study will follow a single-group pre-post design. Assessments: Stress: Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) Anxiety: Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21(DASS-21 Depression: Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21(DASS-21 Sleep Quality: Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) vi Intervention: Intervention (Cyclic Meditation practice) will be of the duration of 40 minutes and 5 days/week, for one month. CM consists of various steps like IRT (1Min), Centering, Ardhakati chakrasana, QRT (3Min), Vajrasana, Shashankasana, Ustrasana, DRT (14 Min) Results: Statistical analysis revealed significant improvements in three of the four targeted domains: Perceived stress levels decreased substantially (p < .001, Cohen’s d = 1.60), Depression scores showed a significant reduction (p < .001, d = 1.01), Anxiety levels dropped significantly (p < .001, d = 1.00), Sleep quality improved markedly (p < .001, d = 0.74). However, the DASS-21 stress subscale did not show statistically significant improvement (p = 0.108), possibly due to the instrument's sensitivity or the intervention duration. Conclusions: The findings suggest that Cyclic Meditation is an effective intervention for reducing perceived stress, anxiety, and depression, while simultaneously enhancing sleep quality among higher secondary students. Given its accessibility and holistic nature, CM can be feasibly integrated into school wellness programs. Future studies with control groups, longer follow-up periods, and diverse populations are recommended to further validate and expand upon these promising outcomes. Keywords: Cyclic Meditation, Yoga, School students, Stress, Sleep quality, Anxiety, DepressionItem Development of Oharaneeya vega scale as a screening tool to observe level of suppression of anger in yoga practitioner(SVYASA, 2022-04-11) Poorva Salunke