Glycemic and physiological responses in healthy adults following 1008 surya namaskar: A time dependent pre-post CGM study.

Abstract

Background: 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.