Yoga in Relation to its Psychophysical Impact

Yoga is widely practiced as a means to promote physical, psychological and spiritual well-being. While a number of studies have documented the efficacy of yoga for functioning in healthy individuals and those experiencing illness or pain, bio-psychosocial effects have not been detailed. We propose an analogue between the physical, psychological and spiritual effects of practice as support in yoga traditions, and the bio-psychosocial model of health. To this end, we present a review and conceptual model of the potential bio-psychosocial benefits of yoga, which may provide clues regarding the possible mechanisms of action of yoga upon well-being. Physical systems activated through yoga practice include musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary, autonomic nervous system and endocrine functioning. Psychological benefits include enhanced coping, self-efficacy and positive mood. Spiritual mechanisms that can be understood within a Western medical model include acceptance and mindful awareness. We present empirical evidence that supports the involvement of these domains. However, additional well-conducted research is required to further establish the efficacy of yoga for heal research is required to further establish the efficacy of yoga for health states, and to understand how posture, breath and meditative activity affect the body, mind and spirit. People who suffer from high blood pressure often wonder if there are ways to lower blood pressure naturally. Well, indeed, there is. Diet and exercise are already well-known remedies for high blood pressure. Less well known, perhaps, is that yoga offers natural therapy for high blood pressure as well. Numerous studies show that yoga therapy can be a great remedy for high blood pressure, with results showing up in as little as twelve weeks.