Development of a Yoga Module for Hypothyroidism

Abstract

Introduction: Prevalence of hypothyroidism is found high in India in the recent years and is more commonly seen in women. While treating the condition with pharmacological intervention, importance of exercise, diet and lifestyle modifications play a significant role in managing the condition. Yoga based techniques have shown positive impact in managing hypothyroid related symptoms. Yoga when considered as a therapeutically approach needs to be customised by considering specific yogic techniques for the targeted health condition and it is also essential to validate the yoga module for a given health condition. While there are a few validated yoga modules for managing obesity, backpain etc., there are no validated yoga modules for treating/managing hypothyroid condition. Aim: To develop an integrated yoga module for hypothyroidism. Materials and Methods: Integrated yoga module has been designed based on traditional yoga literature and expert opinion. Based on the pancha kosha model (five layered existence), 53 yogic techniques were compiled and sent to 36 experts for content and face validation. Experts validated each technique by rating the relevance on a five point likert scale. Validated techniques were administered to a group of 35 women having hypothyroidism to assertain acceptance and the possibility of practice of said techniques. Content Validity Ratio (CVR) and the average of mean, mode and median of scores were calculated. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 23. Results: Out of the 53 techniques, 41 techniques scored either CVR more than 0.5 or average of mean, median and mode more than 4. Conclusion: The developed integrated yoga module for hypothyroidism enjoys good face and content validity. Initial feasibility test confirms that the techniques are accepted and could be practiced by the hypothyroid patients. Further validation of the module using a pre-post study is warranted to confirm its efficacy.

Management of Hypothyroidism through Yoga Intervention: A Study of Yogic Approaches

“…Asanas also improve the digestive system and strengthen the glands. Kriyas like Jalaneti (which activates the thyroid gland) and vamandhauti (which relieves a clogged digestive system) can also help with physical layer treatment 23 . At the pranamaya kosha, various breathing practices are used to improve neuro-glandular functions and to balance the vital life force.…”

“…At the pranamaya kosha, various breathing practices are used to improve neuro-glandular functions and to balance the vital life force. Breathing practices include Bhastrika (its heating effects speed up metabolism), anuloma-viloma (useful in rebalancing metabolism), bhramari (induce calmness, relieve stress, and generate positive vibration which rejuvenates the nervous and endocrine systems), and ujjayi (stimulate thyroid gland) 23 . Vipritkarni mudra (incorporates ujjayi pranayama and awareness of psychic passages) and Jalandhar bandha (compresses and massages the thyroid and parathyroid gland to optimize their functions) (Swami, 2013).…”

“…Vipritkarni mudra (incorporates ujjayi pranayama and awareness of psychic passages) and Jalandhar bandha (compresses and massages the thyroid and parathyroid gland to optimize their functions) (Swami, 2013). At the manomaya kosha, AUM chanting and OM meditation rejuvenates the thyroid gland, induce relaxation and reduce the rewinding process of thoughts, improve the secretion of feel-good hormones, and positive vibrations stimulate the healing effect 23 . Yogic counseling, self-analysis, and yoga-Nidra are helpful in balancing the vijnanmaya kosha.…”

“…Yogic counseling, self-analysis, and yoga-Nidra are helpful in balancing the vijnanmaya kosha. At anandamaya kosha, karma yoga (action in relaxation) should be practiced to experience bliss continually 23 .…”

A Case Report Based on a Holistic Approach to Improve Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Pregnancy Outcomes in a Patient With Thyroid Dysfunction

“…The integrated approach to yoga therapy (IAYT) is a comprehensive and integrated strategy that combines different yoga practices at every level to treat a range of illnesses and their associated symptoms. Numerous health issues, including obesity, stress, and depression, that are linked to hypothyroidism have been shown to improve with yoga practice [ 6 ]. When compared to sleep, yog nidra aims to induce a deep level of relaxation in which the practitioner is still aware of their surroundings.…”