How frequent yogic activity affects the autonomic nervous system's role: a comparative assessment

Abstract

Aim: to know the influence of yoga on autonomic functions of the body. Material and Methods: The present prospective case control study was conducted among patients visited the OPD, Mamata Medical College, Khammam from October 2019 to March 2020. The findings were tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis. Case group (N=30): subjects who were performing regular yoga asanas and relaxation techniques for at least 5 years. Control group (N=30): age and gender matched subject who were not performing yoga asanas and relaxation techniques or were not engaged with any other type of physical exercises. Results: There was a statistically important difference between cases and controls for Resting Heart Rate, Resting Diastolic Blood Pressure, and Hand grip systolic blood pressure (p≤0.05) among the sympathetic nervous system parameters. Conclusion: yogic activity significantly alters the sympathetic activity like heart rate and blood pressure.