Objectives: Yoga has been found to be effective for addressing problems with strength, flexibility, balance, gait, anxiety, depression, and concentration. Varying degrees of these problems occur in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). This study examined the effects of a comprehensive, 4-month yoga program on strength, mobility, balance, respiratory function, and quality of life for individuals with MS. Methods: Twenty four individuals with MS participated in an intensive Ananda Yoga training followed by 17 weeks of home practice. Results: Significant improvements in functional strength, balance, and peak expiratory flow and a trend toward improvements in mental health and quality of life outcomes were detected following the intervention. Conclusions: The results of this exploratory study suggest that yoga can have a positive impact on physical functioning and quality of life for persons with mild to moderate MS.
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1 October 2013
RESEARCH|
October 28 2013
Effects of a 4-month Ananda Yoga Program on Physical and Mental Health Outcomes for Persons With Multiple Sclerosis
Bryan Coleman Salgado;
Bryan Coleman Salgado
1
Department of Physical Therapy, California State University, Sacramento, CA
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Maitri Jones;
Maitri Jones
2
The Expanding Light Yoga & Meditation Retreat, Nevada City, CA
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Suzanne Ilgun;
Suzanne Ilgun
2
The Expanding Light Yoga & Meditation Retreat, Nevada City, CA
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Gyandev McCord;
Gyandev McCord
2
The Expanding Light Yoga & Meditation Retreat, Nevada City, CA
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Mangala Loper-Powers;
Mangala Loper-Powers
2
The Expanding Light Yoga & Meditation Retreat, Nevada City, CA
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Peter van Houten
Peter van Houten
3
Medical Director, Sierra Family Medical Clinic, Nevada City, CA
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Int J Yoga Therap (2013) 23 (2): 27–38.
Citation
Bryan Coleman Salgado, Maitri Jones, Suzanne Ilgun, Gyandev McCord, Mangala Loper-Powers, Peter van Houten; Effects of a 4-month Ananda Yoga Program on Physical and Mental Health Outcomes for Persons With Multiple Sclerosis. Int J Yoga Therap 1 October 2013; 23 (2): 27–38. doi: https://doi.org/10.17761/ijyt.23.2.201k61q276486622
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