Obesity, a growing global epidemic, is a leading cause of various non-communicable diseases. In light of this, a recent study explored the role of yoga, particularly the Integrated Approach of Yoga Therapy (IAYT), in managing obesity. The research aimed to assess whether a structured yoga program could reduce stress—a known contributor to obesity—and improve physical health among obese men in an urban environment.

In 2016, Rshikesan, et. al., conducted the study, which deals a 14-week Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT), on 72 obese male participants from Mumbai, an urban setting. These men, all of whom were new to yoga, were divided into two groups: 37 participants were assigned to the yoga group, while the remaining 35 served as the control group. The yoga group received specialized IAYT sessions for an hour and a half, five days a week, over the course of the 14 weeks. Meanwhile, the control group continued with their regular daily physical activities but did not engage in any specific exercise or therapy.

The researchers assessed both groups using a variety of physical and psychological measurements. Anthropometric parameters included weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), Mid Upper Arm Circumference (MAC), Waist Circumference (WC), Hip Circumference (HC), Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR), and Skin Fold Thickness (SKF) at various sites. In addition to these physical measures, the study evaluated psychological well-being using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire for Weight-Related Difficulty (AAQW). These assessments were conducted before and after the intervention.

The results revealed improvements in both the yoga and control groups across the physical and psychological parameters. However, the changes were significantly more pronounced in the yoga group. Participants in the yoga group saw a greater reduction in body fat percentage, waist circumference, and other key obesity-related measurements. Additionally, their perceived stress levels dropped more markedly than those in the control group.

The findings suggest that integrating yoga, specifically the IAYT module, into the lives of obese men in urban environments could offer an effective treatment for obesity and its associated problems. By reducing stress and improving physical health, yoga may serve as a valuable tool in combating the obesity epidemic, particularly in settings where lifestyle factors contribute heavily to weight gain.

With further research, the potential for yoga as a mainstream intervention for obesity could be realized, providing a holistic alternative to conventional exercise programs.

Reference: Rshikesan, P. B., & Subramanya, P. (2016). Effect of integrated approach of yoga therapy on male obesity and psychological parameters-A randomised controlled trial. Journal of clinical and diagnostic research: JCDR, 10(10), KC01.