Impact of Yoga beyond Physical Training on the Cardiovascular System: An Updated Review

Samman Verma; Juniali Hatwal; Akash Batta

doi:10.18502/jthc.v19i2.16195

Samman Verma Department of Cardiology, Advanced Cardiac Centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India.
Juniali Hatwal Department of Internal Medicine, Advanced Cardiac Centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India.
Akash Batta Department of Cardiology, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital (DMCH), Ludhiana, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jthc.v19i2.16195

Keywords: Yoga; Cardiovascular diseases, prevention & control; Life style; Preventive medicine; Complementary therapies; Primary prevention; Secondary prevention

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) poses a significant health challenge in both developing and developed nations, with unparalleled morbidity, mortality, and economic tolls. Primary prevention of CVD through lifestyle modifications has been emphasized to address this issue. Yoga, an ancient practice dating back thousands of years with roots in the Harappan and Mohenjo-Daro civilizations, offers a potential solution. Hatha yoga, which includes physical movements and breathing techniques, is the most commonly practiced form today. The health benefits of yoga have recently gained attention and are being researched globally. Yoga is beneficial in both primary and secondary prevention of diseases, particularly CVD and its risk factors.

This review aims to explore the physiology of yoga, recent studies on its effect on the prevention and control of CVD, and the clinical implications of these findings.