Feasibility and Impact of Yoga in Obesity

Innovative approaches to improve long-term behavioral weight loss (BWL) program outcomes are critically needed. Current BWL programs typically produce modest (\~5-10%) short-term (\~6 month) weight loss, but substantial weight regain by 1-year is common and well-documented. There has been a growing interest in examining the effects of yoga on weight loss and cardio-metabolic disease risk among adults with overweight, obesity, metabolic syndrome, pre-diabetes, and diabetes. Overall, results are somewhat promising, but reviews and meta-analyses all conclude that existing studies suffer from significant methodological shortcomings. Moreover, yoga is broadly, variably, and often incorrectly defined, reflecting how key aspects of traditional yoga practice, with specific mind, body, and breath-based practices were lost in translation when yoga was commercially adopted as a form of exercise in the West. These key aspects warrant inclusion in yoga intervention research. The overall objectives of the proposed research are to 1) Evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of adding a 12-week traditional, multi-component yoga program to a standard BWL intervention (BWL+yoga), and 2) Explore changes in clinical/cardiometabolic, psychological, and energy balance/behavioral measures relevant for reducing cardio-metabolic disease risk. The yoga intervention was developed in collaboration with a world-renowned expert in traditional yoga practices following three decades of dedicated study, practice, and teaching (Mr. Paul Dallaghan). The program includes specific postures (asana), breathing (pranayama), and meditation (inner focus) techniques performed with an underlying focus on self-awareness delivered in-person and virtually. These specific techniques have been practiced historically and described for their benefits in the original Sanskrit teachings but are often excluded from yoga programs developed in the West. The overarching hypotheses are that these specific Hatha (body-breath) and Pantanjala (mind) yoga practices will be feasible in the context of a BWL, will support the adoption of changes in diet and physical activity, and improve mental and physical health.