Yoga, Weight Control & Chronic Pain

October 29, 2019   |   Evidence in Integrative Healthcare

An NCCIH article reports numerous studies that suggest benefits with several aspects of wellness, including stress management, mental/emotional health, promoting healthy eating/ activity habits, sleep and balance.

In addition, promising results show yoga to be among the first-line recommendations for treatment of chronic pain. Because chronic pain is often linked to weight issues, the following may be of interest for providers looking to create a more complete program for this population.

Weight control programs with best results include at least some of these elements:

• A residential component (such as a full weekend to start the program)
  • Providers with yoga training may wish to offer group yoga sessions
• Longer and more frequent yoga sessions
• Yoga-based dietary component (breathing and visualization related to food)
• Home practice