Feasibility and impact of a remote moderate-intensity yoga intervention on stress and executive functioning in working adults: a randomized controlled trial

Madhura Phansikar, Neha Gothe, Rosalba Hernandez, Sandraluz Lara-Cinisomo, Sean P. Mullen

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

The feasibility of a moderate-intensity yoga intervention, delivered remotely via supervised and unsupervised sessions, and its psychosocial and cognitive effects have not been thoroughly investigated. This randomized controlled trial assessed feasibility and preliminary efficacy of an 8-week moderate-intensity yoga intervention (3×/week, 50 min) delivered remotely (vs. a waitlist control arm), on stress and cognitive functioning. Participants (n = 86) were low active, full-time working adults (81.40% female; Mage = 41 years) with symptoms of stress. Feasibility was assessed via adherence, enjoyment, and safety; stress and anxiety via self-report questionnaires; and executive functioning via neuropsychological tests. Overall attendance was 75.1%, 100% of participants enjoyed the intervention, and only one adverse event was reported. At follow-up, the yoga group had significantly lower stress and anxiety, and higher accuracy on working memory tasks. Remote moderate intensity yoga practice proved safe, enjoyable, and may reduce stress and improve cognitive functioning. This study was pre-registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04740229).

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)720-731
Number of pages12
JournalJournal of Behavioral Medicine
Volume46
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 2023

Keywords

  • Cognition
  • Physical activity
  • Technology
  • Yoga

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Psychiatry and Mental health
  • General Psychology

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