Recent studies have suggested that yoga may have a beneficial role in managing the symptoms of long COVID. Yoga is a mind-body practice that includes physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation or mindfulness practices. It has been shown to have a range of health benefits, including reducing stress, improving cardiovascular health, and enhancing immune function.
A study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies in November 2021 investigated the effects of a yoga intervention on the symptoms of long COVID. The study included 20 participants who had been diagnosed with long COVID and were experiencing fatigue, brain fog, and other symptoms. The participants attended twice-weekly yoga classes for eight weeks, and their symptoms were assessed before and after the intervention.
The study found that the yoga intervention was associated with significant improvements in fatigue, depression, anxiety, and overall quality of life. The participants reported feeling more energetic, alert, and focused after the yoga classes. The researchers suggested that yoga may help alleviate the symptoms of long COVID by reducing inflammation, enhancing immune function, and improving blood flow to the brain.
Another study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in March 2021 investigated the effects of a yoga and breathing intervention on post-COVID fatigue syndrome. The study included 40 participants who had been diagnosed with post-COVID fatigue syndrome and were experiencing fatigue, sleep disturbances, and other symptoms. The participants attended a six-week yoga and breathing program that included physical postures, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques.
The study found that the yoga and breathing intervention was associated with significant improvements in fatigue, sleep quality, and quality of life. The participants reported feeling more rested, relaxed, and energized after the program. The researchers suggested that yoga and breathing exercises may help alleviate the symptoms of post-COVID fatigue syndrome by improving oxygenation, reducing inflammation, and enhancing the body’s ability to cope with stress.
Overall, the research suggests that yoga may have a role in managing the symptoms of long COVID and post-COVID fatigue syndrome. Yoga may help reduce inflammation, enhance immune function, and improve blood flow to the brain, which could help alleviate fatigue, brain fog, and other neurological symptoms. Yoga may also help reduce anxiety, depression, and other emotional symptoms by promoting relaxation and stress reduction. While more research is needed to confirm the benefits of yoga for long COVID, it may be a safe and effective non-pharmacological intervention for people experiencing persistent symptoms after COVID-19. – Yogi G
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