Katzman, M.A., et al., A multicomponent yoga-based, breath intervention program as an adjunctive treatment in patients suffering from Generalized Anxiety Disorder with or without comorbidities.
Viewed together, the wide range of documented benefits suggest that SKY may be an efficient tool for rapidly strengthening both mind and body. The practice has even been shown to positively impact gene expression, suggesting that the effects of SKY span all levels of the physiology from the DNA within our molecules to organ systems. In addition, SKY is associated with enhanced cardio-respiratory function, (add references) antioxidant status and immune system function. It significantly increases feelings of well-being, optimism and mental focus and improves emotion regulation. Research suggests that SKY reduces depression, anxiety, PTSD and stress It has also been shown to curb addictive behaviors and substance abuse. Its effects have been studied in open and randomized trials, both in healthy and health compromised populations. In Summary, Sudarshan Kriya uses specific cyclical, rhythmic patterns of breath to bring the mind and body into a relaxed, yet energized state.
Improved respiratory function: where respiration rate dropped by 5% in 1 week and 15% in 12 weeks and lung (vital) capacity increased Improved cholesterol and triglyceride (lipid) profile: as early as 3 weeks, with no change in diet Reduced blood pressure in both healthy and health compromised individuals Reduced heart rate in both healthy and health compromised individuals
Enhanced Cardiovascular and Respiratory Function: Improved immune cell counts in health compromised individuals seen in 12 weeks (Natural Killer Cells) īeneficial changes in our DNA which support an increased lifespan of white blood cells, our immunity cells. Some documented within three weeks (neutrophils, lymphocytes, platelet count ) Improved immune cell counts in apparently healthy individuals Increased levels of antioxidant enzymes (glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase) which protect us from many diseases and rapid aging. Since stressful physiological responses negatively impact immune, cardiovascular, endocrine and mental health, this has significant implications for wellness.ĥ0% increase in the well-being hormone prolactin from the very first session in depressed patients. Reduced biochemical markers of stress: cortisol, corticotrophin blood lactate, ACTH, and plasma MDA įor example, blood lactate levels in police cadets who did not learn SKY were 4 times higher than their classmates who were randomized to learn SKY, suggesting a greatly increased resilience to stress in SKY practitioners. Increased mental focus / heightened awareness Improved Quality of Sleep:ģx more time spent in deep restful stages of sleep Physical Well-being: Enhanced biochemical status: Increases levels of optimism, well being and quality of life Enhanced brain functioning: Reduces impulsivity and addictive behaviors Significant reductions in PTSD symptoms were found in 4-6 weeks and were sustained at 6 months and one year. Multiple studies demonstrate that depressed patients who learned SKY experienced a 68-73% remission rate within one month. Significant reductions in anxiety are found in many populations, including a 73% response rate and 41% remission rate in individuals for whom medication and psychotherapy treatments had failed. Relieves anxiety & depression, PTSD symptoms and stress levels Significant Health Benefits Scientifically Documented and Published in Peer Review Journals Mental Well-being: Restoration and Enhancement of Vibrant Mental Health: Over 70 independent studies conducted on four continents and published in peer-reviewed journals, have demonstrated a comprehensive range of benefits from SKY practice. Research also demonstrates that the effects of SKY reach all the way down to the molecular level, to our DNA. Published research shows that SKY significantly reduces stress, depression, anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and significantly increases well-being both mentally and physically. Sudarshan Kriya and accompanying breathing practices, referred to collectively as SKY and taught through the Art of Living Foundation worldwide, have been found to enhance brain, hormone, immune and cardiovascular system function.