TH-290. 'Kriya yoga', an easily deliverable tool for stress management among health care workers: Presenting electroencephalographic evidences

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Abounding physical and mental exhaustion among the health care workers (HCW) during COVID-19 pandemic rekindled the need to acknowledge the psychological impact of this unprecedented stressful situation on the first-line warriors. The rising stress among the HCW during COVID duties for many months could have long-term effects on their personal and professional life. The situation necessitated presenting a feasible solution which can positively impact mental health. Patanjali's 'Kriya yoga' amalgamates several relaxation techniques, inclusively breath modulation, pranayama, mantra chanting, and asana holding, with a potential for stress management. The effects of 'Kriya Yoga' on EEG and perceived stress among the HCW were investigated. Method(s) Participants were recruited through digital advertisements. Those meeting the eligibility criteria were enrolled in either intervention or control groups. The complete set of 'Kriya yoga' was taught to the subjects in the intervention group by a yoga expert. It included a set of six techniques comprising Breath awareness (Ana pana), Complete breath, Anulom Vilom (Alternate nostril breathing), Om chanting, Gayatri Mantra, and Shavasan (Deep Relaxation). The participants were required to practice it for a period of 6 weeks. Result(s) Data for EEG, electrodermal activity (EDA), perceived stress scale (PSS) scores and depression, anxiety and stress scores were collected at different time points. EEG was quantitatively (QEEG) analyzed for delta, theta, alpha, and beta power over several regions. We found improvement in the DASS-21 and PSS scores at the end of the practice sessions. The mean power for alpha frequency was increased in the frontal, central, and parietal regions, and for delta range was raised over the central and parietal areas. The tonic skin conductance level revealed a reduction in stress among the practitioners. The participants reported a subjective feeling of calmness, well-being, and ease of practice. Conclusion(s) 'Kriya yoga' is an easily deliverable intervention for stress mitigation among the HCW. It leads to relaxation, a decrease in anxiety, and a reduction in perceived stress. The long-term psychophysiological effects of Kriya yoga practice are depicted by the changes in the power of brain waves and EDA. The proposed intervention can be a model for the mental health well-being of the HCW in stressful circumstances. Copyright © 2022