RAJ YOGA AS ADJUVANT THERAPY FOR OBESITY AND DYSLIPIDEMIA IN METABOLIC SYNDROME SUBJECTS: A PROSPECTIVE STUDY
Background: Metabolic syndrome has been recognized as a looming epidemic of 21st century and characterized by insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, abdominal obesity, impaired glucose tolerance, dyslipidemia, hypertension etc. Raj Yoga being a meditation practice (not physical activity) is said to have beneficial effect in controlling the Obesity and Dyslipidemia. Aims & Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the effect of Raj yoga on obesity & dyslipidemia in medication group doing Raj yoga, only medication group & non-intervention group and if Raj Yoga practice be incorporated as a therapy to control Obesity and Dyslipidemia. Material & Method: Study was carried out in School of Medical Science & Research & Prajapita Brahmkumari Raj Yoga Center, Greater Noida after the ethical approval from the institute. After screening based on central obesity (waist circumference), increased fasting plasma glucose & blood pressure (IDF criteria of Metabolic syndrome, 2005), total of 160 subjects of Metabolic syndrome were selected and recruited for the study. Subjects were divided in to four groups: Group 1 (Raj Yoga + Medication), Group 2 (Raj Yoga - Medication), Group 3 (Only medication) and Group 4 (No intervention). Triglyceride and HDL-C were measured at the start of study, after six months and one year and compared for results. Result: The study revealed that medication and Raj Yoga together has beneficial effects on various parameters of obesity and dyslipidemia. Although medications is used frequently to control the obesity and dyslipidemia but Raj Yoga can be added in lifestyle as adjuvant therapy.