Influence of yogic breathing in increasing social connectedness among Indian adults

Abstract

Background: Loneliness is quickly becoming an enormous problem among individuals of all age groups. The onset of Covid-19 has worsened this situation. Therefore, there is urgent need for a practical intervention, which may improve the social well-being of an individual addressing the root cause of loneliness.

Aim: In this study we examine the benefits of Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY), a yogic breathing practice to enhance social connectedness among individuals by reducing stress.

Methodology: 473 participants registering for the SKY program enrolled in the current open feasible trial. Assessment of social connectedness was done using Social Connectedness Scale (SCS). Stress was measured using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) pre- and post- SKY intervention. Outcomes were measured at three different time points namely, baseline (pre-program), post-program, and day 40. Day 40 was 40 days after the completion of the Sudarshan Kriya program.

Results: Significant increase in SCS scores (p value <0.001) was found immediately after the SKY intervention. The SCS scores improved positively with regular practice of the intervention with a large effect size (p value <0.001, measured on day 40). The Stress scores significantly reduced post-intervention (p value <0.001).

Conclusion: The study suggested a positive connection between the SKY practice and subsequent improvement in social connectedness. The reduction in stress levels post SKY program as indicated in the study may be a reason of enhanced social connectedness. Large scale studies with inclusion of control group can further affirm the study results.

Keywords: Happiness; Loneliness; Social connectedness; Stress; Sudarshan Kriya; Yogic breathing.