Abstract

Individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) often encounter challenges related to both physical and mental well-being. Recognising the widely acknowledged benefits of yoga in promoting overall health, this study aimed to assess the impact of a 12-week yoga program on heart rate variability (HRV), an indicator of autonomic nervous system function, in healthy young female adults with ID. A total of 56 healthy young female adults with ID participated in the study, engaging in a tailored 12-week yoga program. Regular yoga sessions, adapted to their abilities and needs, were provided. HRV was measured using electrocardiography (ECG) at baseline and post-intervention. Age-matched peers with ID, who did not partake in the yoga program constituted the control group. Following the 12-week yoga intervention, a significant (P < 0.05) reduction was observed in systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and pulse pressure (PP) within the yoga group compared to the control group. Short-term HRV analysis revealed a significant (P < 0.05) increase in time domain parameters among the yoga group participants. In the frequency domain, high frequency (HF n.u) exhibited a significant (P < 0.05) increase, whereas low frequency (LF n.u) and LF/HF ratio displayed a significant decrease after yoga practice. This study suggests that yoga practice positively influences heart rate variability in young female adults with ID, potentially enhancing autonomic nervous system function and overall well-being. Implementing yoga programs tailored to the specific needs of individuals with ID may represent a valuable strategy for improving their physical and mental health. Further research is essential to validate these findings and explore the broader implications of integrating yoga into the care and support of individuals with ID.

Keywords

yoga, autonomic function, cardiovascular health, intellectual disabilities, autonomic nervous system