International Journal of Medical and Health Research

Authors
Nemjahoi Haokip, Ningthoujam Sarada, O Punyabati

Abstract
Stress exposure activates autonomic nervous system and affects cardiovascular function. Yoga practice stabilizes it. Stress levels were assessed in 50 stressed Manipuri women of 18-45 years using Holmes and Rahe Stress Scale. Electrocardiograph Cardiart 108T/MK was used to record electrocardiographic changes and to determine 30:15 R-R ratio and valsalva ratio (VR), and Hand dynamometer (IMI-2095) to determine blood pressure response to handgrip. Autonomic functions were assessed before and after three months of yoga training. Paired t test and one way ANOVA were used for analysis using statistical software SPSS version 21 of 50 participants, 8(16%) were low to moderately stressed, 32(64%) highly stressed and 12(24%) very highly stressed. Significant reduction was seen in resting heart rate (p=0.000), systolic blood pressure (p=0.000), diastolic blood pressure (p=0.000) and increase in 30:15 R-R ratio (p=0.000) and VR (p=0.000) after yoga training. Yoga provide parasympathetic dominance over sympathetic suggesting improvement in cardiovascular function.