Abstract

This study examines the impact of yoga therapy interventions on yoga therapists and their clients across various health conditions. It examines which conditions they address, what practices they use, and how they perceive change through the lens of the pañcamaya model, a traditional yogic framework describing five interconnected layers of human experience: structural (annamaya), physiology (prāṇamaya), mind (manomaya), personality (vijñānamaya), and emotions (ānandamaya). The tri krama model is applied to enhance the understanding of yoga therapy interventions for treating illness (Cikitsā krama), preventing illness (Rakṣaṇa krama), and developing capacities (Śikṣaṇa Krama). A convergent mixed-methods design was employed. A Qualtrics survey was distributed to certified yoga therapists through professional networks. Quantitative data included conditions treated and tools used (e.g., movement, breathwork, meditation). Thematic analysis was selected to identify recurring patterns in qualitative responses while preserving the depth of individual insights. Quantitative and qualitative data were integrated using a side-by-side joint display to examine relationships between practices and perceived effects. Findings suggest that therapists perceive yoga therapy interventions as promoting improvements in physiological symptoms, emotional well-being, mental clarity, and inner resilience, even in clients with chronic or terminal illness. Therapists’ perspectives highlight the multidimensional impact of yoga therapy on overall health. The pañcamaya model offers a valuable lens for understanding healing beyond symptom relief, supporting the integration of holistic frameworks into health research.

Keywords:Yoga therapy; Yoga therapist; Health; Healing; Pañcamaya model