Abstract

Yoga therapy is a personalized, integrative approach rooted in traditional Indian medicine and designed to complement modern allopathic healthcare. Although its benefits are widely supported anecdotally, limited empirical research examines yoga therapists’ experiences with yoga therapy across the pañcamaya model’s multidimensional framework. This mixed-methods study used univariate analysis, bivariate analysis with Fisher’s exact test and the freeman-Haltan extension, and thematic analysis to explore how yoga therapists (n=69) perceive the impact of personal therapeutic yoga practices on various health conditions and life dimensions. Quantitative findings showed varied therapist perspectives on the benefits of a personal yoga therapy practice. Qualitative results revealed yoga therapy goals across the tri krama model: Cikitsā krama goals are therapeutic and focus on healing and recovery (1) pain relief and physical healing, (2) emotional and mental health, (3) holistic balance, and (4) functional recovery; Rakṣaṇa krama goals protect and preserve, supporting ongoing wellness (1) physical strength and graceful aging, (2) mental and emotional stability, and (3) self-awareness and sustainable routines; and Śikṣaṇa krama goals develop refinement, promoting growth and learning (1) spiritual development, (2) study of yogic philosophy and sacred texts, and (3) integration of yoga into daily life and work. Therapists’ experiences indicate that yoga therapy supports holistic well-being throughout the system, offering a comprehensive and adaptable approach to health and personal development. We build on these findings by offering suggestions for interprofessional collaboration among healthcare providers.

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