Examining the Impact of Heated Yoga on Rumination and Mindfulness

INSTITUTIONS: Massachusetts General Hospital

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: Maren Nyer

CO-INVESTIGATOR: Louisa Sylvia (MGH)

REGION: USA

Overview:

This study will examine how doing yoga in a heated room can expand an individual's mindfulness and decrease rumination.

Abstract: 

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of heated yoga on expanding one's perception box, specifically focusing on improvements in mindfulness and reduced rumination. The study will compare heated yoga to non-heated yoga, heat alone, and a no yoga/no heat control group. Previous research on heated yoga intervention for depression has shown promising results, including increased mindfulness and decreased rumination. The researchers aim to extend this work to a non-clinical sample experiencing distress but not meeting clinical criteria for depression. The heated yoga intervention will be conducted in a state-of-the-art heated dome, while the non-heated yoga group will follow a standardized protocol. The heat only group will be exposed to the same heat environment as the heated yoga group, and the control groups will receive health education materials. Eligible participants will be adults who do not regularly practice yoga or meditation but have low levels of mindfulness. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, post-treatment, and follow-up using a secure data capture system.