Bringing Yoga Therapy Into Mainstream Health Care: Lessons From the Cleveland Clinic and Their Relationship to Emotional Well-Being

Abstract

The occurrence of chronic and debilitating diseases is rapidly on the rise, and chronic stress has gained a permanent foothold in our culture and life style. Health care costs are steadily and precipitously increasing and are having a deleterious effect on our pocket books and our society's health. These problems are persistent and insidious. What is being done to stop these conditions in their tracks and to enhance the quality of life for those suffering from them? One response is the recognition of preventative therapies as a viable solution to some of these concerns. The system of yoga, in all its forms, is beginning to play a crucial role in healthcare service delivery. The growing body of empirical research suggests that yoga works, but is that enough?

Efficacy of Short Course of Preksha Dhyana for Functional Abdominal Pain Disorder in a Busy Pediatric Clinic

“…Of the TAU group, 30% (11) utilized daily medication vs. 46.7 % (14) in PD (p > 0.05). As-needed medication was used in 46% (17) of the TAU group compared to 60% (18) in the PD group (p > 0.05).…”

“…Incorporating yoga and meditation into a regular clinic has been challenging, not least because of the need for trained therapists, costs, and the number of sessions [Bar ( 18 ), Ross ( 19 )]. Indeed, reported costs for each 1-h session can be >$100, and insurance coverage remains difficult.…”