Response of Paschimottanasana and Kapalabhati on anthropometric parameters in obese individuals as per Prakriti

Abstract

Modernization, affluence, science and technological development have lead to still more sedentary life styles. By exposing oneself to all these factors human beings have unknowingly invited a number of diseases. Among which obesity is one of the most hazardous factor. Some Yoga postures like Paschimottanasana and Kapalabhati help to reduce weight with significant health benefits. But their response in obese individuals as per Prakriti was different; it may be due to change of Doshic composition in different individuals, i.e. main dominating factor in formation of Prakriti. Total 60 grade-1 obese subjects diagnosed as per WHO criteria were registered in Department of Kriya Sharir BHU Varanasi, India. These subjects were divided into two groups by random sampling method in group I and II. Group-I individuals were advised diet restriction plan whereas subjects of group II were suggested with Paschimottanasana and Kapalabhati as well as diet restriction plan. All the individuals were evaluated for anthropometric parameters like weight, BMI, WC, HC, WHR, BF % and VF %. For intra group comparison and inter group comparison paired sample t-test and independent sample t-test was applied. Statistical analysis showed highly significant response in terms of reduction in values for all the anthropometric parameters as per Prakriti after performing Paschimottanasana and Kapalabhati along with diet restriction in group II. Our study concludes that regular practice of Paschimottanasana and Kapalabhati along with diet restriction is more helpful in reducing obesity and this reduction was more in Kapha Vata Prakriti individuals.