Background:Although tension-type headache is the most prevalent primary headache disorder, affecting nearly 26-30% of the population, migraine affects approximately 14-15% globally and is associated with a considerably higher burden of disability. Migraine typically presents as recurrent, pulsatile pain accompanied by nausea, photophobia, and phonophobia. Despite long-term use of conventional treatment, chronic cases often remain refractory. In Unani medicine, this condition corresponds to the melancholic type of migraine (Shaqīqa Sawdāwiyya), caused by derangement of black bile (Sawda'). This case report presents the therapeutic role of classical Unani formulations in alleviating symptoms of chronic migraine without aura. Case Presentation:A 23-year-old female presented with a 14-year history of recurrent, unilateral throbbing and pulsating headaches associated with nausea, photophobia, and phonophobia. The episodes occurred 2-3 times per week, with each attack typically lasting approximately 48 hours and occasionally persisting for up to 72 hours. The patient had a positive family history of migraine, and previous conventional as well as homeopathic treatments failed to provide sustained relief. Based on the clinical presentation and Unani diagnostic principles, the patient was diagnosed with Shaqīqa Sawdāwiyya, corresponding to chronic migraine without aura. The patient was managed with oral and local Unani formulations along with dietary regulation and was followed up from August 2025 to October 2025, with an additional 2-week post-treatment follow-up. Results:At the final follow-up, the patient showed substantial clinical improvement, with the Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS) score decreasing from 121 to 4, accompanied by a marked reduction in symptom severity. Conclusion:The classical Unani regimen demonstrated beneficial effects in the management of the patient with chronic migraine without aura. This case highlights the potential of Unani medicine in managing migraine, which can be evaluated in larger clinical trials with robust methodologies. Keywords:Headaches, refractory migraine, neurological disorder, Migraine Disability Assessment, Unani medicine, case report, Shaqiqa.
Background:The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education is reshaping how students interact with academic content, offering personalized support through intelligent tutoring systems, adaptive platforms, and AI-driven feedback tools. While AI enhances learning efficiency, motivation, and engagement, especially in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and language education, its cognitive implications require careful examination. Objective:This article explores AI's impact on core cognitive functions such as memory, critical thinking, metacognition, and motivation, using frameworks like Bloom's Taxonomy, Cognitive Load Theory, and Self-Determination Theory. Finding:Research shows that while AI can support learning and retention, overreliance may hinder deep cognitive engagement, original thinking, and self-regulated learning. Ethical concerns, including academic integrity, algorithmic bias, and privacy risks, further challenge the effective use of AI in educational settings. Real-world applications demonstrate AI's potential when used to supplement, not replace, human instruction. Conclusion:This study underscores the need for a balanced, evidence-based approach that prioritizes AI literacy, transparent practices, and pedagogically sound integration. By aligning AI use with cognitive and motivational theories, educators can ensure technology serves as a supportive tool, promoting sustainable learning while preserving essential human-centered educational values. Keywords:Artificial Intelligence, Cognitive Functions, Educational Technology, Motivation.
Abstract:The tradition of Yoga has been an integral part of Indian culture for centuries, evolving through varied practices across India's regional and cultural contexts. Yogic practices like Asana, Pranayama, and Meditation have become popular among people mainly for their role in promoting physical and mental well-being. Among these Yogic practices, asana is the most popular limb of Yoga. Maharshi Patanjali, the father of Yoga, defined asana as a steady and comfortable posture. The practice of Yogasana is important for flexibility, strength, and fitness. This inherent connection among flexibility, strength, and discipline also finds reflection in India's art forms like Sattriya, the classical dance form of Assam introduced by the great Vaishnavite saint Srimanta Sankaradeva. This dance form involves Mati Akhara-physical exercises and postures to create various dance poses. As mentioned in the Hatha Yogic text Gheranda Samhita, asanas strengthen our bodies and make them flexible. Mati Akhara, in particular, exemplifies various bodily movements like horizontal, vertical, and circular, with various forms of bending, thereby making the body more flexible. The present study highlighted significant parallels between these movements and the postures described in Yogasanas, revealing a close connection between Sankaradeva's Mati Akhara and the tradition of Yoga, a highly under-researched area. keywords:Mati Akhara, Sankaradeva, Sattriya dance, Yogasanas, Yoga, Assam.
Introduction:Cases of uterine leiomyoma are frequent in clinical practice. Clinical symptoms and indications range from no symptoms to acute abdominal pain. Notably, pain in the abdominal flanks can also be associated with renal calculi. This case report is unique because it documents the successful management of subserosal uterine leiomyoma and renal calculi in a 19-year-old female patient using individualized Homoeopathic medicines, highlighting a holistic mind-body approach. Case Summary:The patient presented with irregular menses for 1-year, dark clotted menstrual flow, lower abdominal pain, loose stools, anxiety before defecation, and fatigue on minimal exertion. Ultrasonography of the abdomen and pelvis revealed a 5 cm × 4.2 cm subserosal uterine leiomyoma and a 7 mm right renal calculus. Intervention:Individualized Homeopathic treatment was prescribed, starting with Pulsatilla nigricans 200 C, followed by Calcarea Carbonicum 200 C, along with Saccharum lactis as a vehicle for dose administration. Outcomes:The patient experienced progressive relief in menstrual irregularity, abdominal and lumbar pain, gastrointestinal complaints, and overall fatigue. Follow-up ultrasonography of the abdomen and pelvis demonstrated resolution of the renal calculus and normalization of uterine structure. Conclusion:This case report demonstrates the potential of individualized Homoeopathic medicines in addressing both uterine fibroids and renal calculi. A holistic approach considering mental, physical, and constitutional symptoms may contribute to favourable outcomes in similar cases. keywords:Subserosal uterine leiomyoma, renal calculi, Homoeopathy, Pulsatilla nigricans, Calcarea Carbonicum, Constitutional medicine, nanomedicine.
Introduction:Traditional Thai Yoga exercise (Ruesi Dadton) is a therapeutic practice that integrates mild self-stretching, deep breathing, and self-massage to enhance physical and mental well-being. However, there is a lack of empirical evidence to support the beneficial effects of Ruesi Dadton in the treatment of depression. This study aimed to assess the effects of Ruesi Dadton on alleviating depressive symptoms in patients with depression. Methods:A pre-post research design was conducted to evaluate the effects of Ruesi Dadton therapy on two university students diagnosed with depression. The Ruesi Dadton therapy sessions were conducted thrice weekly for a duration of eight weeks, with each session lasting 50 minutes. The outcomes, including the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), were evaluated at baseline and after 8 weeks of treatment. Results:Both participants completed the pre- and post-treatment evaluations. The severity of negative symptoms, assessed using PHQ-9 and PSQI, exhibited a noticeable reduction after the eight-week treatment period. Conclusion:The findings demonstrated that Ruesi Dadton therapy, particularly combined with contemporary medication, has an advantageous effect in alleviating depressive disorder. keywords:Ruesi Dadton, Thai yoga, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), depression, university students.
Background:Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common and debilitating complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus, affecting up to 50% of patients. Standard pharmacological treatments offer limited relief and do not address the underlying pathophysiology. Yoga is a mind-body practice combining physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation, which has demonstrated potential benefits in improving metabolic parameters and psychological well-being in DPN. Emerging evidence suggests yoga may also improve functional outcomes and alleviate symptoms in individuals with DPN. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and clinical relevance of yoga in the management of DPN. Methods:Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search of MEDLINE/PubMed was conducted from inception to May 19, 2025, with Google Scholar searched as a supplementary source to enhance completeness. Eligible studies included published randomized controlled trials, crossover trials, quasi-experimental studies, and single-group pre-post studies assessing the effect of yoga in DPN. This systematic review included seven studies: four RCTs, one quasi-experimental study, and two single-group pre-post studies. Studies were screened and reviewed independently by two authors. Results:This systematic review included seven studies comprising a total of 227 participants. Yoga interventions ranged from 8 to 12 weeks. Patients with DPN reported improvements in neuropathic pain, balance, lower-limb strength, gait speed, and quality of life. No serious adverse events were noted. Conclusion:Yoga may be recognized as a safe and potentially effective adjunct therapy in improving symptoms and function of individuals with DPN. However, variability in study design, small sample sizes, heterogeneity in interventions and the overall high risk of bias in included randomized controlled trials, limited the ability to draw firm conclusions. Hence, larger, high-quality trials are recommended to validate the effect of yoga in DPN along with the underlying mechanisms. PROSPERO Registration Number:CRD420251241345. keywords:Balance, diabetic peripheral neuropathy, gait, neuropathic pain, quality of life, systematic review, yoga.
Background:As a prevalent global health issue, heart failure presents a significant challenge. However, nurse-led mobile Health (mHealth) interventions have demonstrated efficacy in fostering self-care practices, resulting in improved patient outcomes. Objective:This systematic review aimed to explore prevailing trends and approaches in nurse-led mHealth interventions and assess their effectiveness in managing patients with heart failure. Methods:An extensive literature search was conducted across six databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, MEDLINE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and SCOPUS). The search covered studies from 2015 to April 2025. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a total of 24 studies were selected based on pre-defined eligibility criteria. Two independent reviewers screened the studies and extracted the relevant data. The quality of the included studies was evaluated, and analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3. Results:The mHealth interventions improved self-care and psychosocial well-being. Specifically, these interventions enhanced quality of life, reduced depression and anxiety, and increased patient satisfaction. They also led to improved cardiac function (6-minute walk test) and reduced rehospitalization rates and healthcare costs. Conclusions:Nurse-led mHealth interventions significantly improve heart failure management by strengthening self-care practices, medication adherence, quality of life, and cardiac function, while reducing depression, anxiety, rehospitalizations, and costs. Further large-scale studies are needed to confirm their overall effectiveness. Prospero Registration no:CRD420251062783. keywords:Heart failure, mHealth, self-care behavior, clinical outcomes, quality of life, systematic review.
Background:Burnout is a debilitating syndrome associated with emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a low sense of personal accomplishment. For medical students, studies suggest that burnout related to stress may begin as early as their first year and can be associated with poor academic performance, general distress, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation. Primary Study Objective:Previous literature suggests that mindfulness training, breathing exercises, and social support can be protective against the effects of burnout. Our study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a new wellness program consisting mainly of brief, daily, mindfulness-based micro-habit training sessions. Methods/Design:The study adopted a single-group before-and-after design for a duration of eight weeks. Participants:Twelve medical students consented to participate (7 female); mean age = 26.25 years (SD = 4.4). Intervention:The micro-habit intervention is delivered by a mobile app and is supported by weekly peer-circle meetings. The micro-habits are taught by listening to self-contained 90-second mindfulness exercises, at least once daily, five days per week. Primary Outcome Measures:Maslach burnout inventory, a well-established 22-item self-report survey; Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS21), a 21-item version of the DASS42; and Weekly Stress Scale, for which participants reported their stress level in terms of one of the categories (i.e., green, amber, or red) each week. Results:The six participants who completed the post-intervention Maslach inventory exhibited a significant decline in emotional exhaustion (P = .03, 1-tailed) with a large effect size (d = 0.99). The five participants who completed the DASS21 at post-intervention averaged a considerable but non-significant decline in anxiety (d = 0.57). Conclusion:Despite the small sample size, it is encouraging that even a brief micro-habit intervention, one suited to busy medical students, can produce a considerable decrease in burnout symptoms, warranting a study with a larger cohort. keywords:burnout, mindfulness, habits, micro-habits, stress, wellness, medical students.
Background:Menopause is a natural life stage marked by hormonal shifts that often affect women's well-being. Reflexology, a safe and non-pharmacological therapy, may help support wellness during this transition. Objective:To present an overview of the literature on the effect of reflexology on menopausal problems and quality of life. Methods:The review followed the Arksey and O'Malley (2005) scoping review framework. A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed (MEDLINE), SCOPUS, CINAHL, and Web of Science using combinations of terms related to perimenopause/menopause, women, reflexology (zone therapy, foot/palm massage), and outcomes such as sleep, fatigue, stress, vasomotor and perimenopausal symptoms, depression, physiological parameters, and health-related quality of life. Article screening and reporting adhered to PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Results:Based on the inclusion criteria adopted, 11 articles were included in the scoping review. Among them, three explored the impact of reflexology on menopausal symptoms, two assessed its effectiveness in reducing depression, and another two investigated its influence on both menopausal symptoms and quality of life. One study evaluated its effect on menopausal symptoms and cortisol levels, one examined the outcomes related to sleep quality and fatigue, another focused on sleep, and one investigated quality of life. Of these studies, six were randomized controlled trials, three employed a quasi-experimental design, and two utilized a pre- and post-test control group design. Conclusion:Research on reflexology among menopausal women shows promising benefits, including reductions in menopausal symptoms, fatigue, depression, and sleep disturbances, and improvement in the overall quality of life. Further rigorous and controlled research is necessary to support the evidence before reflexology can be endorsed as a routine clinical approach for managing menopausal symptoms and enhancing women's quality of life. keywords:menopausal symptoms, depression, fatigue, sleep, quality of life, scoping review.
Background:Yoga is reported to have a beneficial impact on mental well-being, thus improving attention. Research efforts have focused on understanding how yoga influences various aspects, such as short-term memory and self-esteem, particularly among adolescents. Objective:This study aims to investigate the effect of yogic techniques on short-term memory and self-esteem in school students. Methods:The study conducted at Srinanda High School in Bolpur, West Bengal, investigated the effects of asanas, pranayama, chanting, and meditation on short-term memory and self-esteem among school students aged 12-15 years. With a sample size of 40, comprising 14 males and 26 females, the study included physically and mentally healthy participants who had provided informed consent. The study employed a single-group pre- and post-design, where participants underwent assessments using the Trail Making Test (A & B) to measure short-term memory and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale to assess self-esteem before and after engaging in yogic techniques. Results:Significant improvements were observed in short-term memory among the participants after practicing yogic techniques for one and a half months. The P values for both components of the Trail Making Test (A and B) were less than .001, indicating enhanced memory function. However, a reduction in Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale scores was observed post-intervention. Conclusion:These findings suggest that Yoga can be effective in enhancing the short-term memory of adolescents. In the future, longitudinal studies and randomized controlled trials should be conducted in this area to generalize the results. keywords:yoga, self-esteem, short-term memory, adolescents, school students.
Background:Asthma Bath is a hydrotherapeutic intervention used in naturopathy, typically administered in clinical settings, where water at varying temperatures is applied to enhance respiratory function. Aim:To assess the immediate effect of Asthma Bath on the physiological changes in respiratory functions among healthy individuals. Materials and Methods:Two hundred healthy male and female participants, aged 20 to 40 years, were recruited from the Yoga and Naturopathy College of North India. The participants were randomized to an intervention group (n=100) and a control group (n=100). The intervention group received Asthma Bath for 20 minutes, while the control group was advised to sit and breathe normally for 20 minutes. The data were collected at baseline and immediately after intervention. Results:Asthma Bath showed significant improvement in FVC (forced vital capacity), FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in one second), SBP (systolic blood pressure), DBP (Diastolic Blood Pressure), RR (Respiratory rate), pulse rate, and SpO2 (P < .05), while no significant change was observed in FEV1/FVC ratio. The control group showed significant changes in FVC, FEV1, and FEV1/FVC. Conclusion:This study reveals that Asthma Bath helps improve pulmonary function in healthy individuals. keywords:Asthma Bath, pulmonary function, naturopathy, hydrotherapy, blood pressure.
Background:Urolithiasis is a common condition that leads to serious health complications. Urinary stones have afflicted humans for millennia, with records dating back to 4800 BC. Preventing renal stone recurrence remains a common human health concern. Renal stones have been linked to an increased risk of chronic end-stage renal disease, renal failure, cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, and hypertension. Although conventional medicine provides multiple treatment options, Unani medicine offers an alternative approach, focusing on herbal remedies and holistic therapeutic practices. Aims and Objectives:This paper explores the Unani perspective on urolithiasis, examining its conceptualization and therapeutic approaches. It provides an overview of urolithiasis pathophysiology, associated risk factors, preventive measures, differential diagnosis, and its management. Methods:A systematic review was conducted by scrutinizing classical Unani texts and contemporary scientific knowledge. Classical texts like Kāmil us Sana', Al Qānūn fit Tibb, Zakhīra Khw̄arzim Shāhi, Kitāb Al Miah, Ghina Muna, Kitab al Mukhtārāt fit Tibb, Kitāb ut Taisīr, and Kitāb al Kullīyāt were surveyed and examined. Conventional databases, including PubMed, Elsevier, Scopus, Benthem Science, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, were explored and scanned using the terms "urolithiasis" and Hīṣāt al Kulya. Manuscripts were assessed from both theoretical and clinical perspectives on urolithiasis, and these were featured in the study. Conclusion:Unani medicine, rooted in humoral theory, emphasizes health and disease based on the Kayfiyāt (qualities): hot, cold, dry, and wet, rather than molecular explanations. The holism-based principles already validated through diverse research data demonstrate a rational approach to treatment with practical relevance. While modern medicine may differ in methodology, it can benefit from Unani's empirical observations. This paper explores the Unani perspective on Urolithiasis, showcasing its clinical relevance even today. keywords:Bladder calculi, Botanical medicine, Renal stone, Urolithiasis, Unani medicine.
Background:Aging is a complex biological process, defined as a gradual decline in physiological function and accumulation of cellular damage. Cellular damage occurs due to many reasons - deoxyribonucleic acid damage by reactive oxygen species, chemicals like benzo(a)pyrene, Ultraviolet/ Infrared radiation, and DNA replication error, hence influencing aging. Yoga, as an adjunct therapy, has shown potential in reversing aging markers, such as oxidative stress, malondialdehyde, oxidative DNA damage, and leukocyte telomere shortening. This narrative review aims to consolidate and clarify how yoga contributes to these anti-aging benefits while distinguishing its specific therapeutic effects. Methodology:PubMed was searched for articles published from 2000 to 2025, with keywords "yoga AND oxidative stress" and "yoga AND aging". 10 randomised clinical trials relevant to our study were identified. These involved yogic interventions, and their outcome measures included parameters such as malondialdehyde, Reduced Glutathione, Oxidized Glutathione, Glutathione Reductase activity, Total Antioxidant Status, and 8-Hydroxy-deoxyguanosine. Results and Discussion:Oxidative stress is one of the key factors that affects aging, which is not balanced by antioxidants. Reportedly, yoga can improve the levels of biomarkers associated with aging. The purpose of this review is to collate research evidence claiming the anti-aging benefit of traditional yoga practice. Conclusion:This narrative review indicates that yoga, as a lifestyle intervention, has significant potential in counteracting aging by mitigating oxidative stress and improving the body's antioxidant capacity. By improving cellular health and reducing oxidative damage indicators like malondialdehyde and DNA damage, yoga appears to be a powerful, non-pharmacological tool. This review suggests that adopting yoga can be an effective strategy in promoting healthy aging and combating the harmful effects of a sedentary lifestyle. keywords:Yoga, Oxidative Stress, Aging, Glutathione.
Objective:Hypertension is a global target for noncommunicable diseases, and meditation-based interventions (MBIs) benefit patients with hypertension (HTN). The primary objective of this scoping review is to map the globally published MBI studies on patients with HTN. The secondary goal is to identify the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in HTN. Methods:Based on the Arksey and O'Malley protocol of the Joanna Briggs Institute framework for scoping review, 5 electronic databases were searched with search terms related to HTN and meditation. The open-access articles in the English language published between 1985 and 2024 were selected. The selected articles involved MBIs. All the studies were uploaded to the Rayyan software. Two reviewers worked independently and in duplicate to screen the studies first for title and abstract, and then for full text. Data were extracted based on the template for the intervention description and replication checklist. The data were summarized and reported as a narrative summary. Results:In total, 966 studies were identified. After removing 429 duplicates, 537 studies were screened for their titles and abstracts. 467 studies were excluded based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 18 were not retrieved, and 20 were excluded with reasons. Finally, the full texts of 70 studies were read. 32 eligible studies were included in this review. The studies were divided into 3 categories based on meditation and into 7 categories based on outcome. Moreover, no study involving human subjects has analyzed the level of BDNF in HTN patients receiving MBIs. Conclusion:MBIs have shown promising results among HTN patients. There is a research gap in studies related to BDNF and meditation among hypertensive patients. The limitation of the review is the inclusion of open-access articles published only in the English language. keywords:Hypertension, Meditation, Mindfulness, Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor.
Background:Maternal-fetal attachment is crucial in maternal well-being and fetal development. Various interventions have been explored to enhance this bond during pregnancy, with Leopold's maneuvers emerging as a potential hands-on technique to improve fetal awareness and prenatal attachment. However, limited research has examined the effectiveness of Leopold's maneuvers in strengthening maternal-fetal bonding, particularly among primigravida women. Objective:This study aims to assess the impact of Leopold's maneuvers on maternal-fetal attachment and fetal position awareness among primigravida women in their third trimester. Methods:A quasi-experimental pretest and posttest study was conducted in primary healthcare centers in Pune, Maharashtra, India. A sample of 162 primigravida women between 34-36 weeks of gestation was recruited and assigned to experimental and control groups. The experimental group received training on Leopold's maneuvers, while the control group practiced Mindfetalness. Data were collected using the Maternal Antenatal Attachment Scale and Fetal Position Awareness Scale and analyzed using SPSS software. Results:The experimental group showed a significant increase in maternal-fetal attachment (P < .001) and fetal position awareness (P < .001) compared to the control group. Conclusion:Leopold's maneuvers significantly improve maternal-fetal attachment and fetal awareness. Incorporating this intervention into routine prenatal care can enhance maternal engagement and bonding, benefiting both the mother and the child. Further studies should explore the long-term effects of Leopold's maneuvers and compare their efficacy with that of other prenatal bonding interventions. keywords:maternal-fetal attachment, Leopold's maneuvers, mindfetalness, prenatal bonding.
Background:Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, jaw muscles, and surrounding tissues. The major signs and symptoms of TMD include chronic pain and reduced range of jaw movement, adversely impacting the quality of life. Psychological factors, such as stress, anxiety, and depression, contribute to the development and exacerbation of TMD. Yoga, an effective mind-body intervention for physical and psychological symptoms, lacks a standardized module for TMD patients. Objective:The present study aims to develop, validate, and pilot test a yoga module for patients with TMD. Methods:A literature review was conducted using classical yoga texts and databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, with keywords such as 'yoga', 'orofacial pain', 'stress', and 'Pranayama'. Based on this, a preliminary yoga module was designed and validated by 40 yoga experts using Lawshe's Content Validity Ratio (CVR), calculated for each practice, and pilot testing was conducted for feasibility. Results:The proposed yoga module, consisting of 35 practices, was reviewed by yoga experts. Practices with a CVR ≥0.29 were included in the final yoga module; 29 practices were retained, and 6 were excluded. Pilot testing was conducted on 20 patients with TMD over one month, demonstrating significant reductions in pain (P = .02), perceived stress (P = .01), and improved mouth opening (P = .04). 20 patients found the validated yoga module feasible and easy to practice, with no adverse effects reported. Conclusion:The validated yoga module supported initial effectiveness in patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD). These findings support the need for larger randomized controlled trials with broader patient demographics and longer follow-up periods to confirm its potential as a complementary therapy for patients with TMD. keywords:yoga module, validation, temporomandibular disorder, complementary therapy, orofacial pain.
Text:Dyscalculia is a mathematical learning disorder that affects an individual's ability to understand and solve arithmetic tasks. Traditional interventions focus on educational strategies, but the role of holistic approaches persists underexplored. This narrative review examined the potential benefits of yoga-based breathing techniques and meditation in managing related cognitive and emotional functioning. A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted to gather evidence on the effects of yogic breathing techniques and meditation on learning disabilities, particularly dyscalculia. The review included studies on therapeutic yoga and mind-body practices, analyzing their impact on neurological and cognitive functions. Therapeutic yoga, incorporating various postures and breathing techniques, has shown promise in alleviating symptoms of various neurological disorders, including anxiety, depression, and stress. The holistic approach of yoga addresses physical, physiological, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Preliminary evidence suggests that these benefits might extend to individuals with dyscalculia, potentially enhancing functions such as attention and working while reducing math anxiety. While significant evidence supports the cognitive benefits of yoga therapy, its specific efficacy in improving dyscalculia requires future investigation. This review highlights the need for more targeted research to establish standardized protocols and validate the integration of yogic breathing techniques and meditation as complementary therapies in dyscalculia management. keywords:dyscalculia, yogic breathing, mathematical disability, meditation.
Background:Psychosocial skills developed in an inclusive learning environment can benefit students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). However, the inclusion of students with disabilities in classroom-based learning environments often remains challenging. Objective:This multisite, cohort-based observational study, spanning a school year (August-September through May-June), examined the psychosocial development of 60 new musicians-students with IDD who participated in an inclusive school-based instrumental music program with peer mentoring for the first time. Methods:Students from eight public schools participated in the United Sound instrumental music program for an average of 45 minutes per week throughout the school year. Special education teachers assigned volunteer student musicians, referred to as peer mentors, to work closely with and support new musicians who were trained to play an instrument and perform in ensembles, bands, and orchestras. Peer-mentor training by special education teachers focused on the established United Sound curriculum and three key strategies: Communicate, Modify, and Empower. New musicians underwent psychosocial evaluations conducted by special education teachers familiar with them at the beginning and end of the school year, utilizing a novel, newly developed 10-measure direct observation assessment tool. Results:Statistically significant findings were noted in pre- and post-tests across all measures. Improvements over the baseline ranged from 8.2% to 29.8%. These include willingness to participate in non-preferred activities (9.8%), peer appropriate communications (9.1%), positive peer interactions (8.2%), empathy (14.6%), appropriate assertiveness (13.0%), impulse control (24.7%), self-confidence (18.8%), pride (13.2%), resilience (24.5%), and the ability to endure stressful environments (29.8%). Conclusion:This unique, inclusive instrumental music program with peer mentoring should be considered an integral component of the educational framework in all schools, as it has the potential to improve the psychosocial development and the future potential of students with IDD. keywords:inclusive music education, intellectual and developmental disabilities, peer mentoring, psychosocial outcomes.
Background:Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is defined as an abnormality in kidney structure or function, persisting for more than three months. It is a multifaceted condition causing renal dysfunction and progression to end-stage kidney disease. Complementary and alternative medicine, including yoga and naturopathy, has demonstrated effectiveness in treating and preventing several conditions linked to CKD. Objective:This study aims to investigate the impact of yoga and naturopathy on renal function and serum electrolytes in CKD patients. Materials and Methods:50 patients diagnosed with CKD underwent yoga and naturopathy-based lifestyle modification for 30 days. Renal function (including urea, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), uric acid, glomerular filtration rate (GFR)) and serum electrolytes (including calcium, potassium, sodium, phosphorus, chloride, and bicarbonate) were assessed before and after the intervention. Results:Results of the study showed a significant reduction in urea, creatinine, BUN, potassium, phosphorus (P < .001 for all variables), sodium (P < .005) and chloride (P < .05), and an increase in GFR and calcium (P < .001), with no significant changes in uric acid (P = .268), and bicarbonate (P = .112) in the post-test assessments compared to pre-test assessments. Conclusion:Yoga and naturopathy-based lifestyle modification help to improve the renal function of CKD patients. However, the small sample size and lack of a control group limit the scope of this study. Hence, further randomized controlled trials with a larger sample size are recommended to validate the results of the study. keywords:alternative medicine, chronic kidney diseases, hydrotherapy, lifestyle medicine, naturopathy, nutrition, yoga.
