Yoga Research & Beyond

Ariana Raven and Jules Mitchell
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  • HEALTH & FITNESS
Yoga Research & Beyond

Are you trying to make sense of all the conflicting narratives about fitness? Learn how to ground your teaching practice in science-based research instead. The Yoga Research & Beyond Podcast helps yoga teachers and fitness professionals discern popular messages about the benefits and dangers of how our bodies move. Co-hosts Ariana Raven and Jules Mitchell discuss published research on yoga and exercise, challenge dominant trends about the human body, and teach research literacy in a fun and engaging way. About The Hosts: Ariana Raven is a yoga teacher and strength trainer who co-runs New York Stretch in NYC. For more than ten years, she’s been helping people reach their goals with a holistic approach that combines principles from yoga, exercise science, and published research. Find her at arianaraven.com. Jules Mitchell is a disrupter, yoga teacher, and the author of Yoga Biomechanics: Stretching Redefined. She is based in Las Vegas, Nevada, and leads advanced continuing education programs in biomechanics for fitness and rehab professionals worldwide. Find her at julesmitchell.com.

  1. NOV 15

    Episode 72: RCTs vs. Pilot Studies vs. Feasibility Studies: A Simple Guide for Yoga Teachers

    In this episode, Ariana and Jules get into the distinctions between randomized clinical trials (RCTs), feasibility studies, and pilot studies. They discuss the importance of understanding these methodologies in the context of yoga research and the common misconceptions surrounding them. The conversation highlights the role of preliminary studies in developing effective interventions and the significance of case studies in building evidence for future research. Additionally, they explore the concept of the null hypothesis and its implications in research design. Takeaways 🤩RCTs are designed to fully test a treatment or intervention. 🤩Feasibility studies assess the practicality of conducting a full RCT. 🤩Pilot studies serve as a 'dress rehearsal' for larger studies. 🤩Misunderstandings about research terminology are common among practitioners. 🤩Case studies can provide valuable insights for future research funding. 🤩Old research can still be relevant and informative. 🤩Understanding the null hypothesis is crucial for research integrity. 🤩Research literacy is essential for yoga teachers and practitioners. 🤩Preliminary studies help refine interventions before larger trials. 🤩Clear communication in research publications is vital to avoid misleading conclusions. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Research Methodologies 02:34 The Role of Feasibility and Pilot Studies 05:37 Misunderstandings in Research Terminology 08:22 The Importance of Case Studies 11:17 Exploring the Null Hypothesis

    17 min

  2. NOV 15

    Episode 71: Can Online Yoga Support Cancer Patients? Insights from a New Study Protocol

    In this episode, Ariana and Jules discuss a planned study on the efficacy of an online yoga intervention for cancer patients, specifically those with high-grade gliomas, and their caregivers. They explore the unique aspects of the study, including its design, the importance of trial registration, and the challenges faced in previous online yoga research. The conversation highlights the potential benefits of online yoga for improving overall well-being in this vulnerable population.   Takeaways 🌟The study focuses on high-grade glioma patients and their caregivers. 🌟Online yoga is a complementary treatment alongside traditional medical care. 🌟Trial registration ensures transparency in research methodologies. 🌟Self-reported outcomes and physiological measurements will be assessed. 🌟Caregivers often experience higher levels of anxiety and depression than patients. 🌟The study aims to alleviate distress through an eight-week yoga program. 🌟Online interventions can increase accessibility for patients with mobility issues. 🌟Previous studies faced challenges regarding safety and correct form in online yoga. 🌟The shift to online yoga due to COVID-19 may have positive implications for accessibility. 🌟Future research is needed to explore the efficacy of online yoga interventions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Yoga Study for Cancer Patients 02:40 Study Design and Methodology 05:45 The Importance of Trial Registration 08:42 Unique Aspects of the Yoga Intervention 11:17 Challenges and Insights from Previous Studies 14:33 The Future of Online Yoga Research

    19 min

  3. SEP 29

    Episode 70: The Reliability and Validity of Pain Surveys

    In this episode, Ariana and Jules discuss the significance of Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) in understanding patient experiences, particularly in the context of pain management. They delve into a specific study focused on the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) and the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK), exploring the methods used to validate and shorten these surveys for better usability. The conversation highlights the importance of reliability and validity in research, the limitations of the study, especially regarding gender representation, and the insights gained from the survey questions. The episode emphasizes the need for compassion and understanding in dealing with patients experiencing pain. Takeaways *PROMs are essential for clinicians to understand treatment plans. *The study aimed to shorten long surveys for better usability. *Reliability refers to the consistency of a test or survey. *Validity measures the accuracy of the survey results. *The biopsychosocial model is crucial in understanding pain. *Expert opinions were used to validate the survey questions. *The study had a significant male bias in its sample. *Pain experiences can differ significantly between genders. *Compassionate communication is key when dealing with pain. *Meta-science plays a vital role in developing effective surveys. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to PROMs and Their Importance 03:11 Understanding the Paper: Pain Catastrophizing and Kinesiophobia 06:09 The Process of Shortening Surveys 08:59 Reliability vs. Validity in Research 11:49 Limitations of the Study 14:57 Insights from the Survey Questions 17:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    23 min

  4. SEP 2

    Episode 69: Synchronized Breathing

    In this episode, we discuss a randomized pilot trial on synchronized breathing for chronic nonspecific low back pain. We highlight key features of the study, such as the exercise program, the patient reported outcome measurements, and the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of adding synchronized breathing. We also discuss the importance of trial registration and transparency in research. Overall, the study showed positive results in reducing back pain with synchronized breathing, but further research is needed to validate these findings. Takeaways  *Synchronized breathing may be effective in reducing chronic nonspecific low back pain. *The study used a randomized pilot trial design to assess the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of adding synchronized breathing to an exercise program.  *The exercise program included basic movements commonly found in yoga and Pilates.  *The study measured various patient reported outcome measurements, including pain catastrophizing, kinesiophobia, pain self-efficacy, and general anxiety. * Transparency in research, including trial registration and data sharing, is important for ensuring the validity and reproducibility of study findings.   Sections 00:00 Introduction and Background  05:33 Discussion on Exercise Selection and Mechanisms  11:15 Feasibility and Preliminary Efficacy  15:37 Burden and Adherence  21:18 Importance of Pre-Registering Clinical Trials  23:42 Conclusion and Future

    24 min

  5. JUL 26

    Episode 68: Yoga vs Stretching for Neck and Shoulder Pain

    In this insightful episode of the Yoga Research and Beyond podcast, hosts Jules Mitchell and Ariana Rabinovitch dive into the research paper, "Pain reduction, physical performance, and psychological status compared between Hatha yoga and stretching exercise to treat sedentary office workers with mild/moderate neck/shoulder pain: A randomized controlled non-inferiority trial." Join as we explore: Details of the intervention and adherence rates What dropout rates are and what they mean for the study What's a non-inferiority trial? A discussion on the study providing p-values but not effect sizes This episode is perfect for yoga teachers aiming to boost their research literacy and for anyone interested in understanding the nuances of scientific studies related to yoga and exercise science. Enhance your knowledge and teaching practice with evidence-based insights!

    23 min

  6. JUL 26

    Episode 67: Not All Yoga Styles Are The Same

    Join hosts Jules Mitchell and Ariana Rabinovitch in this new episode of the Yoga Research and Beyond podcast as they discuss the research paper, "Not All Yoga Styles Are the Same: An International Survey on Characteristics of Yoga Classes." They explore: The various categories and styles of yoga classified in the paper The advantages and limitations of using surveys as a research method How subjective data can be measured effectively through operational definitions  Whether you're a yoga teacher looking to enhance your research literacy or deepen your understanding of yoga styles, this discussion is tailored for you. Gain valuable insights into the diverse world of yoga practices and learn how to critically evaluate research methods and findings. Tune in to empower your teaching with evidence-based knowledge!

    21 min

  7. JUL 26

    Episode 66: Yin Yoga for Anxiety

    In this episode, we dive deep into the methods of an observational study on the effects of Yin Yoga on anxiety.  We explored these key topics:  1. Understanding Anxiety: Anxiety is a psychological, physiological, and behavioral state triggered by perceived threats to emotional security and survival. 2. State Anxiety vs Trait Anxiety: Anxiety can be a temporary response to an event or it can be a reflection of one's personality. 3. COVID-19 Impact: The pandemic's significant influence on mental health, increasing anxiety disorders, and the challenges of remote work. 4. Yin Yoga as an Effective Non-Pharmacological Intervention: The role of physical and mental exercises, particularly yoga, in alleviating anxiety and enhancing well-being. 5. Research Findings: A brief look at the details of this study conducted in Latvia during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on the effects of Yin yoga on state and trait anxiety among women.  Like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful reviews and discussions on yoga research!

    18 min

  8. JUN 12

    Episode 65: Slow Breathing

    Slow Breathing: Samavriti and Visamavriti Pranayama for Reducing Stress In our first podcast episode under the new format, we review the paper Slow breathing for reducing stress: The effect of extending exhale. Our main focus was the methods section. Here are some basics we covered: Randomization and blinding challenges in yoga research Slow breathing parameters for study inclusion/exclusion Participant screening for eligiblity Outcome measures Heart Rate Variability  (HRV) using ECG PROMIS Anxiety Score – self-reported Effect size versus p-value Intervention sources – Heart of Yoga by TKV Desikachar Conclusions yoga teachers can safely make

    29 min
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About

Are you trying to make sense of all the conflicting narratives about fitness? Learn how to ground your teaching practice in science-based research instead. The Yoga Research & Beyond Podcast helps yoga teachers and fitness professionals discern popular messages about the benefits and dangers of how our bodies move. Co-hosts Ariana Raven and Jules Mitchell discuss published research on yoga and exercise, challenge dominant trends about the human body, and teach research literacy in a fun and engaging way. About The Hosts: Ariana Raven is a yoga teacher and strength trainer who co-runs New York Stretch in NYC. For more than ten years, she’s been helping people reach their goals with a holistic approach that combines principles from yoga, exercise science, and published research. Find her at arianaraven.com. Jules Mitchell is a disrupter, yoga teacher, and the author of Yoga Biomechanics: Stretching Redefined. She is based in Las Vegas, Nevada, and leads advanced continuing education programs in biomechanics for fitness and rehab professionals worldwide. Find her at julesmitchell.com.

Information

  • Creator
    Ariana Raven and Jules Mitchell
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2024
  • Episodes
    72
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Ariana Rabinovitch
  • Show Website
    Yoga Research & Beyond

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