StressLess Yoga Study

StressLess Yoga Study: A Scientific Exploration of Yoga for Stress Reduction

The purpose of this study is to assess the feasibility and acceptability of using an asynchronous online yoga program to reduce stress. The study will use an 8 week asynchronous yoga intervention of two different types of yoga (high in breath work and meditation; low in vigorous movement/postures vs. low breath work and meditation; high movement/postures). In addition to self-report stress, measures include sleep, heart rate variability, mindfulness, Essential Properties of Yoga, and acceptability questions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged 18 years or older
• Self-identification as "stressed"
• Scoring 8 or higher on the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) indicating moderate-to-high stress
• Willingness to complete the 8-week yoga intervention
• Willingness to attend baseline and follow-up visits
• Ability to read and write in English
• Having practiced yoga ≤ 2x in the last 6 months

Exclusion Criteria:

• Serious or unstable psychiatric illness (e.g., psychosis, mania)
• Major coexisting medical illness (e.g., cancer, COPD, obesity)