Yoga 4 Body Image (Y4BI): Investigating the Impact of Yoga on Body Image and Eating Behaviours

Yoga 4 Body Image (Y4BI): Investigating the Impact of Yoga on Body Image and Eating Behaviours in Young Women

The practice of yoga can positively impact body image, a psychological construct encompassing perceptual, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral aspects, which can be either positive or negative. Negative body image manifests as extreme dissatisfaction with one's body-a condition particularly common among young women-that places them at significant risk for developing Body Image Disorders (BIDs). In contrast, positive body image is characterized by an overall respect for one's body.

Current research on the impact of yoga on body image has several limitations, making it challenging to determine whether yoga practice truly has a positive effect on body image and to identify the mechanisms underlying this impact. To address these gaps, the present project aims to overcome the limitations of existing studies by investigating the impact of yoga on body image through quantitative methodologies and by exploring the mechanisms that drive this effect.

The project consists of two phases:

1. Investigating the impact of yoga on body image (both positive and negative) and eating behaviours in a population characterized by high levels of body dissatisfaction-young women.
2. Examining the psychological mechanisms underlying yoga's impact on body image, including increased interoceptive awareness, embodiment, and self-compassion, as well as a reduction in self-objectification.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Females
• Age 18-35 years old

Exclusion Criteria:

• Regular yoga practice
• Pregnancy
• Medical conditions that preclude yoga practice (e.g., neurodegenerative diseases, recent injuries, rheumatic conditions)
• Full-blown body image disorder