Streaming service Netflix has rendered about 150 staff redundant, a month after it disclosed that it was losing subscribers for the first time in a decade.
The redundancies, announced by the entertainment giant on Tuesday, will mainly affect its US office in California. They account for about 2% of its North American workforce.
Netflix said the job losses were due to the slump in the company’s revenue.
“These changes are primarily driven by business needs rather than individual performance, which makes them especially tough as none of us want to say goodbye to such great colleagues,” the company said in a statement.
It wasn’t disclosed which parts of the business would see job losses, but the Los Angeles Times reported that recruiting, communications and also the content department were all affected.
In April, the streaming giant shocked the industry when it revealed it had lost 200,000 subscribers in the first three months of 2022, and warned another two million were expected to quit in the coming quarter.
The news sparked an investor sell-off, with the firm’s stock plunging 35% in one day. It is now trading at $190 (£152), a 46% drop on its previous premium.
While Netflix has 220 million subscribers globally and remains the clear market leader, it has faced fierce competition in recent years with the arrival of competitor platforms such as Disney Plus, HBO, and Amazon’s Prime Video.
In its earnings report last month, the company also said the war in Ukraine and the decision to raise its prices in the US had cost it subscribers.
Pulling out of the Russian market alone had cost the service 700,000 members, it revealed.
‘Koti’ hitmaker, Ayesem is out with a new single ‘Julie’ which according to the Artiste is a true-life story of a friend’s younger sister.
In the song, Ayesem, who used an alias to tell the story of the lady whose preoccupation was using every means available to her to belong to the upper class prescribed the end of every gold-digger.
“Julie used her body as the fastest means to chill with the big boys. She ended pregnant and the man she was pregnant for jilted her,” Ayesem narrated in the song.
In the amapiano Willis Beat produced song, Ayesem continued; “Julie had no option than to give birth. The child had no father as none of the men Julie had affair with took responsibility. Now it is up to her to raise the child as a single parent.”
Julie later died according to Ayesem and before her passing away, she was paralysed. “It is a very sad story but I had to keep it short in the song” Ayesem added.
He mentions that even though he felt the strong urge to compose a song on the incident, he had to release the song after the demise of the said lady because he did not want to revisit the pain of the family whilst she was alive and paralyzed.
Known officially as Stephen Siaw, Ayesem who is celebrated for his prolific song writing skills mentions that the song is to admonish ladies to be responsible and work hard and not depend on men for survival.
Ayesem has also revealed that he will release his ‘Journey to the West’ album later this year.
Award-winning Ghanaian highlife musician, Brenya, will on June 18, 2022 represent Ghana at the coveted Iconik show, organised by One Viktory in Paris, France. The event is a fashion, conference and musical show.
Speaking on his scheduled debut performance in France, Brenya said the Paris show comes as a great opportunity for him to showcase to the world what he is capable of as a musician.
Iconik by One Viktory is an event that will showcase everything I stand for as an artist, such as my music and the culture of being fashionable and mingling with like-minded folks.
“This isn’t my first time working with One Viktory, and it is not the last time too, I’m confident Iconik will be a memorable event. I can’t wait to go out there and spread the message of positivity, self-confidence and love,” he said.
The event organisers in an interview said: “We are excited to have Brenya perform for our audience.”
One Viktory is a media, culture and fashion company located in New York (USA), Brazzaville, and Pointe Noire (Congo).
The company has a long-standing relationship with Brenya.
In 2019, they commissioned him to compose the theme song for the company, titled ‘Be The One’.
Abubakari Iddrisu Bajo, Regional Secretary of UPNMG
Regional Executives of UPNMG educating Members and new entrants
The Regional Executives of the Union of Professional Nurses and Midwives Ghana (UPNMG) in the Upper West Region has assured its members and new entrants of fighting for their interests and welfare.
The objective of the Union is to improve the economic growth and social status of nurses and midwives in the county, through the mobilisation and judicious use of their resources.
The Upper West Regional Secretary of UPNMG, Mr. Abubakari Iddrisu Bajo, said the UPNMG had come to provide the needed support for nurses and midwives, and that one doesn’t have to wait for his or her retirement benefit to build a house or start an investment.
Regional Executives with Members and New entrants
He made this known last Thursday, when the UPNMG executives took a tour to some of the districts in the regional offices which included Sissala East, Daffiama Bussia Issa (DBI) and Wa East to familiarise themselves with the members and create awareness of the Union and campaign for new membership.
The executives that were part of the tour were Mr. Kenneth Naaeder, Regional First Vice President, Mr. Iddrisu Abubakar Bajo, Regional Secretary, Mrs. Babadaaratenge Mary, Regional Finance Officer, Mr. Awinnid Daniel, Deputy Regional Secretary, Mr. Edgar Dapillaah, Wa Municipal Secretary, and Mr. Wisdom Dery, Wa Municipal President.
According to him, the UPNMG was there to empower the nurses and midwives with knowledge and the requisite resources to help them improve their lives.
He indicated that the Union also had its legal representation and its members hadn’t been left out when it came to representation at the law courts, and that the legal team had already represented some members on their issues and would continue to do so.
The Regional Secretary of UPNMG said the Union had some policy initiatives which members could access like the Housing Scheme, UPNMG Mart, Loan Scheme and UPNMG Insurance Scheme.
He further explained that the UPNMG Mart Shceme is a Scheme that is launched for the union members to purchase items such as Mattresses, Television sets, Washing machine, Mobile phones, Air conditioners, Ovens, Burners, and that coming years motorbike and other bigger items would be added and irrespective of your location once you contact the MART officer you get served.
President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday in Abuja signed into law, three bills aimed at improving the anti-money laundering and counter terrorist financing/proliferation financing framework in Nigeria.
The bills are: the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Bill, 2022, the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Bill, 2022, and the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Bill, 2022.
Speaking at a signing ceremony at the Council Chamber, State House, the President described the bills as being in tandem with this administration’s commitment to fight corruption and illicit financing activities, as well as critical to the governance agenda and the development of Nigeria, a statement signed by presidential spokesperson Femi Adesina said.
“The new laws have provided enough punitive measures and containment strategies against abuses and compromises,” he said, noting that the inadequacy of all the repealed Acts had impacted legal actions against offender.
“We will not rest until we rid the nation of the menace of money laundering, terrorism, and other financial crimes,” he added.
President Buhari commended the National Assembly for their tenacity, courage and commitment in ensuring that Nigeria has put in place effective measures to address the menace of money laundering, terrorism, and terrorism financing.
The President noted that the 9th National Assembly has proven to be patriotic, responsive, resourceful and industrious in its legislative assignments, recalling that on 14th January, 2022, he had sought expeditious passage of the said Bills.
He lauded the Assembly under Senate President Ahmed Lawan and the Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila and their colleagues for responding to his request, saying they “have certainly carved out a worthy legacy for themselves.”
President Muhammadu Buhari and new Somali President, Hassan Mahmud
President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday congratulated the newly elected Somali President, Hassan Sheikh Mahmud, “for successfully staging a comeback after being unseated in 2017.”
According to a statement signed by presidential spokesperson Garba Shehu, the President said that “the re-election of Hassan Mahmud is a significant indication that the people of Somalia appreciate his efforts to unite and rebuild the country after decades of civil war and terrorist activities.
“President Mahmud’s return to power is a resounding vote of confidence in his ability and leadership skills, which he had demonstrated while he was previously in power, but most importantly signifies that Somalians are committed to a democratic process.”
President Buhari however noted that “other political parties and leaders in the country should unite and rally round President Mahmud in the difficult task of rebuilding Somalia from the ruins of war and terrorist devastations.”
Additionally, he commended the out-going president, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed Farmaajo, for his swift acceptance which inevitably will lead to a peaceful transition in the best interest of the people.
President Buhari reassured the new Somali leader that “Nigeria will continue its usual support for peace keeping efforts in Somalia,” adding that “African countries must unite against terrorists and other evil forces seeking to disrupt and destroy our territories.”
President Muhammadu Buhari will leave on Thursday for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to meet with the Asian nation’s new President, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed.
Announcing his departure, presidential spokesperson Garba Shehu said the President’s trip is to convey his condolences on the passing of the former president and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed.
The President “will also extend his congratulations to the new President, renewing bonds of the longstanding friendship between Nigeria and the UAE.
“The President, in an earlier congratulatory message to the new UAE leader, had reaffirmed Nigeria’s cordial relationship with the country, noting that the cooperation between both governments have helped Nigeria in tracking down illegal assets and tracing terrorist funds.
“Under the new leadership, President Buhari looks forward to a bigger and stronger partnership for peace, stability and prosperity of both countries.
“President Buhari will be accompanied by the Minister of State Foreign Affairs, Amb. Zubairu Dada, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Mohammed Bello, and the Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika.
“Other members of his delegation are the National Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Mohammed Monguno (Rtd) and the Director-General, National Intelligence Agency, Ambassador Ahmed Rufai Abubakar.”
“President Buhari will be accompanied by the Minister of State Foreign Affairs, Amb. Zubairu Dada, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Mohammed Bello, and the Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika.
“Other members of his delegation are the National Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Mohammed Monguno (Rtd) and the Director-General, National Intelligence Agency, Ambassador Ahmed Rufai Abubakar.”
Information has it that a serious road traffic accident occurred along the Lameco-Okinni road in Thursday.
The accident which involved a commercial motorcyclist, a minibus and a tipper has degenerated into uncontrolled protests along the axis.
The protests it was gathered is between minibus (koropel) drivers and commercial motorcyclists (Okada)
An eyewitness, Tobiloba Ali in a message to DAILY POST said, “It was a fatal one indeed, had to come down from the minibus when the bikers wanted to attack us. Three people on the bike were involved in the incident, the korope and a tipper. According to a witness, the incident claimed a life.”
Another eyewitness Agboola Adeleke revealed that a motorist, Sariyahu Jamiu and Rashidat Hassan escaped being attacked by the angry commercial motorcyclists who were protesting the loss of life of one of their own.
He said the affected road has been blocked by suspected hoodlums and all the escape routes are surrounded by touts.
Meanwhile, residents and business owners have called on the Osun State Police Command and other security agencies to take urgent action to curtail the ongoing crisis along Lameco/Okinni road as a result of the accident.
They also wanted the authorities to act fast so as to forestall the possible escalation of the situation and breakdown of law and order.
At the time of filing this report, neither the Osun Sector of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) nor the Osun State Police Command has reacted to the development.
The Cedi weakened against the dollar this week, sliding to 7.72 from 7.53 at last week’s close. That came after the Bank of Ghana sold $50m into the market in its latest FX auction, considerably less than $162m of bids made—disappointing traders and causing the Cedi to trade on the backfoot. The central bank also this week announced a bulk gold buying programme to boost its gold reserves in a bid to strengthen the Cedi without impacting inflation—which hit 23.6% in April. While the success of that programme will be closely watched, we believe the Cedi will continue to lose ground against the dollar in the near term.
Africa divergence from global rate hikes likely
India’s recent ban on wheat exports has pushed grain prices even higher, piling further stress on African nations already heavily impacted by global supply disruptions. While the ban won’t apply to existing contracts between India and Egypt, it is likely to have far reaching consequences for wheat importers such as Kenya and Nigeria. Imports account for 98% of Nigeria’s wheat supply, for example. Meantime, economic stagnation and soaring prices in Zimbabwe have prompted the government to suspend import tariffs to enable its citizens to get access to food and other basic commodities from neighbouring countries. Zimbabwe’s inflation rate hit 96.4% last month from 72.7% in March. Given those economic strains across the continent, we expect African central banks to diverge from the global rate hiking trend to focus on supporting their economies.
Naira
Naira hits record low 600 before elections
The Naira dropped to a new low this week, depreciating to 600 from 594 as politicians rushed to buy dollars for vote hunting ahead of Nigeria’s primary elections that kick off this weekend. Central bank Governor Godwin Emefiele effectively ended his bid for the presidency after he missed deadlines to formalise his candidacy and resign from his post at the bank. Nigeria’s inflation rate jumped to 18.37% in April from 17.2% a month earlier amid rising food and energy prices. We expect the Naira to depreciate further in the short term, however we expect gradual appreciating in the longer term as recipients of the political dollars reconvert to local currency via the parallel market.
Rand
Rand gains with 50 basis points hike expected
The Rand strengthened against the dollar this week, trading at 15.91 from 16.29 at Friday’s close. Inflation came in at 5.9% for April, unchanged from March and continuing to test the upper boundary of the central bank’s target range of 3%-6%. The bank is likely to quicken the pace of its interest rate rises after three consecutive 25-basis-point hikes, with a 50-basis-point increase on the cards at its next meeting. That action is expected given the inflationary risks posed by a weaker Rand and the more hawkish tone from the US Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank, which has reduced the appeal of South African assets for foreign investors. We believe the Rand will continue trading at around the 16 level in the week ahead.
Egypt
Inflation dampens Egyptian Pound outlook
The Pound appreciated marginally against the dollar this week, trading at 18.29 from 18.31 at last week’s close. That move was partly due to a weaker greenback and improved GDP forecasts, with economists predicting growth of 5.6% for the current financial year, up from a previous estimate of 4.8%. However, Egypt’s inflation climbed to a near three-year high of 13.1% in April, up from 10.5% in March, with looming foreign debt payments to the IMF and others adding to the potential challenges ahead. To that end, we expect this week’s Pound strengthening to be short-lived as the medium-term outlook dims.
Kenya
Kenyan Shilling slides as drought worsens
The Shilling weakened marginally against the dollar this week, trading at 115.97 from 115.93 at last week’s close. That came as a worsening drought in the east Africa region has left 3 ½ million Kenyans in need of food aid—up from 3.1 million in February. Meantime, opposition leader Raila Odinga is now favourite to win August’s election after an opinion poll showed him pulling ahead. Odinga this week named Martha Karua as his running mate, which would make her the country’s first female deputy president if Odinga defeats current Deputy President William Ruto. We foresee sustained pressure in coming days as inflation persists.
Uganda
Household spending recovery to boost Ugandan Shilling
The Shilling stumbled against the dollar this week, depreciating to 3658 from 3598 at last week’s close—taking its losses against the greenback to 4.07% over the past four weeks. However, we believe an increase in Ugandan household spending should start to halt those losses. We expect real household spending to grow by 6.3% this year from 5% in 2021, driven by our view that unemployment levels will fall and the international tourism sector will recover. Against that backdrop, we expect the Shilling to appreciate over the coming weeks.
Tanza
Tanzanian Shilling steady amid inflation spike
The Shilling depreciated slightly against the dollar this week, trading at 2326 from 2325 at last week’s close. Inflation rose sharply in the first quarter, with Russia’s war in Ukraine pushing oil prices higher. Food prices were also up, with sorghum rising 27% compared to the first quarter of 2021, while tea sales decreased by 16.2% over the same period as bad weather hampered production. Meantime, Tanzania’s national debt increased by $6.4bn to $37.8bn in March. Despite that slew of negative data, we expect the Shilling to be relatively stable against the dollar over the coming week.
Yoga has evolved to become one of the most commonly used complementary and alternative health practices in the world. Today, Yoga is even more popular than chiropractic adjustments, osteopathic manipulations, meditation, herbal treatments and massage therapy.
A 2012 article in the New York Times authored by William J. Broad, created a controversy on Yoga suggesting that some people get seriously injured, or even die, on their Yoga mats.How true is this? Our extensive review of literature revealed that the article by William Broad, adapted from the book The Science of Yoga: The Risks and Rewards, which suggested that Yoga caused widespread harm to its practitioners; from ruptured disks to stroke to brain injury, was largely based on selected anecdotes. That same year, it was also reported that more than 20 million Americans practiced Yoga, making it one of the most popular forms of exercise. It has also been reported by Neil MacFarquhar(2015) in the New York Times that Vladimir Putin, a devotee of “macho sports,” added downward dog to his repertoire.The question here is whether Yoga affects our health as compared to other exercises such as tai chi and meditation.In this article, we explore what Yoga is, together with its scientific underpinning from a purely objective standpoint.
First ever Yogastudy
Group Yoga exercise training
Patel and North, (1975) conducted the first randomized trial on Yoga in which was published in The Lancet. The study found that Yoga was more effective than relaxation for reducing high blood pressure. That trial was however a retrospective study. Further,all the participants already had high blood pressure and the study only involved 34 people, making it difficult to know the effect of Yoga on a larger prospective trial of healthy people. We examine this in this article.
Yoga, Origin
Yoga is derived from the root yuj
The Sanskrit word Yoga is derived from the root “yuj”, which means‘to attach, join, harness, yoke’. In the 4th Century BCE, there was avery renowned Sanskrit philologist, grammarian, and revered scholar in ancient India namedPāṇini. He wrote that the term Yoga could be derived from either of two roots: yujir Yoga (to yoke) or yuj samādhau (to concentrate). In the context of the Yoga Sutras, the root yuj samādhau (to concentrate) is considered the correct etymology by traditional commentators.
Yoga, Definition
According to the Vaiśeṣika Sūtrawhich was authored by the Hindu sage Kanada, also known as Kashyapa, Yogais ‘pleasure and suffering arising as a result of the drawing together of the sense organs, the mind and objects. When that does not happen because the mind is in the self, there is no pleasure or suffering for one who is embodied’.
Yoga is derived from the root yuj
Katha Upanishad also defines Yoga as “when the five senses, along with the mind, remain still and the intellect is not active, that is known as the highest state. They consider Yoga to be firm restraint of the senses. Then one becomes un-distracted for Yoga is the arising and the passing away“.
Shrimad Bhagavad Gita is a 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the epic Mahabharata and is considered to be one of the holy scriptures for Hinduism. It captures Yoga as “Be equal minded in both success and failure. Such equanimity is called Yoga” (2.48).
To a lay man’s understanding, Yoga means ‘union’ or ‘connection’.Yoga is a state of connection and a body of techniques that allow us to connect to anything.The practice aims to create union between body, mind and spirit, as well as between the individual self and universal consciousness. Such a union tends to neutralize ego-driven thoughts and behaviors, creating a sense of spiritual awakening.Yoga combines physical exercises, mental meditation and breathing techniques to strengthen the muscles and relieve stress.The secret of Yoga is awareness and consciousness of wellbeing.
Patañjali, also called Gonardiya, or Gonikaputra, was a sage in Ancient India who outlined an eightfold path of Yoga which offers a guide to individuals who are dedicated to creating a union between body, mind and spirit.
Yoga: Practices
Yamas – Five universal, ethical and moral observances to live by (nonviolence, truthfulness, non-stealing, continence and non-covetousness)
Niyamas – Five spiritual and self-discipline observances (cleanliness, contentment, spiritual austerities, study of scriptures and surrender to God)
Asana – physical posture, originally intended only for seated meditation, but more recently adapted to encompass all physical Yoga practices
Pranayama – breathing exercises to control the flow of prana (vital life force)
Pratyahara – Withdrawal of the senses
Dharana – Single pointed concentration
Dhyana – Meditation
Samadhi – Liberation or blissful union with the Divine
Yoga: Types
Types of Yoga
Hatha Yoga
Hatha is the Sanskrit word meaning force,which works on the harmony between the chakras and energy points.Hatha Yoga comprises many physical postures and positions that balance the body and mind.Hatha Yoga purifies and heals our mental system. Regular practice of Hatha leads to weight loss and toned muscles.
Ashtanga Yoga
Of the many Yoga forms, Ashtanga is one of the most athletic forms of Yoga.Ashtanga Yoga is a dynamic, set sequence of poses, breathing, and focal points.Ashtanga Yoga has eight pillars: Principles, personal discipline, asana and postures, pranayama, withdrawal, concentration, meditation and salvation.
Types of Yoga
Vinyasa Yoga
Vinyasa Yoga is a good choice for people who like high-intensity exercises. In addition, Vinyasa Yoga is ideal for anxiety, depression, blood pressure and sleep.Meditation is a part of advanced vinyasa Yoga practices, making the form more mindful.Vinyasa Yoga is a good choice for people who like high-intensity exercises.
Kundalini Yoga
Kundalini Yoga is known as Yoga of Awareness.The term “Kundalini” comes from the Sanskrit word “kundal”, which means “circular”.Kundalini Yoga is a form of Yoga that involves chanting, singing, breathing exercises, and repetitive poses. Compared with other forms of Yoga, Kundalini Yoga is a more spiritual practice.
Iyengar Yoga
Iyengar is a form of hatha Yoga that focuses on proper alignment and precise technique. Iyengar Yoga has effectively treated musculoskeletal disorders and disabilities of the spine.Iyengar Yoga helps in the management of gynecological and gastroenterological diseases.
The Science behind Yoga
Yoga, Flexibility support
Studies demonstrate that Yoga aids flexibility
Two leading organizations; Yoga Journal and Yoga Alliance(2016)conducted a global survey examining a variety of statistics about Yoga in an attempt to quantify its value amid ever-increasing popularity. They found that, the reason people opted for Yoga was to make them flexible.
Additionally, two studies(Amin and Goodman, 2013; Polsgrove et al., 2016)also found that being flexible is a significant aspect of physical health. The study was of the view that, though many Yoga types exist, the lowest intensity styles have been found to increase flexibility.
A recent study on flexibility by Sivaramakrishnan et al., (2019)found that Yoga appears to be good in improving flexibility in adults aged 65 and older.
Yoga and Stress
Yoga aids in stress management, according to studies
High levels of stress has become a major issue in Ghana and the world at large. The science suggests that people battling stress can benefit fromYoga. This has been supported by Shohani et al., (2018) which found thatYoga, especially asana, is excellent in reducing stress. Apart from the physical aspect, meditation, breath work, and auditory rituals, like chanting and sound baths, have all also been shown to significantly lessen tension and relieve stress(Goldsby et al.,2017).
Yoga, Mental Health
Movement-based Yoga therapies and breathing-based practices were found to significantly improve depressive symptoms.
Bridges & Sharma(2017) meta-analysis of 23 interventions looking at the effects of Yoga-based treatments on depressive symptoms overwhelmingly concluded that Yoga can now be considered an effective alternative treatment for MDD.Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most common mental health disorders in the world.Anotherstudy by Streeter et al., (2017) also revealed that both movement-based Yoga therapies and breathing-based practices were found to significantly improve depressive symptoms.
Yoga and Inflammation
Studies demonstrate linkage between Yoga and cardiovascular health
According to Pahwa et al., (2021), there is a link between cardiovascular disease, diabetes and other chronic diseases to chronic inflammation. However, the good news is that, one review which examined 15 studies by Djalilova et al., (2018) found a common result: Yoga; of various styles, intensities, and durations; reduced the biochemical markers of inflammation across several chronic conditions.
Yoga and Strength
Yoga Study found improves strength in breast cancer, older adults, and children.
Apart from stretching and flexibility, some types of Yoga classes can also be considered strength-building. The review by Divya et al., (2019) found Yoga asana as a multimodal form of exercise.Other studies by Yagli et al.,(2015) and Pereira et al., (2016) also found improved strength in breast cancer patients, older adults, and children. Additionally, another study by Harder et al., (2015)on air force personnel found Yoga to be an effective strength-building practice across many age groups of healthy participants.
Yoga and Anxiety
Yoga asana may be effective as an alternative treatment for anxiety disorders
Two studies (Duan-Porter et al., 2016; Shohani et al., 2018) held the view that Yoga asana may be effective as an alternative treatment for anxiety disorders, though all of the researchers requested additional replicated studies before conclusively stating as much. Additionally, one study by Ferreira-Vorkapic et al., (2018) found that Yoga nidra, which is a body scan/guided meditation, reduces symptoms of anxiety.
Yoga and Quality of Life
Yoga improves QOL
A study by Ediebah et al., (2018) found that Quality of Life is significant predictor of people’s longevity and patients’ likelihood of improvement when treated for a chronic illness or injury. A 2019 meta-analysis showed promising potential for Yoga to improve QOL in people with chronic pain.
Yoga, Immunity
Yoga boost immune health
One study by Natalie et al., (2019) found that Yogafights inflammation and improves cell-mediated immunity.
Yoga, Balance
Constant Yoga practice may balance people(Jeter et al., 201
A review of the research conducted By Jeter et al., (2014) on healthy populations found that constant Yoga practice may balance people. Osth et al., (2019) research suggests Yoga can improve balance in older populations. However, more studies with large sample sizes are needed before a general conclusion can be drawn.Kristine et al., (2019) also found that Yoga asana can also be helpful at improving balance in people with brain injuries. Others such as, Adaptive Yoga or chair Yoga also support older people.
Yoga and Cardio Support
Yoga aids heart health
Pranayama, another aspect of Yoga normally term “yogic breathing,” plays significant role in heart health. Saoji et al., (2019) review of 1,400 studies examined the impact of pranayama. The review found that yogic breathing can improve the functioning of several systems in the body. The study additionally found that the cardiovascular system is one aspect which Yoga breathing supports. The study finally asserted that yogic breathing may actually influence the brain’s cardiorespiratory center to improve functioning.
Yoga and Sleep
Yoga improves sleep
In measured sleep, scientists examine a person’s ability to both fall asleep and stay asleep. This is because these are the two ways by which insomnia can affect people.Two studies (Dolezal et al., 2017; Wang et al. 2020) demonstrated that Yoga improves one’s ability to fall asleep and how deeply they stay asleep. The reason being that, Yoga has aftereffects of exercise together with mental calming and stress relief.
Two other studies(Datta et al., 2017; Moszeik et al., 2020) also found that, apart from Yoga improving anxiety, there are many studies that demonstrate that Yoga nidra purposely helps in improving sleep.
Yoga and Self Esteem
Yoga enhances self esteem
For those battling low self-esteem; it appears Yoga is your friend. Two studies (Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2018; Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2018) demonstrated positive results in improving one’s self-esteem and perceived body image with the help of Yoga. One recent study, Rizzuto et al., (2021) demonstrates promising evidence that Yoga could help with the accompanying symptoms of obsession, anxiety, and depression in patients with anorexia nervosa.
Yoga and Osteoporosis
Ezrin(2021) article explains that, in Plank Pose, which is an upper pushup position, the arms, trunk, and legs are all engaged, without shortening or lengthening as they would if you were moving through a pushup.Florio et al., (2017) study also found that, in Warrior II, one holds a position with the lead leg bent at both the hip and knee. In these Isometric exercises, especially when performed with the joints in flexion, the study found yoga to increase bone density.
Yoga asana may also help reverse bone loss associated with osteopenia and osteoporosis. This was demonstrated in a study by Lu et al., (2016) which found that just 12 minutes of Yoga per day can significantly improve bone health. Despite the proven positive impacts of Yoga on bone density, there some studies which also revealed mixed results (some not so positive) (Lein et al., 2018).
Yoga, posture and body awareness
A recent review by Aalst et al., (2020)of 34 empirical studies found an emerging pattern;Yoga improved brain functioning in the centers responsible for interoception (recognizing the sensations within your body) and posture.A previous study by Grabara & Szopa (2015) also found that Yoga’s focus on mobility and flexibility can contribute to better alignment by releasing muscles that are often tight, such as the hamstrings, and improving mobility of the spine.
Yoga, and Brain Health
Yoga improves Brain Health
As a mind-body exercise, one review by Aalst et al., (2020) found that practicing Yoga activated areas of the brain responsible for motivation, executive functioning, attention, and neuroplasticity.
Yoga and burn out
Yoga aids in the management of burn out
Heeter et al., (2021)study examined burnout among hospice workers during the COVID-19 pandemic and found that Yoga-based meditation interventions helped significantly reduce the effects of burnout by improving interoceptive awareness.
Market size of Yoga
According to the Economic Times, although Yoga originated from India, the US continues to be the biggest market for Yoga wear with estimated revenues of about $27 billion a year, growing at 20% annually.
The Expert Market research also reported that in 2020, the global Yoga market attained a value of nearly USD 41.05 billion.India is one of the leading exporters of mats and Yoga accessories. The Yoga accessory industry is worth about Rs 500-700 crore.
The training of Yogi is another big market. The Economic Times(2015) reports that, in towns such as Rishikesh and the adjoining village of Tapovan, almost every hotel and resort doubles up as a residential Yoga school. They package Yoga into 200 or 500-hour certificate courses with fees that range from $3,000 to $5,000 (Rs 1.8 lakh-Rs 3 lakh). Local farmers have turned landlords, renting houses to students or rooms for practice and setting up hotels and resorts. In Mysuru for instance, the city boasts of connections with two Yoga greats -Pattabhi Jois and BKS Iyengar. There are 65 Yoga institutes here, the most renowned being Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute. During Yoga season, around 1,000 to 3,000 foreigners visit the city.
Rents in the area have gone up by around 50% in the last couple of years, and single bedroom units can fetch rents between Rs 15,000 and Rs 18,000.
Take Home: Key studies:
Yoga improves general wellness according to studies
In conclusion, two key aspects of Yoga exist: physical activity and meditation techniques which one can focus on.At the end of our extensive review of existing literature, we found the following major studies:
Patel and North (1975): Lancet — “Randomized controlled trial of Yoga and bio feedback in management of hypertension.” This is the first-ever randomized trial on Yoga, and it found that Yoga was more effective than relaxation in reducing high blood pressure.
1985:British Medical Journal— “Yoga for bronchial asthma: a controlled study”. This is the first randomized trial on Yoga for asthma, and it was one of the first to show the effects of Yoga on the inner organs.
1998: JAMA — “Yoga-based intervention for carpal tunnel syndrome.” This was a well-regarded randomized trial that showed the benefits of Yoga for carpal tunnel syndrome compared with wrist splinting and no intervention.
Shermanet al., (2005):Annals of Internal Medicine — “Comparing Yoga, exercise, and a self-care book for chronic low back pain.” This is the most important trial on Yoga for lower back pain and the first really high-quality trial on Yoga. Based on this trial, Yoga has become increasingly recognized as an effective treatment for chronic lower back pain.
Lakkireddy et al., (2013): Journal of the American College of Cardiology — “Effect of Yoga on arrhythmia burden, anxiety, depression, and quality of life in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.” One of the first trials to show that Yoga may have an impact on life-threatening diseases such as atrial fibrillation.
Tracy and Hart (2013): Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research — “Bikram Yoga Training and Physical Fitness in Healthy Young Adults.” This trial found Bikram Yoga can improve strength and flexibility but not aerobic capacity.
2014: Journal of Clinical Oncology— “Randomized, controlled trial of Yoga in women with breast cancer undergoing radiotherapy.” This high-quality trial demonstrated Yoga can have benefits for women being treated for breast cancer.
Bower and Irwin(2015): Brain, Behavior, and Immunity — “Mind-body therapies and control of inflammatory biology.” A review of the evidence on Yoga and other mind-body activities, and their relationship to reducing inflammation.
Prof Raphael Nyarkotey Obu is a Professor of Naturopathic Healthcare and President of the Nyarkotey University College of Holistic Medicine & Technology (NUCHMT)/African Naturopathic Foundation. Dr. Mayukh Pandit isBoard Certified Dental Surgeon/Researcher in Anatomy and faculty member, India. E-mail: collegeofholisticmedicine@gmail.com.
