Abstract

Background: Healthcare workers (HCWs) form the crux of any healthcare system. They are constantly exposed to high-risk infections and have demanding work conditions, hence being subjected to constant physical and psychological stress. With the recent global situation where millions continued to be affected by the coronavirus, for which no potential cure has been identified, there is an urgent need to strengthen the immune system of HCWs naturally to handle future outbreaks and manage acute crises, avoiding possible “burnout”. Methods: This review gathered literature from PubMed, Scopus, Google scholar, Cochrane Library and EMBASE by using keywords based on MeSH terms related to Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) and its comprehensive health & well-being benefits on various populations. Results: Mind-body therapy (MBT) methods like yoga and meditation techniques, are known to have beneficial effects in enhancing immunity and thus preventing various diseases. One of the most cost-effective and self-empowering methods is the Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY). SKY is a rhythmic breathing technique that is scientifically effective in managing depression, anxiety, and stress, improving sleep and overall well-being, reducing free radicals, boosting the immune system, improving lung capacity, enhancing brain wave activity and much more. A recent pilot study evaluated the impact of SKY on the well-being of HCWs during the COVID-19 pandemic and suggested a positive effect on reducing stress and improving resilience. Conclusion: This review highlights the immense potential of SKYin generating a long-lasting impact to promote health, well-being and prevent diseases in populations. However, to strengthen the evidence, further large scale randomized controlled trials are warranted to establish its effectiveness in the preventionof a burnout among HCW’s in future challenging situations such as the pandemic.

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