Presentation: “Pranayam and meditation as mental health treatment – research, policy, practice”, Alleson Reyna.
Conference: Organised by Department of Yogic Science, Gurukula Kangri (Deemed to be University), Haridwar, India. Sponsored by Ministry of AYUSH. (‘International Conference on Indian Traditional Yoga System Theory and Practice’ 24 to 26 May 2022, Agenda).
There are ethical, legal and practical implications of promoting pranayam breathwork and meditation as mental ill health treatments. Collaborative, international and interdisciplinary approaches are described that support practitioners-in-distress. Mental health benefits of breathwork and meditation are well known, widely promoted and attract a wide range of learners looking to enhance their health and wellbeing also to self manage mental ill health symptoms. Here lesser known published research studies are summarised that describe adverse mental health effects in studies of traditional and modern approaches. Theories which may explain both the observed health benefits and adverse effects are described. Guidance developed by Clinical Psychiatrists to support practitioner-in-distress, is similar to principles described within traditional Buddhism and Ayurveda, also modern ‘trauma-informed’ approaches promoting the modification of practices according to the individual’s needs. The promotion and the practice of pranayam and meditation as mental ill health treatment, is subject to national and international medical ethical codes of conduct and a range of legal consumer protection regulations.
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