Shivam Yoga practice can reduce frequency and intensity of climacteric symptoms.

OBJECTIVE

Climacteric symptoms can significantly impair quality of life. Although various non-pharmacological interventions have been explored, the mid-term and long-term effects of yoga remain insufficiently investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of Shivam Yoga practice on climacteric symptoms and hormone levels over 6, 12 and 24 months.

METHOD: In this quasi-experimental controlled trial, 373 women aged 40-65 years were assigned to either a yoga or control group. Symptoms and hormone levels were assessed at baseline, 6, 12 and 24 months.

RESULTS

A total of 182 women completed at least 6 months of follow-up. The yoga group showed a significant reduction in the frequency of moderate-to-severe symptoms (Kupperman Index >19) across all time points. Median Kupperman scores decreased by 12 points (p < 0.001) at 6 months, 12 points (p = 0.008) at 12 months and 16.5 points (p = 0.027) at 24 months. Improvements were observed in hot flashes, insomnia, nervousness, depressive symptoms, fatigue, arthralgia/myalgia, headache, palpitations and tinnitus. After 24 months, the yoga group also showed significantly higher estrogen and total testosterone levels than the control group.

CONCLUSION

Regular Shivam Yoga practice significantly reduced climacteric symptoms over 24 months. These benefits may be mediated by hormonal changes, positioning Shivam Yoga as a promising complementary therapy for menopausal symptoms.