Harnessing pulse oximetry to track immediate effects of Yoga on vitals of a sedentary individual with anxiety and lethargy: An observation

This case study explores the immediate effects of Yoga on a few of the vital signs in a sedentary 44-year-old woman experiencing lethargy, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Using pulse oximetry to monitor peripheral Perfusion Index (PI), Pulse Rate (PR), and Saturation of Peripheral Oxygen (SpO2), the immediate impact of a 30-min/day Yoga session across seven days was evaluated. An 80.92% increase in the mean PI was suggestive of improved blood flow post intervention. The average PR decreased by 3.67%, suggesting a potential relaxation response to the intervention. SpO2 remained consistent at around 97%. While limitations include a short intervention period and follow-up, this study demonstrates the potential of Yoga for immediate physiological benefits in sedentary individuals, warranting further research and larger studies to confirm findings and explore influencing factors. The findings attest to the prospects about the applicability of mind–body interventions such as Yoga to positively influence physiological parameters and self-regulation in individuals struggling with lethargy and depressive state.