Effect of Select Yogasanas, Pranayama and Meditation On Biochemical, Physiological and ... PDF

EFFECT OF SELECT YOGASANAS, PRANAYAMA AND MEDITATION
ON BIOCHEMICAL, PHYSIOLOGICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL

VARIABLES OF MALE STUDENTS
A THESIS
Submitted to the Pondicherry University for the
partial – fulfillment of the requirement
for the degree of
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
IN
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
By
A. JAMES
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND SPORTS

PONDICHERRY UNIVERSITY
PUDUCHERRY 605 014
INDIA
MAY 2009
Dr. D. SAKTHIGNANAVEL, M. A., M. P. Ed., M.Phil., Ph. D.,
Reader,
Department of Physical Education and Sports,
Pondicherry University,
Puducherry – 605 014.
CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the dissertation entitled, “EFFECT OF SELECT
YOGASANAS, PRANAYAMA AND MEDITATION ON BIOCHEMICAL,
PHYSIOLOGICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL VARIABLES OF MALE
STUDENTS”, submitted for the award of Ph.D., Degree in physical education at
Pondicherry University, is a record of independent research work done by the candidate
Mr. A. JAMES, Lecturer in Physical Education, Pope John Paul II College of Education,
Puducherry, during the period of his study at this university under my supervision and
guidance and that the dissertation has not previously formed the basis for the award of any
degree, diploma, associateship, fellowship or any other similar title.
Place: Puducherry (D. SAKTHIGNANAVEL)

Date : Guide
(ii)
Mr. A. JAMES
Ph.D. Scholar,
Department of Physical Education and Sports,
Pondicherry University,
Puducherry – 605 014.
DECLARATION
I Hereby declare that the thesis entitled, ”Effect of Select Yogasanas, Pranayama,
and Meditation on Biochemical, Physiological and Psychological Variables of College Male
Students” being submitted to the Pondicherry University, in partial fulfillment of the
requirement for the award of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Physical Education in
the Department of Physical Education and Sports, Pondicherry University, is a bonafide
work done by me under the guidance of Dr. D. SAKHIGNANAVEL, Reader, Department
of Physical Education and Sports, Pondicherry University and that it has not previously
formed on the basis for the award of any Degree, Diploma, Associateship, Fellowship or
any other similar title of any candidate of any university or institution.
Place : Puducherry (A. JAMES)

Date :
(iii)
Dedicated
To
The Departed Souls of My Brothers
Rayappan, Chinappan
And
Irudayadoss
(iv)
CURRICULUM VITA
Name of the Author : A. JAMES
Place of Birth : Kodungal

Tirukkoilur Taluk,
Villupuram District
Tamil Nadu - 605 755
INDIA
Date of Birth
: 13.04.1968
School and College Attended
St. Xavier’s High School, Mugaiyur.
St. Dominic Savio Hr.Sec. School, Chetpet.
Tagore Arts College, Puducherry.
Y.M.C.A. College of Physical Education, Chennai.
Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai.
Degrees Awarded
Bachelor of Arts, 1991, Pondicherry University, Puducherry.
Bachelor of Physical Education, 1993, University of Madras, Chennai.
Master of Physical Education, 1994, Madurai Kamaraj

University, Madurai.
Diploma in Scientific Yoga and Meditation , 1994,

Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai.
Master of Philosophy in Physical Education, 2000, Annamalai

University, Annamalai Nagar.
(v)
CURRICULUM VITA (Continued)
Awards and Honours
Awarded the ‘C’ Certificate, in NCC for the year 1987 by the Ministry of Defence,
Government of India.
Secured First Place in 5000Mts and 10000Mts run in Inter Collegiate Athletic Meet
Organized by the Pondicherry University held at Tagore Arts College in Puducherry, 1988-
89.
Represented the Pondicherry University in the South-Zone Inter University Basket Ball
tournament held at Chennai 1989-90.
Represented the Pondicherry University in the South-Zone Inter University Foot Ball
tournament held at Coimbatore, 1989-90.
Secured First Place in 5000Mts and 10000Mts run in Inter Collegiate Athletic Meet
organized by the Pondicherry University held at Dr. S.R.K. Govt. Arts College in Yanam,
1989-90.
Secured Seventh Place in Nehru Centenary Marathon Race in 1989-90 organised by the
Pondicherry State Sports Council.
Participated in inter-collegiate Table Tennis tournament organized by the University of

Madras held at Loyola College in Chennai, 1992-93.
Professional Experience
Served as Physical Education Teacher in Petit Seminaire Higher Secondary School,

Puducherry from 04.06.94 to 09.07.97.
Serving as Lecturer in Physical Education in Pope John Paul II College of Education,

Puducherry, since 10.07.97.
(vi)
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The investigator expresses his sincere and heart felt thanks to his most honoured
and learned guide Dr. D. SAKTHIGNANAVEL, Reader, Department of Physical
Education and Sports, Pondicherry University, for helping me to locate and select the
scientific topic and his valuable guidance, and encouragement for the successful
completion of this study.
The researcher expresses his sincere thanks to Dr. P. K. SUBRAMANIAM, Head

of the Department of Physical Education and Sports, Pondicherry University, and he is
also a Doctoral Committee Member of my research, who has enthusiastically accepted to
help me to work on this research study and extended timely help and encouragement
throughout the study.
The investigator wishes to place on record his sincere gratitude to Rev. Fr. P.
PAUL RAJ KUMAR, Principal & Secretary, Pope John Paul II College of Education,
and the former principal & Secretary Rev. Fr. J. PAUL for his benevolent attitude and
co-operation in granting permission for the collection of data from the students and their
moral support to complete this experimental study successfully.
The investigator expresses his sincere and whole hearted thanks to Dr. MADAN
MOHAN TRAKROO, Professor and Head, Dr. GIRWAR SINGH GAUR Associate
Professor of Physiology, Dr. D. AMUDHARAJ, Dr. S. KARTHIK, Dr. RAJA JEYA
KUMAR, Junior Residents, Miss. M. TAMILARASI, Lab Technician of the
Department of Physiology all from the Jawaharlal Institute of Post Graduate Medical
Education and Research (JIPMER) Puducherry for providing the necessary experimental
instruments and successful completion of my research study.
(vii)
The researcher expresses his deep sense of indebtedness to Dr. M. G. SRIDHAR
Professor and Head, Mr. S. KANDASAMY, Scientist, Mr. N. SELVARAJ and
Mr. S. DURAIRAJ, Ph.D., Scholars Department of Biochemistry, (JIPMER)
Puducherry for helping me to carry out the laboratory work meticulously to have the
correct data and thus helping me to complete the scientific study successfully.
My sincere thanks goes to Dr. CLEMENT SAGAYARADJA LOURDES,

Reader, Department of English, Pondicherry University, and he is also a Doctoral
Committee Member of my research, for his suggestions and encouragement for the
successful completion of this study.
The researcher expresses his sincere thanks to Mr. D. MANICKAM, senior Grade
Lecturer in English, Pope John Paul II College of Education for his invaluable guidance
and language correction work throughout my research work.
The researcher’s deep sense of indebtedness is due to all the Physical Education
personals Dr. S. SANGARAN, Director of Physical Education, Tagore Arts College,
Mrs. .NISHA, Yoga Trainer and Mr. H. RAVIKUMAR, Lecturer in physical Education,
K.K.Govt. Hr. Sec. School Puducherry for their inspiration help and at various stages of
the work.
The investigator’s deep sense of gratitude to Dr. SULTANA, Reader,

Dr. G. VASANTHI, Selection Grade, Dr. K. CHANDRASEKARAN, Sports Officer and
also other staff members of the Department of Physical Education and Sports,
Pondicherry University, for their valuable suggestions and timely help for the completion
of this research.
(viii)
The investigator expresses his deep sense of indebtedness to all the selected students
of Pope John Paul II College of Education, Puducherry for having shared their valuable
time and active participation and co-operation as the subjects.
The researcher expresses his indebtedness and gratitude to his parents, brothers,
and his sister for their invaluable moral support and encouragement throughout this
research process.
My profound gratitude goes to my better half Mrs. JECINTHA JAMES, for her
selfless sacrifices and moral support throughout my research career. A special mention to
my beloved children J. IRENE and J. MALCOLM ANTONY for having spared their
father to complete the research work successfully.
Once again I would like to extend my sincere thanks and gratitude to all those who
directly or indirectly helped me in completion of this research work.
Lastly I bow my head before God Almighty for the bountiful blessings He has
showered on me, without whose Grace this work, would not have been materialized.
A. JAMES
(ix)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
LIST OF TABLES xiii

LIST OF FIGURES xv
Chapter
I INTRODUCTION 1
Statement of the Problem 21

Hypotheses 22
Delimitations 22
Limitations 24
Definition and Explanation of the Terms 24
Significance of the Study 29
II REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE 35
III METHODOLOGY 68
Selection of Subjects 68
Experimental Design and Procedure 68
Selection of Variables 69
Selection of Tests 70
Instrument Reliability, Orientation of Subjects 72
Calibration of Instrument 72
Collection of Blood Samples 72
Estimation of Biochemical Variables 73
Test Administration of Physiological Variables 78
Test Administration of Psychological Variables 85
Administration of Questionnaire 87
Training Program 88
Collection of Data 91
Statistical Technique 91
(x)
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Chapter Page
IV ANALYSIS OF THE DATA AND RESULTS OF THE STUDY 93
Analysis of Data 93
Analysis of Biochemical Variables 93
Analysis of Physiological Variables 112
Analysis of Psychological Variables 142
Discussion on Findings 154
Discussion on Hypotheses 157
V SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 162
Summary 162
Conclusions 163
Recommendations 165
BIBLIOGRAPHY 167
Books 167
Journals 170
Unpublished Thesis and Project 176
Internet and News Papers 177
(xi)
APPENDICES 178
I Name, Age, Height and Weight of the Subjects of the 178
Present Investigation of Control Group and
Experimental Group
II Consent Form from the Subjects for their Voluntary 179
Participation in the Present Investigation
III Pre Test and Post Test Score of the Biochemical 180
Variables of Control Group and Experimental Group
(xii)
TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued)
APPENDICES Page
IV Pre Test and Post Test Score of Physiological Variables 182

of the Control Group and Experimental Group
V Pre Test and Post Test Score of the Psychological 184

Variables of the Control Group and Experimental
Group
VI Personal Data for the Psychological Questionnaire 186
VII Trier Personality Inventory for the Mental Health 187
VIII Self-Concept Scale 189
IX Eysenck Personality Inventory 193
X Schedule for the Twelve weeks of Yogasanas, 196

Pranayama and Meditation Training Programme
(xiii)
LIST OF TABLES
Table Title Page
I Test for Biochemical, Psychological and Psychological 71

Variables
II Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 94
Blood Glucose of Control Group and Experimental
Group
III Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 97
Total Cholesterol of Control Group and Experimental
Group
IV Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 100
Triglycerides of Control Group and Experimental Group
V Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 103
High Density Lipoprotein of Control Group and
Experimental Group
VI Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 106
Low Density Lipoprotein of Control Group and
Experimental Group
VII Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 109
Very Low Density Lipoprotein of Control Group and
Experimental Group
(xiv)
VIII Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 112
Forced Vital Capacity of Control Group and Experimental
Group
IX Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 115
Forced Expiratory Volume in First Second of Control
Group and Experimental Group
X Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 118
Peak Expiratory Flow Rate of Control Group and
Experimental Group
XI Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 121
Systolic Blood Pressure of Control Group and
Experimental Group
XII Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 124
Diastolic Blood Pressure of Control Group and
Experimental Group
LIST OF TABLES (Continued)
Table Title Page
XIII Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 127
Pulse Rate of Control Group and Experimental Group
XIV Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 130
Rate Pressure Product of Control Group and
Experimental Group
XV Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 133
Maximum Expiratory Pressure of Control Group and
Experimental Group
XVI Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 136
Maximum Inspiratory Pressure of Control Group and
Experimental Group
(xv)
XVII Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 139
Breadth Holding Time of Control Group and
Experimental Group
XVIII Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 142
Mental Health of Control Group and Experimental Group
XIX Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 145
Self-Concept of Control Group and Experimental Group
XX - A Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 148
Personality Neurosis of Control Group and Experimental
Group
XX - B Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on 151
Personality Extrovert of Control Group and Experimental
Group
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure Title Page
I General Structure of Lipoprotein 13
II Transport Cholesterol and Lipoprotein between Tissues 16
(xvi)
III Analyzing of Biochemical Variables in Serum by using 78
Computer Auto analyzer, RANDOX – IMOLA, Made in
United Kingdom - 2008
IV Recording of Physiological Variables by using 79

Computerized Pulmonary Function Tests (Spirometer)
Made in England - 2004
V Recording of Vital Capacity by using Computerized 80

Pulmonary Spirometer
VI The Investigator is checking the Blood pressure, both the 81

Systolic and Diastolic pressure of the Subject.
VII Recording of Respiratory pressure by using Mercury 83

Manometer (Maximum Expiratory pressure and
Maximum Inspiratory Pressure)
VIII Recording of Breath Holding Time by using a Stop 84

Watch and a Nose Clip
IX The subject is performing the Halasana 88
X The subject is performing the Mayurasana 89
XI The subject is performing the Nadi Sodhana Pranayama 89
XII The subject is performing the Bhramari Pranayama 90
XIII The subject is performing the AUM Meditation 90
XIV Graphical Representation on Blood Glucose of Pre Test, 96

Post Test and Adjusted Post Test Mean of Control Group
and Experimental Group
XV Graphical Representation on Total Cholesterol of Pre 99
Test, Post Test and Adjusted Post Test Mean of Control
LIST OF FIGURES (Continued)
(xvii)
Figure Title Page
XVI Graphical Representation on Triglycerides of Pre Test, 102

XVII Graphical Representation on High Density Lipoprotein of 105
Pre Test, Post Test and Adjusted Post Test Mean of
Control Group and Experimental Group
XVIII Graphical Representation on Low Density Lipoprotein of 108
XIX Graphical Representation on Very Low Density 111
Lipoprotein of Pre Test, Post Test and Adjusted Post Test
Mean of Control Group and Experimental Group
XX Graphical Representation on Forced Vital Capacity of Pre
Test, Post Test and Adjusted Post Test Mean of Control 114
XXI Graphical Representation on Forced Expiratory Volume 117

in First Second (FEV1) of Pre Test, Post Test and
Adjusted Post Test Mean of Control Group and
Experimental Group
XXII Graphical Representation on Peak Expiratory Flow Rate 120
of Pre Test, Post Test and Adjusted Post Test Mean of
XXIII Graphical Representation on Systolic Blood Pressure of 123
XXIV Graphical Representation on Diastolic Blood Pressure of 126
XXV Graphical Representation on Pulse Rate of Pre Test, Post 129
Test and Adjusted Post Test Mean of Control Group and
Experimental Group
(xviii)
XXVI Graphical Representation on Rate Pressure Product of Pre 132
LIST OF FIGURES (Continued)

Figure Title Page
XXVII Graphical Representation on Maximum Expiratory 135

Pressure of Pre Test, Post Test and Adjusted Post Test
XXVIII Graphical Representation on Maximum Inspiratory 138
Pressure of Pre Test, Post Test and Adjusted Post Test
XXIX Graphical Representation on Breadth Holding Time of 141
XXX Graphical Representation on Mental Health of Pre Test, 144
XXXI Graphical Representation on Self-Concept of Pre Test, 147
XXXII - A Graphical Representation on Personality-Neurosis of Pre 150
XXXII - B Graphical Representation on Personality-Extrovert of Pre 153
(xix)
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Chapter Page
IV ANALYSIS OF THE DATA AND RESULTS OF THE STUDY 93
Analysis of Data 93
Analysis of Biochemical Variables 93
Analysis of Physiological Variables 112
Analysis of Psychological Variables 142
Discussion on Findings 154
Discussion on Hypotheses 157
V SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 161
Summary 161
Conclusions 162
Recommendations 164
BIBLIOGRAPHY 166
Books 166
Journals 169
Unpublished Thesis and Project 175
Internet and News Papers 176
APPENDICES 177
I Name, Age, Height and Weight of the Subjects of

the Present Investigation of Control Group and 177
Experimental Group.
II Consent Form from the Subjects for their Voluntary

Participation in the Present Investigation 178
III Pre Test and Post Test Score of the Biochemical

Variables of Control Group and Experimental Group 179
(xi)
Chapter I
INTRODUCTION
Yoga is a systematic practice for the realization of higher perceptions. It is the

science of life and an ideal way of living, providing rhythm to the body, melody to the
mind, harmony to the soul and thereby symphony to life. In short, Yoga is a way to
achieve total health, peace, bliss and wisdom. Physical, mental and spiritual aspects of
yoga help to make one’s life purposeful, useful and noble. Thus Yoga is an art,
science and philosophy, which influence the life of man at each level. Therefore, the
effect of yoga must be felt in every movement of our day- to- day lives.
Yoga is an ancient Indian science which teaches man how to live in unity
within himself and with those around him. It is recognized as one of the most
important and valuable heritages of India. More than 2000 years ago our ancestors
developed it to bind the body, mind and spirit, as a harmonious whole. It has been
growing in popularity with unbelievable rapidity over the years. Today the whole
world is looking towards yoga for answers to the various problems the modern man is
facing.
Yoga is a way of life. It is an integrated system of education for the body,

mind and inner spirit. This art of right living was perfected and practiced in India
thousands of years ago but, as yoga deals with universal truths, its teachings are valid
today as they were in the ancient times. Yoga is a practical aid, does not belong to
one religion and its techniques could be practiced by the Buddhists, Jews, Christians,
Muslims, Hindus and the Atheists alike. Yoga is union with all1. It brings peace to
the human beings by physical practices with or without a toner on spiritualism.
As we live in the age of modern science and technology, our lifestyle has
become very fast. It is also becoming very hard and difficult to live a natural and
normal life because of the changing scenario of the world. The very air is becoming
unfit for human consumption. Our cities are growing noisier, dirtier and congested.
All these do create tension. The mind is always under strain due to various social
evils. When we are under stress, our digestion is not proper and we may suffer from
2
some fairly serious ailments like Asthma and Spondilytis etc., and yoga comes to our
rescue at this juncture.
In the treatment of almost all the chronic disorders and ailments, yoga can
assist in a big way, when practiced along with other streams of treatment. However it
is not a panacea for all health problems. It has its own limitations. At the same time, it
cannot cure the acute infective disorders of traumas. Obviously it is not possible to
carry out surgical operations with its help. But it can definitely help in the post
operational therapy, under able guidance2.
The key to the whole problem is “self help”. First of all, everyday one should
learn how to release and remain released. Learn how to breath properly, reduce
weight if need be, and take up walking regularly as an exercise. We cannot totally
avoid being ill and we have our “off days” once in a while, but through yoga we can
become resilient. We can acquire the energy to overcome the pressures and survive in
the stressful conditions. Therefore, yoga teaches us how to be one with the world by
being one with ourselves.
The Aim of Yoga
The aim of yoga is to attain perfection of the intellect, both of the head and the
heart, so that, the artist becomes devoted, true and pure. This demands an almost total
relinquishment of interest in other activities of life except the chosen path. The mind
is fluid and runs after sensual pleasures. Art demands total undivided focal attention.
Hence Patanjali explains that the mind must be controlled and then submitted to serve
the artistic nature of yoga to its highest potency. Yoga or any art requires acute
sharpness of intellect and alert organs of perception. In yoga there is no competition
but it requires freedom to think and reconstruct with a desire to perform better. Then
it brings to the yogi the most exalted enlightenment. From now on, wherever the yogi
is and whatever he does, his thoughts are rooted in spiritual communion, which takes
him to the Zenith of spiritual life3.
The Indian classical thought holds salvation as the ultimate objective of

human endeavor. This ideal of achieving salvation (moksha) can be attained by the
four different ways viz. Karma yoga, Bhakti yoga, Raja yoga and Gyana yoga etc.
3
We shall in the time allotted briefly consider ‘Raja yoga’ or ‘Astanga yoga’ as
propounded by Maharishi Patanjali and Swami Vivekananda.
Meaning and Concept of Yoga
The word “Yoga” is derived from the Sanskrit root “Yuj” which means union,
joining, harnessing, contact, or connection. It is union between the individual self and
the universal self. It is the fusion of a healthy body with a disciplined mind for the
purpose of spiritual development. Yoga is also blissful contact with the supreme
element, higher than the highest of the known elements. It is the harnessing of one’s
inherent inner power, as well as the wider natural forces from which one has emerged.
Yoga is an inseparable part of the Indian life and culture. It has come down to us
from antiquity with an unbroken tradition.
Integration encompasses putting together and controlling the same judiciously.

This is consistent with the definition of Yoga in “Bhagavad Gita” which says,
“Smatvameva Yoga Uchyate” that is equanimity is called Yoga. It means that yoga
remains equipoised in success and failure, gain and loss, victory and defect etc. The
term ‘Samatva’ may also be translated as equilibrium, which leads to harmonious
development of the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of human personality.
Equanimity and equilibrium are thus the essential traits of Yoga. They help in the
skilful performance of an action.
Yoga as an Art
Yoga is an art in all its aspects, from the most practical to the highest. It is a
spiritual art, in the sense that it transforms the seer and brings him into contact with
his inner soul. It is a fine art, since it is aesthetic, expressive, visual art, since the body
is made to form geometrical designs, lines architectural shapes and the like which are
beautiful to behold. It is essentially a useful art for the doer and is presented as a
performing art for viewer.
The art of yoga is creative, rhythmic in practice and individualistic in nature. It

is ennobling. It is the purest of knowledge where wisdom begins and investigates into
the nature as being as love is experienced by the lover and the beloved.
4
As living is an art, yogic enhances the quality of one’s life. Hence it is an art.
It improves one’s thought process and enables one to face life’s difficult situations
happily and with equanimity. It teaches one to strive to achieve a goal in life, to
cultivate friendliness, concentration, piety, contentment, joy and more essentially to
discard what is not essential to life and to cultivate good habits to lead a righteous life.
Yoga is disciplined action to achieve and attain final emancipation4.
Yoga as a Science
Yoga is considered as a full fledged science. The science of yoga consists of

acquiring knowledge through observation and experiment. It is a science, which deals
with the body and mind controlling the body through the practice of Yoga to achieve
the rhythm of mind. The health and strength of the body and the mind are acquired,
only when a state of equilibrium is attained whereby the body and the mind are
balanced. Like all other arts, Yoga is also a science as well as a philosophy too. As
science is concerned with analyses Yoga too is bent on analysis.
Yoga analyses the turbulent mind and shows the ways and means of reaching
the ultimate goal of freedom. As any other science, yoga too conveys truth. On a
practical level, yoga keeps the body healthy the mind quite and pure, and self in
beatitude. It is therefore a darsana. The practical aspect of yoga darsana conveys the
artistic aspect of Yoga with its precision and beauty5.
The science of yoga works on physical, mental, emotional, psychic and

spiritual aspects of a person, when imbalance is experienced at this level, the organs,
muscles and nerves no longer function in harmony, rather they act in opposition to
one another. Therefore, yoga aims at bringing the different bodily functions into
perfect co-ordination so that they work for the good at the whole body. Therefore
yoga develops the personality of an individual mentally, morally, spiritually and
intellectually.
The Eight Stages of Raja Yoga
By observing their own thoughts, scientifically and objectively, the ancient

yogis studied the many obstacles in bringing the mind under conscious control. Sage
5
Patanjali who lived in 320 A.D was a great saint of his time and was reverently called
as ‘Patanjali Maharishi’. His greatest contribution to the science and philosophy of
yoga is rendered in the form of patanjali yoga sutras. His main scheme of yoga is
popularly known as Raja yoga or Ashtanga yoga, a text that describes the inner
workings of the mind, and also provides an eight stepped (ashtanga) blueprint for
controlling the restless mind and enjoying lasting peace. The eight stepped blueprint
or stages are 1.Yama – Social Discipline, 2. Niyama – Personal Discipline, 3.Asanas –
Postures, 4 Pranayama – Breath control, 5. Prathyahara – Withdrawal of senses,
6.Dharana – Concentration, 7.Dhyana – Meditation, 8.Samadhi – Union.
If these eight stages are practiced and followed in life, virtues like morality,
(morally sound conduct) and good character would develop in man. Besides, there
would be an all round progress in human life- physical, intellectual and spiritual and
man would attain physical fitness and mental equanimity6 .
Keeping in view of the significance and relevance of yoga in one’s life, the
researcher has made an attempt to experiment it in practical life so as to study and
analyze its effects concretely.
ASANAS
Asana is derived from the verb root “as” which means “to sit”, “to remain”,
etc., According to Patanjali, Asana is defined as, “SITHRAM SUKHAM ASANAM”-
PYS 11:46 meaning, that position which is comfortable and steady. Therefore asana
means, a state of being in which one can remain physically and mentally steady, calm,
quite and comfortable.
Yogasanas are not to design muscles, but rather to bring the whole body to the
peak of physical perfection and top efficiency by a series of carefully designed
position. All the asanas, which have an effect on the diaphragm, help to massage the
heart and at the same time it also massages the abdominal organs. They are not as
exercise for reducing or increasing weight. By virtue of their effect on the endocrine
system which regulates thet entire system, they help to keep the body in proper shape
and to increase the power of resistance. They have a curative, recuperative and
preventive effect because they are based on deep breathing which can work wonders.
6
Asanas are postures, which contribute to stability and sense of well-being.
The stability here refers not merely of the posture but of the mind and the body as a
whole. There were originally 84, 00,000 asanas representing 84,00,000 incarnations.
Classification of Asanas
Asana can be classified into three major groups:
Cultural asana: This group includes maximum number of asanas, which are meant
for re-conditioning of the body and mind so as to bring stability, peace and a sense of
well being.
Relaxative asana: Shavasana and makarasana are two important relaxative asanas,
which bring about relaxation of the body and mind. They eliminate the physical as
well as mental tensions.
Meditative asanas: These asanas provide a comfortable and stable sitting position of
the body to make the mind more steady for the process of meditation7.
Physiological Significance of Cultural Asanas
 To re-condition various joints, the muscles around and their tendons as well as
the reflex mechanisms are put in order to offer a stable and comfortable
posture for higher practices like pranayama, dhyana, etc.,
 It also helps maintain an optimum muscle tone in the body.
 To establish physiological balance among various systems for their

harmonious function.
 Provides the best organic vigour to the individual.
 In most of the asanas, the abdominal area is influenced and undergoes pressure
changes which are reflected on the visceral organs like stomach, colon, urinary
bladder, lungs etc.,
7
Physiological Significance of Relaxative Asana
 Horizontal and relaxed position of the body on the ground facilitates efficient
and easy blood circulation.
 Blood pressure and heart rate are reduced.
 Relieves muscular tension as well as engages the mind properly to such a form
where new simulations are not expected.
 Enables established balance in all the functions of the body.
Physiological Significance of Meditative Asana
 The visceroceptors and proprioceptors in the coccygeal, sacral and lumbar are
stimulated due to special arrangement of the hip joints stretching of pelvic
region.
 The static stretching and maintained rotation of the knee joints squeeze the
blood vessels and press the capsule. When the meditative asana is released the
fresh blood supply improves its conditions. A regular practitioner will never
experience pain in the knee joints.
 The meditative asana provides steady, stable and comfortable sitting position
and helps in controlling and concentrating the mind for meditation.
Pranayama
Pranayama is an exact science. It is the regulation of breath or control of

prana which is the stoppage of inhalation and exhalation, that follows after securing
that steadiness of posture or seat, Asana. As the Bible states, “Lord God formed man
of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man
became a living being.”- Gen 2:7.
The Sanskrit word prana means ‘vital force’ or ‘cosmic energy’. It also
signifies ‘life’ or ‘breath’, Ayama means the control of the prana. Hence pranayama
means control of the vital force by concentration and regulated breathing. It is
8
physical, mental, spiritual and cosmic energy. All forms of energy are prana. Prana
is usually translated as breath; which moves in the thoracic region absorbing vital
energy; yet, this is the only one of its many manifestations in the body. (Ayama
means control). So pranayama is the science of breath control. The movements of
the thoracic organs include vertical ascension, horizontal expansion and a
circumferential movement.
The Varieties of Pranayama
Svatmaram, the author of Hathapradipika mentions eight varieties of

pranayama not on the basis of nature of kumbhaka but on the basis of nature of
inhalation and exhalation, which are gone through before and after kumbhaka. They
are : 1) Suryabhedana, 2) Ujjayi, 3) Sitkari, 4) Sitali, 5) Bhastrika, 6) Bhramari, 7)
Murchha, 8) Plavini.
The inspiration, retention and expiration are to be gone through in pranayama

in a controlled manner, each phase lasting for several seconds. These temporal
factors (i.c) Prolongation of a particular phase for a considerable length of time is of
primary importance not only in pranayama but also in other yogic practice.
Physiology of Pranayama
It has been proved beyond doubt that pranayama is a very important means
for preventing and curing many ailments. Pranayama brings about several
physiological changes in the body.
The science of pranayama teaches us how to reduce the respiratory and heart
rate, while increasing the quantum of oxygen drawn in and decreasing the outflow of
breath. This can be as minimal as two or three cycles per minute. When the
respiratory rate is thus lowered, the metabolic rate of the body also reduces. The body
is brought to a state of temporary hibernation. All the cells are rested, and relaxation
is ensued. The sympathetic overdrive is reduced, with consequent energy
conservation. In pranayama, the mind is kept attentive so that the rhythm of breathing
is regulated. The frontal brain, which is the seat of intellectual activity, is made quiet.
Complete neuro – physiological relaxation occurs.
9
Pranayama can be used for therapy. The problem of low and high blood
pressure, allergic rhinitis, vasomotor rhinitis, sinusitis, recurrent infections of the
upper respiratory tract, chronic headaches, migraine, peptic ulcers, anxiety states, can
all be treated by the many kinds of pranayama, without the need for asanas.
Meditation
Meditation is the act of focusing one’s thoughts or engaging in self – reflection

or contemplation. Some people believe that, through deep meditation, one can
influence or control physical and psychological functioning and the course of illness8.
Meditation is a state of consciousness that can be understood only on a direct,

intuitive level. Ordinary experiences are limited by time, space, and the laws of
causality, but the meditative state transcends all boundaries. While you meditate, past
and future cease to exist. There is only the consciousness of I AM in the infinite,
eternal, Now9.
By constant meditation, one slowly gains knowledge of the self, and gets freed
from bondages, not merely the external ones, but in one’s inner consciousness. The
ultimate goal of life is salvation and this, the scriptures say, is attained through
knowledge of the ultimate truth of the self and its place in the cosmic self, gained
through meditation10.
“Meditation is the royal road to the attainment of freedom a mysterious ladder

that reached from earth to heaven, darkness to light, Mortality to Immortality”11.
Meditation is a process that anyone can use to calm oneself, cope with stress,
and, for those with spiritual inclinations, feel as one with God or the universe.
Meditation can be practiced individually or in groups and is easy to learn. It requires
no change in belief system and is compatible with most religious practices12.
Regularity is the key
For effective practice of meditation, regularity of time, place, and practice are
most important, as they condition the mind to focus its energies. The mind seems to
be particularly active. When you try to concentrate, but just as any habit can be
10
established through constant practice, so the mind can be conditioned to focus more
quickly once regularity is established13.
The tools of meditation are responsible for creating an atmosphere where the
mind can get centered into ones own inner self. Then the mind gets so much at peace
that we can reach the stage between sleep and waking. This is the Alfa state. Even
when one is hypnotizing a person, he/she uses the Silva mind control method; one
actually brings the mind to this state itself, the only difference being that in the other
methods some inputs are given to the mind while in meditation, the divine energies
are allowed to put the inputs.
Physical Benefits
Meditation provides a lasting spiritual rest, which must be experienced and to

be understood. Once you can meditate; the time you normally devote to sleep can
gradually be reduced to as little as three hours per night, and you will still feel more
rested and peaceful than before. By reducing heart rate and consumption of oxygen,
meditation greatly reduces stress levels. It seems that each part of the body, even
down to the individual cells, is taught to relax and rejuvenate. Meditation helps to
prolong the body’s period of growth and cell production, and reduces the decaying
process. After the age of 35, our brain cells die off at a rate of 1000,000 per day, and
they are not replaced, but meditation can reduce this decline, as it changes the
vibratory make – up of both the body and mind. In this way, meditation can prevent
or minimize senility.
Mental Benefits
We each possess vast inner resources of power and knowledge much of it

brought with us from past lives. In meditation, new patterns of thinking come to the
surface and develop as we experience a new view of the universe, a vision of unity,
happiness, harmony, and inner peace. Negative tendencies vanish, and the mind
becomes steady. Meditation brings freedom from fear of death, which is seen a
doorway to a new name and form. People who meditate regularly land to develop
magnetic and dynamic personalities, cheerfulness, powerful speech, lustrous eyes,
physical health, and boundless energy. Others draw strength from such people and
11
feel elevated in their presence. Meditation is only possible when all mental
modifications (thought waves) have been stilled, and with this comes mental peace14.
Role of Silence in Meditation
Meditation involves silence. Silence is absence of words and sounds that appear
internally or externally. While referring about silence, we generally think of silence
around us. But in meditation, the silence that is more important is the silence within.
This is not to be forced. It has to be achieved by giving total freedom to the mind.
The most important of this is silence. God is friend of silence. We need to find God,
but we cannot find Him in noise, in excitement. See how nature, the trees, the flowers,
the grass grow in deep silence. See how the stars, the moon, and the sun move in
silence. The more we receive in our silent prayer, the more we can give in our active
life. Silence gives us a new way of looking at everything15.
Biochemistry of Blood Glucose and Lipoproteins
Blood Glucose
Carbohydrate metabolism provides glucose, the primary energy source for

human body. After ingestion of carbohydrates and absorption of glucose, blood
glucose level raises. The concentration of glucose is controlled by the action of
several hormones. Glucose can be synthesised denovo or stored in tissue as glycogen.
The concentration of glucose in the blood is regulated by a complex interplay of
multiple pathways, modulated by a number of hormones. Insulin is a hormone that
decreases the blood glucose and glucagons increase it. The main concern of glucose is
related with the disease diabetes mellitus, which is a group of metabolic disorders of
carbohydrate metabolism in which glucose is under utilized producing hyperglycemia
which produces many complications in diabetic patients. Elevation of fasting glucose
over 126 mg/dl more than one occasion is diagnostic of diabetes mellitus16.
Fat Transport
Fat absorbed from the diet and lipids synthesized by the liver and adipose
tissue must be transported between the various tissues and organs for utilization and
storage. Since lipids are insoluble in water, the problem of transport of them in the
12
aqueous blood plasma is solved by associating nonpolar lipids (triacylglycerol and
cholesteryl esters) with amphipathic lipids (phospholipids and cholesterol) and
proteins to make water miscible. During meals in the human, excess calories are
ingested in the feeding cycle, followed by a period of negative caloric balance when
the organism draws upon its carbohydrate and fat stores. Lipoproteins mediate this
cycle by transporting lipids from the intestines as chylomicrons and from the liver as
very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) to most tissues for oxidation and to adipose
tissue for storage. Lipid is mobilized from adipose tissue as free fatty acids (FFA)
attached to serum albumin. Abnormalities of lipoprotein metabolism cause various
hypo- or hyperlipoproteinemias. The most common of these is diabetes mellitus. Most
other pathologic conditions affecting lipid transport are due primarily to inherited
defects, some of which cause hypercholesterolemia, and premature atherosclerosis.
Obesity is a risk factor for increased mortality, hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus,
hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, and various endocrine dysfunctions.
Lipids are Transported in the Plasma as Lipoproteins
Plasma lipids consist of triacylglycerols (16%), phospholipids (30%),

cholesterol (14%), and cholesteryl esters (36%) and a much smaller fraction of
unesterified long-chain fatty acids (free fatty acids) (4%). This latter fraction, the free
fatty acids (FFA), is metabolically the most active of the plasma lipids. Because fat is
less dense than water, the density of a lipoprotein decreases as the proportion of lipid
to protein increases (Table 25–1). In addition to FFA, four major groups of
lipoproteins have been identified that are important physiologically and in clinical
diagnosis. These are (1) chylomicrons, derived from intestinal absorption of
triacylglycerol and other lipids; (2) very low density lipoproteins (VLDL), derived
from the liver for the export of triacylglycerol; (3) low-density lipoproteins (LDL),
representing a final stage in the catabolism of VLDL; and (4) high-density
lipoproteins (HDL), involved in VLDL and chylomicron metabolism and also in
cholesterol transport. Triacylglycerol is the predominant lipid in chylomicrons and
VLDL, whereas cholesterol ester is the predominant lipids in LDL and phospholipids
is the predominant lipids in HDL, respectively the structure of the lipoprotein is
presented in figure I.
13
Figure - I
GENERAL STRUCTURE OF LIPOPROTEIN
The nonpolar lipid core consists of mainly triacylglycerol and cholesteryl ester
and is surrounded by a single surface layer of amphipathic phospholipid and
cholesterol molecules (Figure. 1). These are oriented so that their polar groups face
outward to the aqueous medium. The protein moiety of a lipoprotein is known as an
apolipoprotein or apoprotein, constituting nearly 70% of some HDL and as little as
1% of chylomicrons.
a. The Chylomicrons
Chylomicrons are the largest of the lipoproteins and the least dense because
of their rich triacylglycerol content. They are synthesized from dietary lipids within
the epithelial cells of the small intestine and then secreted into the lymphatic vessels
draining the gut. They enter the bloodstream. The major apoproteins of chylomicrons
are apoB-48, apoCII, and apoE . The apoCII activates lipoprotein lipase (LPL), an
enzyme that projects into the lumen of capillaries in adipose tissue, cardiac muscle
and skeletal muscle. This activation allows LPL to hydrolyze the chylomicrons,
leading to the release of free fatty acids derived from core triacylglycerides of the
14
lipoprotein into these target cells. The muscle cells then oxidize the fatty acids as fuel
while the adipocytes and mammary cells store them as triacylglycerols (fat). The
partially hydrolyzed chylomicrons remaining in the bloodstream (the chylomicron
remnants), now partly depleted of their core triacylglycerols, retain their apoE and
apoB48 proteins. Receptors in the plasma membranes of the liver cells bind to apoE
on the surface of these remnants, allowing them to be taken up by the liver through a
process of receptor-mediated endocytosis.
b. Very-Low-Density Lipoproteins (VLDL)
If dietary intake of fatty acids exceeds the immediate fuel requirements of the
liver, the excess fatty acids are converted to triacylglycerols, which, along with free
and esterified cholesterol, phospholipids, and a variety of apoproteins , including
apoB-100, apoCII, and apoE, are packaged to form VLDL. These particles are then
secreted from the liver into the bloodstream. The density, particle size, and lipid
content of VLDL particles are given in. These particles are then transported from the
hepatic veins to capillaries in skeletal and cardiac muscle and adipose tissue, where
lipoprotein lipase is activated by apoCII in the VLDL particles. The activated enzyme
facilitates the hydrolysis of the triacylglycerol in VLDL, causing the release of fatty
acids and glycerol from a portion of core triacylglycerols. These fatty acids are
oxidized as fuel by muscle cells, used in the resynthesis of triacylglycerols in fat cells,
The residual particles remaining in the bloodstream are called VLDL remnant
Intermediate-Density Lipoprotein (IDL) and Low-Density Lipoproteins (LDL)
Approximately half of the VLDL remnants are not taken up by the liver but,
instead, has additional core triacylglycerols removed to form IDL, a specialized class
of VLDL remnants. With the removal of additional triacylglycerols from IDL through
the action of hepatic triglyceride lipase within hepatic cells LDL is generated from
IDL. The LDL particles are rich in cholesterol and cholesterol esters. Approximately
60% of the LDL is transported back to the liver, where its apoB-100 binds to specific
apoB-100 receptors in the liver cell plasma membranes, allowing particles to be
endocytosed into the hepatocyte. The remaining 40% of LDL particles are carried to
extrahepatic tissues that also contain apoB-100 receptors, allowing them to internalize
the LDL particles and use their cholesterol for the synthesis of steroid hormones. If an
15
excess of LDL particles is present in the blood, this specific receptor-mediated uptake
of LDL by hepatic and nonhepatic tissue becomes saturated. The “excess” LDL
particles are now more readily available for nonspecific uptake of LDL by
macrophages present near the endothelial cells of arteries. This exposure of vascular
endothelial cells to high levels of LDL is believed to induce an inflammatory response
by these cells, a process suggested to initiate the complex cascade of atherosclerosis
discussed below17.
High Density Lipoprotein
HDL particles can be created by a number of mechanisms. The first is

synthesis of nascent HDL by the liver and intestine as a relatively small molecule
whose shell, like that of other lipoproteins, contains phospholipids, free cholesterol,
and a variety of apoproteins, predominant among which are apoA1, apoAII, apoCI,
and apoCII . Very low levels of triacylglycerols or cholesterol esters are found in the
hollow core of this early or nascent HDL.
a. Maturation of Nascent HDL
In the process of maturation, the nascent HDL particles accumulate

phospholipids and cholesterol from cells lining the blood vessels. As the central
hollow core of nascent HDL progressively fills with cholesterol esters, HDL takes on
a more globular shape to eventually form the mature HDL particle. The transfer of
lipids to nascent HDL does not require enzymatic activity.
b. Reverse Cholesterol Transport
A major benefit of HDL particles derives from their ability to remove

cholesterol from cholesterol filled cells and to return the cholesterol to the liver, a
process known as reverse cholesterol transport. This is particularly beneficial in
vascular tissue; by reducing cellular cholesterol levels in the subintimal space, the
likelihood that foam cells (lipid-laden macrophages that engulf LDL) will form within
the blood vessel wall is reduced. Reverse cholesterol transport requires a directional
movement of cholesterol from the cell to the lipoprotein particle. Cells contain the
protein ABC1 (ATP-binding cassette protein 1) which uses energy to move
16
cholesterol from the inner leaflet of the membrane to the outer leaflet. Once the
cholesterol has reached the outer membrane leaflet, the HDL particle can accept it. To
trap the cholesterol within the HDL core, the HDL particle acquires the enzyme
LCAT Lecithin Cholesterol Aeyl Transferase from the circulation (LCAT is
synthesized and secreted by the liver). LCAT catalyzes the transfer of a fatty acid
from the lecithin (phosphatidylcholine) in the phospholipid shell of the particle to the
cholesterol, forming a cholesterol ester. The cholesterol ester migrates to the core of
the HDL particle and is no longer free to return to the cell.
Elevated levels of lipoprotein-associated cholesterol in the blood, particularly

that associated with LDL but also that in the more triacylglycerol-rich lipoproteins,
are associated with the formation of cholesterol-rich atheromatous plaque in the blood
vessel wall, eventually leading to diffuse atherosclerotic vascular disease resulting in
acute cardiovascular events, such as a myocardial infarction, a stroke, or symptomatic
peripheral vascular insufficiency. High levels of HDL in the blood, therefore, are
believed to be vasculoprotective, because these high levels increase the rate of reverse
cholesterol transport “away” from the blood vessels and “toward” the liver. The
structure of the Transport and Lipoprotein between tissues presented in figure II18. [
Figure – II
TRANSPORT CHOLESTEROL AND LIPOPROTEIN BETWEEN TISSUES

17
Psychology
Many texts define psychology as the “science of mental processes and

behaviour.” However, ‘Psychology’ is difficult to define because the word “mental”
suggests there are no boundaries or limits. “Psyche”, in “Psychology” also suggests
breath, life, soul or mind – all of which are without limit.
Mental Health
The modern concept of health extends beyond the proper functioning of the
body. It includes a sound, efficient mind and controlled emotions. ‘Health is a state
of being hale, sound or whole in body and mind’. It means that both body and mind
work efficiently when they are in perfect harmony. Man is an integrated
psychosomatic unit whose behaviour is determined by both physical and mental
factors. Mental health means the ability to balance feelings, desires, ambitions and
ideals in one’s daily living19.
Yoga and Mental Health
The science of yoga is not only for the body, it is also for the mind. Even
though a child or an adult may be crippled in body, he or she is more than likely to be
perfectly sound in mind. Yoga helps individuals develop their latent mental facilities
and intelligence to the fullest possible extent20.
Characteristics of Mental Health
Mental health is far more than freedom from mental disease. It means the
ability to live comfortably with oneself and others, to understand and accept one’s
own feelings, to make nature and appropriate emotional responses to situations, to be
creative, to deal with anxiety and stress, to endure frustration, to gain satisfaction
from constructive achievement and to use leisure time profitably21.
A person in good mental health is a) comfortable in his environment, b) has

self–respect, c) knows his capabilities and limitations, d) maintains control over his
emotions, e) accepts both success and failure equally, f) enjoys the company of
people, g) is capable of being a member and leader in a group, h) accepts
18
responsibility, i) is capable of making his own decisions, j) makes and abides by
reasonably prompt decisions , and k) establishes realistic goals in life22.
A mentally healthy person is one who has a wholesome and balanced

personality free from schisms and inconsistencies, emotional and nervous tensions,
discards and conflicts. Wallace-Wallin has defined mental hygiene as “the application
of a body of hygienic information and technique called from sciences of psychology,
child study, education, sociology, psychiatry, medicine and biology for the purpose of
observation and improvement of mental health of the individual and of the
community”23.
Self concept
The formation of self-concept is fundamental to the development of the

individual’s personality. Hence, self-concept means how a person thinks or feels
about him/her self. It may be positive or negative.
In recent years, there has been growing realization of the importance of self-
concept in understanding and predicting the human behaviour. A self-concept is an
understanding that one is separate and independent person24.
The beginning of a self-concept actually occurs within the first year or two of
life. As early as nine months of age, infants look at themselves and smile in a mirror.
However, they do not seem to distinguish that the image is self as opposed to any
particular infant. By around 15 months of age, children do begin to show evidence of
self-recognition. By 18 to 20 months of age, nearly all infants have developed at least
a rudimentary concept of self They show self-conscious behaviour in front of a mirror
and can recognize themselves in a picture or videotape25.
Children with a positive self-concept are described as imaginative, confident

in their own judgments and abilities, assertive, able to assume leadership roles, less
preoccupied with themselves, and able to devote more time to others and to external
activities.
Children with a negative self-concept are described quiet, unobtrusive

unoriginal, lacking in imitation, withdrawn and inartificial about themselves (Copper
19
Smith, 1967). School progress and academic achievement are influenced by self-
concept as in vocational choice.
Self-concept represents how a person sees himself or herself and it is thought

to have three components: ideal self (the person one would like to be): public self
(the image one believes others have of oneself); and real self (The sum of those
subjective thoughts, feelings, and needs that a person sees as being authentically his).
Sometimes there is a conflict between the different components of self resulting in
anxiety. To maintain good mental health, the public and ideal self should be
compatible with the real self26. The self-concept is different from self-Consciousness,
which is an awareness or preoccupation with one’s self. The components of the self-
concept include physical, psychological, and social attributes, which can be
influenced by the individual’s attitudes, habits, beliefs and ideas. These components
and attributes can not be condensed to the general concepts of self-image and the self-
esteem27.
Personality
Personality is total being of a man. It includes physical as well as mental

make up sensation, reflexes, instincts, emotions, perceptions, imaginations, memory,
intelligence, reasoning, will and characters.
Personality is in some sense an organization that characterizes an individual.

It is an individuals enduring persistent response pattern across a variety of situations.
It is comprised of relatively stable patterns of action often referred to as traits,
dispositions tendencies, motivation, attitudes and beliefs which are confined into more
or less integrated self structure. Personality includes the characteristics and attributes
that distinguish the individual from others. It consists of the varied and yet typical
efforts at adjustment that are carried out by the individual.
As personality includes everything about a person, it is not static. It is

dynamic and even in the process of change and modification. Personality is the total
quality of an individual behaviour as it is shown in his habits of thinking, his interest,
his manner of acting and his Personal life. Personality can be changed only when the
person is willing to undergo a process of re-education under expert guidance. The
20
term personality denotes social attractiveness. Personality cannot be demonstrated,
measured and qualified, but it is recognized as a unique pattern of trait which
characterizes the individual.
Every day we are changing, yet all these changes do not break our continuity
with the past, so far as there is a unity in all pursuits and past experiences, there is a
personality that can be said to exist in us.
“We are not the same today as we were a year ago. Many things happened in
the year. If we should compare ourselves, now with what we were a year ago in the
same way we would hardly recognize ourselves, yet we are the same personality.”
Therefore, personality is the sum total of all the biological innate dispositions
and tendencies acquired by experience and frequently used as a product of social
interaction. It is seen as influencing, guiding and motivation behaviour. Presumably it
makes people unique and causes them to act or see situations differently from others28.
Eysenck Personality Concepts
Eysenck has given an impetus to the investigations in the field of personality

study, through his scientific works. He considered himself a “cautious psychologist
unwilling and unable to make statements unless they are the result of replicable
research, statistically controlled and openly reported.
Eysenck’s theory on personality for better understanding of human behaviour

can be analysed on the basis of the following four principles.
a) Biological Principles
b) Methodological Principles
c) Dynamic or structural and
d) Learning principles
Eysenck’s biological principles are applied on nervous system. It is revealed

by Eysenck himself in a note sent to Bischor. He considers introversion –
21
extroversion operate at the casual level in the neural systems and Neuroticism is
believed to come from the excitability of the autonomic nervous systems, on the other
hand extroversion and introversion are based on the properties of the central nervous
systems entailed the reactionary conclusion that psychological and social traits are
biologically predetermined.
In soviet psychology, Extroversion – Introversion manifestation critically

reviewed from Marxist positions is regarded as properties of temperament, i.e. as
dynamic (not substantive) characteristics of mental process that serve as premises for
development of specific personal qualities.
In this work, Eysenck has identified three primary dimensions of personality.
Introversion (super ego) - Extroversion (id)
Neuroticism - Non neuroticism
Psychoticism - Non Psychoticism29.
According to Carl, the extroverted type directs his interests outwards, and
surrounding objects attract his vital interests and ‘vital energy’ like a magnet; in a
sense this leads to his alienation from himself, to belittlement of the personal
significance of his subjective world. Extroverts are characterized by impulsiveness,
initative, flexibility of behaviour and social adaptability. Conversely introverts direct
their interests inwards, towards their own thoughts and feelings, to which they ascribe
supreme value; they are also characterized by unsociability, reticence, social
passiveness, tendency towards self-analysis and difficult social adjustment30.
Statement of the problem
The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of the twelve weeks of
select yogasanas, pranayama and meditation training on biochemical, physiological
and psychological variables of male students.
22
Hypotheses
It was hypothesised that there would be significant effects on biochemical,

physiological and psychological variables as a result of twelve weeks of yogasanas
pranayama and meditation practice when compared with the control group.
Delimitations
1. The study was restricted to forty college male students in the Union Territory of
Puducherry.
2. Forty male students were selected for the study, of which twenty was considered as
the control group and the remaining twenty as the experimental group.
3. The age of the selected subjects ranged from 18 to 23 years and all of them were
healthy and normal.
4. The twelve weeks of yogasanas, pranayama and meditation training were given for
the experimental group.
5. The criterion variables selected for the study were confined to the following select
yogasanas, pranayama and meditation on biochemical, physiological and
psychological variables.
6. In the present study the following variables were selected, namely
a. Biochemical Variables
i. Blood glucose
ii. Total cholesterol
iii. Triglycerides
iv. High density lipoprotein
v. Low density lipoprotein.
vi. Very low density lipoprotein

23
b. Physiological Variables
i. Vital capacity
a. Forced vital capacity
b. Forced expiratory volume in first second (FEV1)
c. Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR)
ii. Blood pressure
a. Systolic blood pressure
b. Diastolic blood pressure
iii. Pulse rate
iv. Rate pressure product
v. Respiratory pressure
a. Maximum expiratory pressure
b. Maximum inspiratory pressure
c. Breath holding time
c. Psychological variables
i. Mental health
ii. Self – concept
iii. Personality
24
Limitations
1. The heredity and environmental factors which influence the criterion variables
were recognized as limitations.
2. The mood of the subjects which prevailed at the time of the training period also
could not be controlled.
3. The state of feeling and environment factors while responding to the

psychological questionnaire by the subjects and their responds have also been
taken into account.
4. Certain factors like rational habits like life style, daily routine, diet and climatic
condition were not taken into account in this study.
5. The uncontrollable changes in the climatic conditions such as atmospheric

temperature, humidity, etc., during pre and post test period were considered as
limitations.
6. The subjects economic situation was not taken into consideration.
Definition and Explanation of the Terms
Yoga
Yoga is a method by which one can obtain control of one’s latent powers. It
offers the complete means to self realisation31.
Yoga is a timeless pragmatic science evolved over thousands of years dealing

with the physical, moral and spiritual well being of a man as a whole32.
Pranayama
Pranayama means control of life force through the art of breathing33.

P
ranayama means breath control. In Sanskrit, prana means breath and ayama means a
control. In modern literature on yoga, prana, even in the compound pranayama, has
been often interpreted to mean a subtle psychi force or a subtle cosmic element34.
25
Prana means a subtle life force which provides energy to different organs
(including mind) and also controls many vital life processes (e.g. circulation,
respiration etcetra). Ayama signifies the voluntary effort to control and direct this
prana35.
Meditation
Meditation essentially means temporary freedom thoughts. Unlike sleep, it is a

“wakeful” thought – free state, in which all our senses are alert and awake. In fact,
during meditation, we are many times more alert and awake than during our day- to-
day life. It is a state of mind in which our thinking process comes to an end for a
short period of time. During meditation, one experiences a complete stillness
profound quiclude36.
Lipid Profile
Lipids are insoluble in water but are soluble in alcohol and other solvents.
When dietary fats are digested and absorbed into the small intestine, they eventually
re-form into triglycerides, which are then packaged into lipoproteins37.
Cholesterol
Cholesterol is the fatty substance formed in the blood38. Cholesterol is a white

fatty alcohol of steroid group, found in body tissue, blood and bile, assists in synthesis
of vitamin D and various hormones. Excessive deposits of cholesterol on inside of
arteries are associated with arteriosclerosis and coronary heart disease39.
Total Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a sterol, a lipid found in the cell membranes of all body tissues,
and is transported in the blood plasma of all animals. Because cholesterol is
synthesized by all eukaryotes, trace amounts of cholesterol are also found in
membranes of plants and fungi40.
Triglycerides
26
Triglycerides are the chemical forms in which most fat exists in food as well
as in the body. They are also present in blood plasma and in association with
cholesterol, form the plasma lipids. Triglycerides in plasma are derived from fats
eaten in foods or made in the body from other energy sources like carbohydrates41.
High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol
High Density Lipoproteins comprise the smallest protein of lipoproteins and

the largest quantity of protein. These High Density Lipoproteins may be associated
with risk of heart disease42.
Lipoproteins, which are combinations of lipids (fats) and proteins, are the
form in which lipids are transported in the blood. The high-density lipoproteins
transport cholesterol from the tissues of the body to the liver so it can be gotten rid of
(in the bile). HDL cholesterol is therefore considered the “good” cholesterol. The
higher the HDL cholesterol level, the lower the risk of coronary artery disease43.
LDL Cholesterol
Low density lipoprotein is the major cholesterol carrying lipoprotein.

Elevated LDL levels herald a strong predisposition to coronary heart disease, stroke
and peripheral vascular disease.
Lipoproteins, which are combinations of lipids (fats) and proteins, is the form
in which lipids are transported in the blood. The low-density lipoproteins transport
cholesterol from the liver to the tissues of the body. LDL cholesterol is therefore
considered as “bad” cholesterol44.
VLDL Cholesterol
Very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol is one of the three major

types of blood cholesterol combined with protein. As triglyceride levels are reduced,
so are VLDL levels. Foods that are high in glycemic index tend to stimulate VLDL
cholesterol production45.
Vital Capacity (VC)

27
Vital capacity is the sum of the tidal air and the inspiratory and expiratory
reserve volumes46.
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC)
Forced vital capacity is defined as the maximal volume of air which a person
can expel from his lungs by a forcible expiration after the deepest possible
inspiration47.
Forced Expiratory Volume in first second (FEV1)
After inspiring maximally, the subject expires maximally into a Spirometer

and a percentage of total capacity expired in the first second is calculated48.
Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR)
It is found more convenient and informative to measure the rate at which one
liter of air is expelled over the fastest part of the expiratory curve and express this as
maximum forced expiratory flow rate or peak flow rate49.
Blood Pressure (BP)
The pressure measured in the vascular system that is associated with cardiac
contraction (systolic) and relaxation (diastolic)50.
Systolic Blood Pressure (SP)
“The highest level to which the arterial blood pressure rises during the systolic
ejection of blood from the Ventricle”51.
“Systolic Blood Pressure is the highest blood pressure of the Cardiac cycle
occurring immediately after systolic of the Ventricles of the heart52.
Diastolic Blood Pressure (DP)
“Diastolic Pressure is the lowest arterial blood pressure of the cardiac cycle
occurring during diastolic of the heart”53.
Pulse Rate
28
The number of beats of a pulse per minute or the number of the beats of the
heart and entries per minute54 The number of beats felt in exactly in one minute is
known as pulse rate.
Maximum Expiratory Pressure (MEP)
The subject is asked to blow against a mercury column after taking in a full
breath to (TLC) and to maintain the column at the maximum level of two seconds55.
Maximum Inspiratory Pressure (MIP)
The subject is asked to perform maximal inspiratory effort against the mercury
column after breathing out fully (RV). The maximum inspiratory pressure that could
be maintained for two seconds is taken as MIP56.
Breath Holding Time
It is the duration of time through which one can hold his breath without
inhaling or exhaling after a deep inhalation57.
Mental Health
Mental health is defined as a state of personal mental well being in which

individuals feel basically satisfied with themselves, their roles in life, and their
relationship with others58.
Mental health is the measure of a person’s ability to shape his environment to

adjust to life as he has to face it and to do so with a reasonable amount of satisfaction,
success, efficiency, and happiness59.
Self Concept
Self concept can be conceived as a set beliefs about self, that are presumed to
be dominant feature in social perception and resulting in attributional and self-
conceptional process60.
Self concept is ‘the experience of one’s own being. It is an organized

cognitive structure comprised of a set of attitudes, beliefs and values that cut across
29
all facets of experience and action, organizing and trying together a variety of specific
habits, abilities, outlooks, ideas and feelings that a person displays61.
Personality
Personality is described in terms of an individuals behaviours – his action,

postures, words, and attitudes and opinions regarding his external world62.
According to Woodworth, personality can be broadly defined as the total

quality of an individual’s behaviour, as it is revealed in his habits of thought and
expression, his attitudes and interests, his manner of acting and his personal
philosophy of life63.
Significance of the Study
The finding of the study would reveal the effect of select yogasanas, pranayama
and meditation on biochemical, physiological and psychological variables of male
students.
1. The study would provide scientific base and guidance to the physical
educationist, coaches and players to understand the effect of select yogasanas,
pranayama and meditation on biochemical, physiological and psychological variables
of male students.
2. The present study would give some basic knowledge to the sports
scientists to conduct further research in the area of physiological, biochemical and
psychological variables.
3. The result of the study would add to the quantum of knowledge in the area
of sports training, exercise biochemistry and exercise physiology related to
yogasanas, pranayama and meditation.
4. This study will help to create awareness among the citizens to understand
the importance of yogic training.
30
REFERENCES
1
Dorling Kindersley, Yoga Mind and Body (Londan: Sivananda Yoga
Vedanta Centre, 1996), p.6.
2
Bharati Joshi, Yoga for everybody (New Delhi: Rupa publishers,
2005), p.9.
3
B.K.S.Iyengar, The Art of Yoga (New Delhi: Harper Collins Publishers,
1993), p.13 – 14.
4
B. Gopaalananda, Simple Techniques of Yoga for Women (Chennai: New
Century Book House Pvt Ltd. 2nd ed. 2007), p.2.
5
B.K.S. Iyengar, The Art of Yoga, (New Delhi: Harper Collins Publishers,
1993), p.14.
6
Sharma, P.D. Yogasana and Pranayama for Health (Gala Publishers,
Ahmedabad, 1989), pp.7-9.
7
M.Gore, Anatomy and Physiology of Yogic Practices (Lonavala: Kanchan
Prahasan, 1991), p.p.83-84.
8
Kozier & Erb’s, Fundamentals of Nursing Concepts, Process, and
Practice (Pearson Education, Inc., 2008), p.338.
9
Dorling Kindersley, Yoga Mind and Body (London: Sivananda Yoga
10
Hindu, Thursday, January 31, 2008. p.9
11
12
Kozier & Erb’s, Fundamentals of Nursing Concepts, Process, and
Practice (Pearson Education, Inc., 2008), p.338.
31
13
Vedanta Centre, 1996), P.158.
14
15
Georges Gorree and Jean Barbier, The Love of Christ: Mother Teresa (
London Collins Fount Paperbacks, 1982), pp.8-9.
16
N.Tietz., Fundamental of Clinical Chemistry (Philadphhia: W.S Saunders
Company, 1976), pp.809-861.
17
Collen Smith, Allan D. Marks et al. Basic Medical Biochemistry- A
Clinical approach (Lippincott Williams and Wilkins), pp.583-503.
18
Robert K. Murray et al., Harper’s Biochemistry (New York McGraw Hill
Book Company, 2000), pp.217-229.
19
Kuppuswamy, Advanced Educational Psychology (New Delhi: Sterling
Publishers Pvt. Ltd., 1993), p.382.
20
Sa tyananda Saraswati, Yoga Education for Children ,1999. p.85.
21
E. Turner, Personal and Community Health (St.Louis: The C.V.Mosby
Company 1971), p.10.
22
Ibid., p.24.
23
Kundu and D.N. Tutoo, Educational Psychology (New Delhi: Sterling
Publishers Private Limited, 1991), p.517.
24
Spear.P.D., Penrod, S.D., Baker, T.B., Psychology: Perspectives on
Behaviour (New York: John wiley and sons,1988).
25
Brooks – Gunn.J., and Lewis, M., “The development of Early Visual Self –
Recognition”, Deveopmental Review, 4 (1984). pp.215-239.
32
26
http:/www.google, Com/search? Sourceid= navelient & Je =UTF
=Jun 2008.
27
http :// www. Answers. Com / self – concept? Cat=…
28
Stephen worchel and wayne Shebilske, Psychology: Principles and
Applications (2nd ed), (New Jersey: Prentice Hall, Englewood Cliffs, 1983), p.375.
29
Bryant J. Cratty, Psychology in Contemporary Sports (2nd ed) New Jersey:
Prentice Hall, Inc., 1983), p.96
30
A.V.Petrovsky and M.g. Yarioshevsky, A Concise Psychological
Dictionary, (Moscow: Progress Publishers, 1987), p.97.
31
J.P. Sreekumar, Simple Yoga, (Madras: Yoga Brotherhood Publishing,
1968), p.6
32
B.K.S. Iywnger, Light on Yoga, (Australia: George Allen and Unwin
Australia Pvt. Ltd, 1968), p.13.
33
Jayadeva yogendra, “Pranayama” Journal of the Yoga Institute Vol. 7,
1965, p.111.
34
Kuvalayananda, Pranayama (Bombay: Popular Prakashan, 1966), p.35.
35
M.M. Geore, Anatomy and Physiology of Yogic Practices, (Lonavala:
Kanchan Prakashan, 1984), p.107.
36
Samprasad Vinod, Nine Secrets of Successful Meditation, (New Delhi:
New Age Books 2002), p.43.
37
www.medterms.com/faqs.org/nutrition/Kwa-Men/Lipid-Profile.html.
38
Larry G. Shaver, Essentials of Exercise Physiology (Delhi: Surjeet
Publications, 1981), p.186.
39
Author’s Guide, Collins Concise Encyclopedia (Great Britain: Janold &
Sons Ltd. 1977), p.125.
33
40
www.medterms.com/en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cholesterol
41
www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4778
42
Stoll and Beller, The Professional’s Guide to Teaching Aerobics, P.13.
43
www.edterms.com/script/art.asp?articleky=3662
44
www.medterms.com/script/main/aart.asp?articlekey=6233
www.mayoclinic.com/health/vldl-cholesterol/ANO 1335
46
Vemon B. Mounteastle, Medical Physiolog,y (Saint Louis: The C.V.
Mosby Company, 1968), p.621.
47
ShaverG Larry, Essentials of Exercise Physiology (New York:MacMillian
publishing company,1981), p.218.
48
C.F. Consolazeo, et al., Physiological Measurements of Metabolic
Functions in Man (New York: McGraw Hill Book Co., 1963).
49
J.R. Shah and R. H. Mehta, “Peak Flow Rate as Measure of Pulmonary
Ventilation Capacity”, Indian Journal Surg., 23: 1961, p.398.
50
E. Lawrence, et al. Physiology of Exercise (7th edn.), (Saint Louis: The
C.V. Mosby Company, 1976), p.341.
51
Ibid., p.341.
52
Guyton, Function of Human Body (Calcutta Medical Allied Agency,
1980), p. 207.
53
Govin Reid & John M. Thomson, Exercise Prescriptions for Fitness
(Englewood Cliffs Hew Jerrey: Premtice Hall JNC, 1985), p.205.
54
William Goddie (ed). Twentieth Century Dictionar (Mumbai: Allied
Publishers, 1964), p. 889.
34
55
Madanmohan et.al, “Effect of Yoga Training on Reaction Time,
Respiratory Endurance and Muscle Strength”, Indian Journal of Physiological
Pharmacy, (1992), p.230.
56
Ibid.p.230.
57
Strukic p.j., Basic Physiology, Newyork: Springer Inc., 1981
58
Allport, Hand Book of Social Psychology, p.180.
59
H. Frederick Kilander, School Health Education: A study of Control,
Methods and Meterials, (New York: The Macmillan Company, 1962), p.182.
60
Burns, R.B. The Self-Concepts (Londona : Movosti Press Agency
Publishing House,1981).
61
The International Encyclopedia of Education, Research and studies
(Oxford: Pergamon Press,1985).
62
S. Frank Freeman, Theory and Practice of Psychological Testing (New
Delhi: Oxford & IBH Publishing Co. Pvt. Ltd), p.182.
63
Robert S.Woodworth and D.G.Marquis, Psychology of Study of Mental
Life, (London: Methuens Co., 1968), P.87.
Chapter II
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
The reviews of related literature for better understanding of the study and to
interpret the results have been presented in this chapter. A study of relevant literature
is an essential step to get a full picture of what has been done and said abroad and in
one’s own country with regard to the problem under study. Such a review brings
about a deep and clear perspective of the overall field. The reviews were collected
from the libraries of Annamalai Universtiy, Annamalai Nagar; Alagappa University,
Karaikudi; Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education, Gwalior; Y.M.C.A.
College of Physical Education, Chennai; Jawaharlal Insititute of Postgradute Medical
Education and Research (Jipmer), Puducherry; Pondicherry University, Puducherry.
A study of relevant literature on various literature related to this study, aspects

of yogasana, pranayama, and meditation on biochemical, physiological and
psychological have been published. The research scholar has attempted in this
chapter to project the literature related to this study.
PHYSIOLOGICAL
Udupa et al.1 studied the physiological and biochemical changes following

the practice of some yogic exercise. The result shows that the 12 normal subjects
decreased average systolic blood pressure after 3 months of hatha yoga practices but
returned to the pre-experiment value after 6 months. The average change involved
was small. In contrast to the small changes in resting blood pressure observed in
normal hypertension subjects who practiced yoga, there was observation of significant
decrease in resting blood pressure of hypertension who practiced savasana (Corpse
Posture) with predominant of hypertension as an ailment. The serious circulatory
ailments statistically correlated with hypertensive segments of the population. It is an
encouraging result of research in yoga that considerable evidence has been found
suggesting that a program of relaxation or meditation may be helpful in lowering
blood pressure in hypertensive patients. It also helps to maintain blood pressure in
hypertensive patients and in maintaining blood pressure control while decreasing the
level of drug therapy.
36
Vadiya and Pansare2 carried out the present study on the effect of yoga on
pulse and blood pressure among medical students – boys and girls in the age group of
16-18 years. The students were divided into two groups. One group was given yoga
training for a period of 6 weeks while the second group acted as a control. Resting
pulse rate and blood pressure was measured in both groups before starting the course
and at the end of the course. Results were analysed and compared. There was
decrease in pulse rate and blood pressure after the yoga training in both boys and
girls.
Prasad and Sinha3 had taken 44 subjects, 38 males and 6 females in the age of
20-69 years (average year 42 years) original systolic pressure from 140 to 180 mm hg
and diastolic pressure from 140 to mm hg and diastolic pressure from, 90 to 180 mm
hg. They were taught to perform savasana, twice a day for 30 minutes. The pulse
rate, blood pressure and respiration were recorded before and after the practice. After
three months of practice, the patients had a definite feeling of well being as they
observed a marked impotent in headache, narrowness, irritability, factions etcetera,
and also their average mean blood pressure reduced from 130 to 107 mm hg after the
treatment.
Gopal4 and his associates had conducted a study on the effect on yogasana on
muscular tone and cardio respiratory adjustments. They have presented the data
concerning finger blood flow in various practices of hatha yoga. Gopal’s
measurements were of two groups, each with fourteen male subjects; one group had
been trained in asanas and pranayamas for at least six months while the other group
had no yoga training but took long walks and played light games regularly. Wenger’s
data are from yoga students who had practiced yoga regularly for more than two years
in the ashram at Kaivalyadhama, Lonavala, India.
In one part of his studies Gopal reports, finger blood flow, as measures plethys
mographically for both groups during performance of the sequence of seven yoga
practices. For the untrained subjects the finger blood flow was least in
Viparithakarani (inverted action) Sarvangasana (shoulder stand), and Shirshasana
(head stand), and was greatest in Dharmicasana (symbol of yogi) and Savasana
37
(corpse posture). For the trained subjects, finger blood flow as least in the headstand
and greatest in Dharmicasana, although almost as great in Savasana.
Seshien5 conducted a study on the effect of pranayama and transcendental

meditation on the pulse rate and blood pressure of the male students of the Sourastra
College, Madurai. For this purpose 75 college students were randomly assigned to
one of the three groups. The first group performed pranayama, the second group
performed transcendental mediation and the third group performed pranayama and
transcendental mediation. Subjects in each group were trained with respective
programmers for a period of six weeks, five days a week from Monday to Friday and
two sessions of 20 minutes duration both in the morning and in the evening. Prior to
and at the end of the training period all the subjects were tested for pulse rate and
blood pressure. The result showed that the pranayama reduced the blood pressure.
Transcendental mediation has a positive effect on systolic blood pressure only
combined pranayama and transcendental mediation showed very good effect on all
the physiological parameters.
Gopal et al.6 studied the effect of Yogasanas and Pranayamas on blood

pressure, pulse rate and some respiratory function. Two groups of male volunteers,
20-33 years in age and having the same experimental group consisted of 14 subjects
in Yogasanas and Pranayamas for a period of six weeks. The group consisted of
fourteen normal untrained subjects, who carried out non-yogic exercise - that is, long
walk and playing light games. Pre-test and Post-test were conducted to both the
groups before and after training. The results of both groups were compared. The
trained persons had greater vital capacity, more tidal volume and less respiratory rate
than the untrained group. The prescribed standard exercise increased the respiratory
rate in both the groups who instead exhibited a corresponding increase in total
volume.
Makwana et al.7 conducted a study to find out the effect of short term yoga
practice on ventilatory function test. For this purpose they used 35 healthy normal
male subjects, their age ranging from 20 to 15 years. The experimental group of 25
subject underwent 10 weeks of yogic practices, 90 minutes daily in the morning.
Yoga training limited the exercise i.e., Surya Namaskar, Sharir Sanchalama, Eleven
38
Asanas, Pranayama and Prayer. A control group of 15 subjects were not performing
yoga or any other physical exercise. All the subjects were tested for ventilatory
function in the beginning, before starting yogic training and practices and again after a
period of ten weeks of yogic practices.
The teachers found out that 1. For the yoga group, the rate of respiration
decreased significantly (PL .05) more than the control group. 2. Vital capacity has
been found increased significantly in yoga than the control group. 3. Tital volume did
not show and significant change in the yoga and control groups.
Oak and Bhole8 in their experiment on the pulse rate during and after Bhaya
Kumbaka with difference conditions of abdominal wall. The effect of pranayama on
pulse rate, found that very slight decrease in pulse rate, was observed during three
attempts of Bahya Kumbhaka with relaxed and sucked in condition as udiyana while
it was found to increase slightly in the protracted condition of the abdominal wall. It
almost remained unchanged during the first minutes after three cycles of pranayamic
breathing.
Joshi and Pansare9 attempted to find out the effect of 6 weeks Yogic training
on Pulmonary function tests in healthy medical students. Yogic training includes
relaxation, Asanas, Suddhikriyas and Pranayamas. Effects were compared with
control group. There was no significant change in static lung volumes like tidal
volume and vital capacity, but there was significant increase in dynamic lung volumes
like maximum breathing capacity and forced expiratory volume.
Bhargava et al.10 conducted a study on Autonomic responses to breath

holding and its variations on twenty healthy young men, with the practice of
pranayamas. Breath was held at different phases of respiration and parameters
recorded were breath holding time, heart rate systolic and diastolic blood pressure and
galvanic skin resistance (GSR). After taking initial recordings, all subjects practised
Nadi-Shodhana Pranayama for a period of 4 weeks. At the end of 4 weeks, same
parameters were again recorded and the results were compared. Baseline heart rate
and blood pressure (systolic and diastolic) showed a tendency to decrease and both
these autonomic parameters significantly decreased at breaking point after
39
pranayamic breathing. Although the GSR was recorded in all subjects the
observations made were not conclusive. Thus pranayama breathing exercises appear
to alter autonomic responses to breath holding probably by increasing vagal tone and
decreasing sympathetic discharges.
Birkel et al.11 studied The Hatha Yoga: Improved vital capacity of the college
students. Vital capacity of the lungs (functional lung volume) is a critical component
of good health. Vital capacity is an important concern for those with asthma, heart
conditions or lung ailments; those who smoke; and those who have no known lung
problems. Researchers at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, studied the effects
of yoga poses and breathing exercises on vital capacity. The investigators measured
the lung volume using the Spiropet spirometer (an instrument designed specifically
for this purpose). Determinants were taken at the beginning and at the end of two 17-
week semesters. No control group was used. A total of 287 college students (89 men
and 198 women) had enrolled in the yoga training program. 18 Subjects were taught
yoga poses, breathing techniques and relaxation in 50-minute class meetings, twice
weekly for 15 weeks. Class adherence was very high (99.96%). The main outcome
measure was vital capacity over time for asthmatics, smokers and subjects with no
known lung disease. The large number of subjects--287--was a valid sample for a
study of this type. The study showed a statistically significant (p<0.001) improvement
in vital capacity across all categories over time. It is not known whether this positive
improvement was the result of yoga poses, breathing techniques, relaxation or other
aspects of exercise in the subjects' life. However, these findings were consistent with
those of other research studies. Increases in lung capacity and function are among
the trademark benefits of yoga exercise as long as it is of sufficient quality and
duration and involves a distinct yogic breathing component. Earlier studies have
demonstrated that when yoga-induced increases in forced expiratory volume in one
second (FEV-1), the factor that is perhaps the most functional index of lung function.
This is an important benefit for those who have diminished lung volume and function
from emphysema or a sedentary lifestyle.
Madan Mohan et al.12 Investigated the effect of inspiratory and expiratory

phases of normal quiet breathing, deep breathing and Savitrierc Pranayam type
breathing on heart rate and mean ventricular QRS axis in young healthy untrained
40
subjects. The study was conducted on 20 normal student volunteers aged between
17-19 years. Physiological tests conducted were on heart rate (HR) and QRS axis.
Pranayama type breathing produced significant cardio-acceleration and increase in
QRS axis during the respiratory phase as compared to euphea on the other hand,
expiratory effort during Pranayama type breathing did not produce any significant
changes in heart rate or QRS axis. The changes in heart rate and QRS axis during the
inspiratory and expiratory phases of Pranayama type breathing were similar to the
changes observed during the corresponding phases of deep breathing.
M.S. Nayer et al.13 Investigated the effects of Yogic exercises on human

physical efficiency. The studies were conducted on 53 cadets of National Defence
Academy. The parameters of assessment, included ventilation, minute volume, rate
of respiration, oxygen respiration, pulse rate and blood pressure, mechanical
efficiency and maximum oxygen uptake, four additional assessments were made
under resting condition, viz. Vital Capacity (VC), Maximum Breathing Capacity
(MBC), Forced Expiratory Volume (FFV 10 Sec) and Breath Holding Time. All the 3
groups showed significant decrease in pulse rate during exercise. The yogic group in
addition recorded a highly significant increase in breath holding time (from 54 to 106
Sec and VC from 1.98 to 2.89 L/m2 body surface area). The remaining two groups
recorded only significant increase in VC, Ventilation, minute volume, rate of
respiration, blood Pressure, Mechanical efficiency maximum oxygen uptake capacity
and MBC remained unaltered in all the 3 groups.
K.N. Udupa et al.14 carried out a comparative study on the effects of some
individuals yogic practices in normal persons. The yogic postures namely
Sarvangasana, Sirashasana and Halasana alongwith their complementary postures
namely Matsyasana, Myurasana, and Paschimottonasana on physical, physiological,
endurance and metabolic chafes. After the practice, of Sarvangasana appears to
endure prominent physiological effects especially in cardiorespiratory system with
less amount of physical changes. The remaining produce one of physical fitness and
lesser amount of physiological changes.
D. Sakthinanavel15 studied the effect of continuous running, yogic pranayama,

and combination of continuous running and yogic pranayama exercise on cardio-
41
respiratory endurance, selected physiological and psychological variables of the male

students of Indira nagar, Puducherry. For this purpose sixty school students were
randomly assigned to four groups. Group I performed continuous running. Group II
performed pranayama, Group III performed, the combined continuous running and
pranayama group, Group IV acted as the control group and was not involved in any
specific training. Subjects in each group was trained with respective programmers for
fourteen weeks, four times a week, each training session lasted for 30 minutes. Prior
to and at the end of the training period, all subjects were tested for cardio-respiratory
endurance, selected physiological and psychological variables. Only combined
continuous running & yogic pranayama group showed significant improvement on
cardio-respiratory endurance & psychological variables & some of the physiological
Variables except cardiac variables like systolic pressure, diastolic pressure, mean
pressure, pulse pressure, & rate pressure product.
Chandrabose16 conducted a study on therapeutic effect of yoga practice on

patients suffering from bronchial asthma. For this investigation he selected 30 male
patients suffering from uncomplicated bronchial asthma and attending the out-patient
department of JIPMER hospital. Group 1 consisting of the experimental subjects
(n=20, age 18-56; height 158-163 cm; weight 40-72Kg) were trained in yoga under
the supervision of an experienced yoga teacher for 60 minutes daily in the forenoon.
After the training period, the subjects practices the yoga exercises daily for 30
minutes early in the morning for duration of 6 weeks. Group 11 subjects (n=10 age;
age: 19-48 years; height 160.5-179 cm; weight: 43-66 Kg) were not given yoga
training and formed the control group. Before and agter yogic training both the
groups were tested on Heart rate, Blood capacity, peak expiratory flow rate, Forced
expiratory Volume in first second, maximum expiratory pressure, Maximum
inspiratory pressure, 40 mm Hg test for Breath-holding. The researcher found that
Forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in first second and peak expiratory
flow rate significantly improved in the yoga training group compared with those of
the control group. Systolic pressure, Diastolic pressure, Pulse pressure, Mean
pressure and Rate pressure product had changed in yoga training group but did not
show the significant differences. In the control group the above said variables
remained practically unaltered.
42
K.N. Udupa et al.17 investigated the effect of physiological and biochemical

studies on the effect of yogic and certain other exercises. Ten young healthy
educated male volunteers in the age group of 20 to 23 years were randomly selected
among the university students. The sequence of practicing different asana were as
follows: 1. Sarvangasana – Matsyasana, Halasana – Paschimottasasa. 2. Sirshasana,
Bhujangasana – Salabhasana – Mayurasana.
The parameter studied in physical and physiological examinations were body

weight, chest expansion, respiration rate, pulse rate, blood pressure, breath holding
time, vital capacity and vital index and biochemical examinations were estimations of
cartecholamainies, cholinesterases, monoamine oxidize, plasma cortisol, serum PBI,
serum protein and blood sugar levels. It has been observed that yogic practices induce
more vital effects than physical exercise which mostly cause physical effects on
skeletal muscles. Yoga suryanamaskar appears mainly to influence the skeletal
muscle with relatively lesser influence on vital organs as is evident from increasing
body weight without change in endocrine and vital organ functions. On the other
hand, Yogic practices increased the serum PBI and plasma cortisol indicating
improved thyroid and adrenocortical function. The Sarvangasana group showed
maximum increase in serum PBI which suggests that this particular asana inhabits the
thyroid gland. The Suryanamaskar appears to induce mainly a stressful state as is
evident form the increased level of neurohumors and related enzymes in contrast to
yogic practices which appear to exert neurophysiological stability as is evident form
lowered levels of cholinesterase and catecholamines.
Mahajan et al.18 determined the effect of yogic lifestyle on the lipid status in
angina patients and normal subjects with risk factors of coronary artery disease. The
parameters included the body weight, estimation of serum cholesterol, triglycerides,
HDL, LDL and the cholesterol – HDL ratio. A baseline evaluation was done and then
the angina patients and risk factor subjects were randomly assigned as control (n=41)
and intervention (yoga) group (n=52). Lifestyle advice was given to both the groups.
An integrated course of yoga training was given for four days followed by practice at
home. Serial evaluation of both the groups was done at four, 10 and 14 weeks.
Dyslipidemia was constant feature in all cases. An inconsistent pattern of change was
observed in the control group of angina (n=18) and risk factor subjects (n=23). The
43
subjects practicing yoga showed a regular decrease in all lipid parameters except
HDL. The effect started from four weeks and lasted for 14 weeks. Thus, the effect of
yogic lifestyle on some of the modifiable risk factors could probably explain the
Preventive and therapeutic beneficial effect observed in coronary artery disease.
Harinath et al.19 determined the effect of hatha yoga and omkar meditation
on cardioresporatory performance, psychologic profile, and melatonion secretion.
Thirty healthy men in the age group 25-35 years volunteered for the study. They were
randomly divided into two groups of 15 each. Group 1 subjects served as control and
performed body flexibility exercises for 40 minutes and slow running for 20 munutes
during morning hours and played games for 60 minutes during evening hours daily
for 3 months. Group 2 subjects practiced selected yogic asanas (Postures) for 45
minutes and pranayama for 15 minutes during the morning. Whereas during the
evening hours these subjects performed preparatory yogic postures for 15 minutes,
pranayama for 15 minutes, and meditation for 30 minutes daily, for 3 months.
Orthostatic tolerance, heart rate, Blood pressure, respiratory rate, dynamic lung
function (such as forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 second, forced
expiratory volume percentage, peak expiratory flow rate, and maximum voluntary
ventilation), and psychological profile were measured before and after 3 months of
yogic practices. Serial blood samples were drawn at various time intervals to study
the effects of these yogic practices and Omkar meditation on melatonin levels.
Results: Yogic practices for 3 months resulted in an improvement in cardiorespiratory
performance and psychologic profile. The plasma melatonin also showed an increase
after three months of yogic practices. The systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood
pressure, mean arterial pressure, and orthostatic tolerance did not show any significant
correlation with plasma melatonin. However, the maximum night time melatonin
levels in yoga group showed a significant correlation with well-being score.
Conclusion: These observations suggest that yogic practices can be used as
psychophysiologic stimuli to increase endogenous secretion of melatonin, which, in
turn, might be responsible for improved sense of well-being.
Swahney et al.20 conducted a study on Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

regression through life style changes: Vegetarianism, moderate exercise and stress
management through Rajayoga meditation. One hundred and nineteen patients of
44
coronary artery disease were registered for the study in March 1999. Out of these
119patients, 70 were angiographically documented cases with superior vena cava,
bicuspid valve defect or tricuspid valve defect, and 49 had tread mill test & echo
cardio graphic evidence of coronary artery disease. They were selected based on
well-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. All had at least >70% stenos is in one
of the major pericardial arteries. None of them were taking any lipid – lowering drug
and had left ventricular ejection fraction of more than 30% without left ventricular
failure. The life style intervention was started with a seven-day stay at Global
Hospital & Research Centre, Mount Abu. Detailed biochemical, cardiac,
physiological, psychological and hormonal investigations were carried out in these
patients before starting the intervention program. The noninvasive cardiac
investigations included ECG, TMT and echocardiography. The physiological
parameters like HR, BP, galvanic skin resistance, EEG and HR variability were
monitored using a computerized polygraphic recording system. The psychological
assessment included structural interview, anger scale, self-rating anxiety, hostility and
depression scale. Anthropometric measurements like hip-to-waist ratio and hip-to-
abdomen ratio were also worked out. After basal investigations, the subjects were
administered an intensive information, education and counseling program about CAD
and were explained how the adaptation to right life style can prevent progression of
the disease. They received a vegetarian diet of 1600-1800 Kcals./day. The patients
were individually asked to exercise (typically brisk walk) according to their baseline
TMT level. Preliminary results from the study have suggested a marked improvement
in the cardic function parameters within seven days of the intervention program,
which showed further improvement when reinforcement was done after six months of
entering the study. The left ventricular ejection fraction and exercise tolerance (TMT)
showed a significant improvement in patients whose adherence to the new life style
was more than 80%. Both systolic as well diastolic blood pressure decreased
significantly due to a consistent decline in autonomic sympathetic control over the
myocardium. Besides causing a 10 to 20% decline in total cholesterol, low-density
lipoprotein (LDL) and triglycerides levels, the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels
showed a slight but definite increase over the basal values. The fasting insulin,
glycosylated hemoglobin and glucose levels also showed a significant decrease
45
suggesting a better glycemic control. Morning as well as evening cortisol levels also
showed a 15% decline after six months of the life style intervention schedule.
BIOCHEMICAL
B.K. Sahay et al.21 attempted to find out the changes occurring invariance
biochemical parameter in normal healthy volunteers before and after the yogic
practices subjected to training in yogic practices like Pranayama, Vajvasana,
Bhugangasana, Shalabasana, Dhanursana, Makarasana, Halasana, Nankasana,
Ardhmatsyendrasana, Sirshasana and Savasana for a period of 3 months. The
parameters studied included fasting blood sugar serum cholesterol, serum
triglycerides – phosphokinase, serum cholinesterase, blood lactate, blood pymvalte
and urinary creatinine. The subjects were 53 male aged 28, the male body weight
being 58 Kg and 20 females and 25, the mean body weight being 54.5 Kg. There was
significant increase in the levels of creatinine, phospokinase and pyreuvate to locate P
or V ratio in the males as well as females at the end of the period of study. The values
of serum triglycerides were increased in females and those of serum Hunesterase in
males. The results indicated an increased muscular activity in an anaerobic
metabolism, which was evidenced by increased ratio as a result of training.
Bowman et al.22 determined the effects of aerobic exercise training and yoga
on the baroreflex in healthy elderly persons. It is unclear whether the age-associated
reduction in baroreflex sensitivity is modifiable by exercise training. The effects of
aerobic exercise training and yoga, a non-aerobic control intervention, on the
baroreflex of elderly persons were determined. Baroreflex sensitivity was quantified
by the a-index, at high and mid frequency, derived from spectral and cross-spectral
analysis of spontaneous fluctuations in heart rate and blood pressure. Twenty-six
sedentary, healthy, normotensive elderly subjects were studied. Fourteen (4 women)
of the sedentary elderly subjects completed 6 weeks of aerobic training, while the
other 12 subjects completed 6 weeks of yoga. Heart rate decreased following yoga but
not aerobic training. VO2 max increased by 11% following yoga and by 24%
following aerobic training. Following yoga, a high frequency but not mid frequency
increased. Short duration aerobic training does not modify the a-index at a mid
frequency or a high frequency in healthy normotensive elderly subjects.
46
Blumenthal et al.23 studied the cardiovascular and behavioral effects of aerobic

exercise training in healthy older men and women. The cardiovascular and behavioral
adaptations associated with a 4-month program of aerobic exercise training were
examined in 101 older men and women (mean age = 67 years). Subjects were
randomly assigned to an Aerobic Exercise group, Yoga and Flexibility control group,
or a waiting List control group. Prior to and following the 4-month programme, the
subjects underwent comprehensive physiological and psychological evaluations.
Physiological measures included measurement of blood pressure, lipids, bone density,
and cardiorespiratory fitness including direct measurement of peak oxygen
consumption (VO2) and anaerobic threshold. Psychological measures included
measures of mood, psychiatric symptoms, and neuropsychological functioning. This
study demonstrated that 4 months of aerobic exercise training produced an overall
11.6% improvement in peak VO2 and a 13% increase in anaerobic threshold. In
contrast, the Yoga and Waiting List control groups experienced no change in
cardiorespiratory fitness. Other favorable physiological changes observed among
aerobic exercise participants included lower cholesterol levels, diastolic blood
pressure levels, and for subjects at risk for bone fracture, a trend toward an increase in
bone mineral content. Although a few significant psychological changes could be
attributed to aerobic exercise training, participants in the two active treatment groups
derceived themselves as improving on a number of psychological and behavioral
dimensions.
Chinnaswamy24 conducted a study on the effect of asanas and physical

exercise on selected physiological and biochemical variables among school boys. In
this study ninety male students were randomly selected from government higher
secondary school, Thampatti. The initial scores were measured for the selected
physiological and biochemical variables, namely pulse rate, systolic blood pressure,
diastolic blood pressure, haemogobic blood content and blood sugar land. The
treatment was given for a period of six weeks for the experimental groups. The
significance of the difference among the two means of exercise group and asana
group for the pre test and post test mean gains were determined by F ratio through
analysis of variance. Asana and physical exercise had significantly improved
haemoglobin contains – blood sugar, pulse rate and diastolic pressure. There was no
47
difference in systolic pressure in which either physical exercise group or asana group
made any effect.
Udupa et al.25 conducted a study on comparative biochemical studies on

meditation. The neurohumoral, endocrine and metabolic on two groups of volunteers
(10 from India and 10 from Western countries) who underwent a 10-days course of
mediation in a meditation camp. They showed some significant biochemical changes.
The blood neuro-humors and the related enzymes, namely RBC acetylcholine, RBC
cholinesterase, plasma catecholamines and plasma histamines were found to be
increased; while plasma cortisol, urinary corticoids and urinary nitrogen were found
decreased. This indicates that after the course of meditation these subjects were
physically stable and were on under less stressful state while they were mentally more
active and were in a state of increased awareness.
Udupa et al.26 assessed ten young adult volunteers undergoing certain yogic
and ordinary physical exercise for six months. They had been assessed
physiologically as well as bichemically including estimation of catecholamines,
cholinesterases, monoamine oxidase (MAO), diamine oxidase (DAO), plasma
cortisol, serum PBI. Serum proteins and blood sugar levels. It had been observed that
yogic practices induced more vital effects than physical exercise which mostly causes
physical effects on skeletal muscles. In additition, different yogic practices appeared
to cause different types of specific effects.
P.V. Karambelkar et al.27 examined the effect of three weeks yogic training on
the cholesterol levels of the 17 female subjects of the Teacher’s Training certificate in
Yoga, May 1978. The yogic training programme consisted of 25 yogic practices as
recommended by N.F.C syllabus. It was observed that yogic training imported daily
for 1 hour except on Sunday showed significant reduction in the mean cholesterol
level in these subjects. No significant changes were observed in weight and skin fold
during this period.
Santha Joseph et al.28 carried out a study on 10 healthy subjects to evaluate the
effect of yogic training on some autonomic responses and biochemical indices. Yogic
training was administered daily in the morning hours for one hour under the
48
supervision of qualified yoga instructors. Physiological and biochemical responses

were assessed before and after three months of training. As significant decrease in
heart rate, blood pressure and elevation of mean skin temperature and alpha index of
EEG were recorded, followed by reduction in blood glucose and plasma cholesterol
level. Changes in the dopamine-hydroxylase (DBH) activity, monoamine oxidase
(MAO) and adrenal steroids along with the physiological parameters indicated a shift
in the automatic balance towards relative parasympathodomiance.
PSYCHOLOGICAL
Veereshwar29 studied the mental health and adjustment problems of college

going girls, urban and rural. A sample of 406 girls in the age group of 18-20 years
was drawn from the undergraduate students of Meerut University by the sequential
list method. The sample was further divided into NSS and non-NSS groups. The
NSS group had 182 students and the non-NSS group had 224 students. The research
tools used were: 1) A Standardized Adjustment Inventory for College Students
(A.K.Sinha and R.P. Singh, 1974) and 2) a youth Problem Inventory (M.Verma ,
1975). The data were analysed calculating mean, SD, and ‘t’ test. The difference in
the adjustment of urban and rural girls was not significant in the area of health. Both
the groups showed quite satisfactory health adjustment. The non-NSS group showed
better emotional adjustment than the NSS group and the difference was statistically
significant.
Prasanna30 investigated certain mental health variables associated with high

and low achieving adolescents. The sample was made up to 1050 pupils (567 boys
and 483 girls) of IX Std. selected by applying the proportionate stratified sampling
technique. The tools used were: 1) Mental Health Status Scale (M. Abraham, and
K.C.B. Prasanna, 1981), 2) Composite Test of Generalised Achievement (A.S. Nair,
1971, M. Abraham and D. Seethamony), 3) Kerala University Group Test of
Intelligence (N.P.Pillai, A.S. Nair and J. Gourikutty Amma, 1968), 4) The Kerala
Non-verbal Group Test of Intelligence (A.S.Nair, 1971), 5) The Kerala Socio-
economic Scale (A.S. Nair, 1970), and 6) General Data Sheet. The main findings
were: All the mental health variables studied discriminated between high and low
achievers in most of the groups studied. High achievers had higher mean scores than
the low achievers for all the 16 mental health variables studied.
49
Mohebali31 studied the socio-psychological correlates of mental health in India

and Iran. The sample comprised 480 subjects (240 Indians and 240 Iranian). They
belonged to both the sexes and different levels of mental health. The PGI Health
Questionnaire developed by N.N. Wig and S.K. Verma was used to measure mental
health. The Frustration Scale by N.S. Chauhan and Govind Tiwari was used to
measure frustration. He concluded that the maximum resignation frustration was seen
among the Indians, whereas the maximum regression was seen among the Iranians.
The females tended to be aggressive, whereas the males were regressive and
resignative. The expression of frustration in aggression led to a balanced mental
status; whereas regression resulted in neuroticism. Adolescents both from India and
Iran had more aggression-frustration in comparison with their adult counter parts.
The Indian females had predominantly more aggression whereas Iranian females had
regression.
Abraham32 conducted a study to correlate certain psycho - social variables and

mental health status of University entrants of Kerala. The sample for the study
comprised 880 Pre-degree students (454 males and 426 females) from colleges
affiliated to the University of Kerala, selected on the basis of a proportionate stratified
sampling technique. The tools used were: Psychological Needs Inventory (M.
Abraham and P. Koodapuzha, 1979), Kerala Masculinity-Feminity Scale (A.S.Nair,
1978), Student’s Adjustment Inventory (M. Abraham and R. Jacob, 1979), Student’s
Activity Inventory (M.Abraham and R. Jacob, 1979), Family Integration Inventory
(M. Abraham and F. Fernadez, 1978), Mental Health Status Scale (M. Abraham and
B. Prasanna, 1981) and Kerala University Test of Intelligence for University Entrants
(A.S.Nair and Anandavalli Amma, 1972). This study revealed that twenty three of 25
Psycho-social variables, expect need for knowledge and new experience and
involvement in politics, showed significant correlations with mental health status
Sinha and Bhan33 investigated on mental health among the university students.
This study consisted of 259 male and 118 female students of Kurukshetra University
and 293 male engineering students. The students were administrated the Mas-low
Security-Insecurity Inventory. On the basis of their scores, the students were divided
into two groups; those who were below third decile were labeled as insecure and those
50
who were above the seventh decile were taken as secure. After the administration of
the tests the sample subjects were interviewed through a structured interview schedule
regarding the family background, socio-cultural background, inter-personal relations,
mode of expenses, involvement in the problems of sex, interest in academic problems,
aspiration level and vocational preferences and life view. They found that the
engineering boys were significantly superior in mental health to the University boys.
Magotra34 conducted a study on mental health as a correlate of intelligence,

education, academic achievement and socio-economic status. For the collection of
data the tools used were: General Intelligence Test (Joshi), Cultural Level
Questionnaire, Socio-economic Status Questionnaire, Health Condition Questionnaire
and Mental Health Inventory. The main findings of the study were: 1) The Girls
scored higher in the intelligence test and in the Socio-economic status scale then the
boys, 2) The Girls appear to possess better mental health and were capable of facing
the realities around them and were in a position to tide over the mental disequilibrium,
3) The mental health of the boys and the girls appeared to be considerably influenced
by the two factors, namely, intelligence and physical health, 4) The mental life of the
boys were dominated by the feelings of depression and neurotic behaviour.
Gupta35 conducted a study on Personality and mental health concomitance of

religiousness in the Tibetian students in the adolescent age group. The sample
consisted of 313 adolescents (251 boys and 62 girls) studying in high/higher
secondary Tibetian Schools. The tools employed for the collection of data were:
Sixteen Personality Factors Questionnaire (form – A) by Cattell, The Cornell Medical
and Religiosity Questionnaire, locally constructed by the investigator. The major
findings of the study were: The high religious groups were associated with the
measures of mental health, which were inadequacy, depression, anxiety, sensitiveness,
anger and tension. The males were more religious than females. The females were
more self–opinionated and imaginative than the males.
Dobalion et al.36 investigated to determine whether differences in likelihood of

diagnosis exist between the urban and rural nursing home residents for 8 common
medical conditions: 4 mental health conditions (depression, anxiety, Alzheimr’s, and
non-Alzheimers dementia ) and 4 physical health conditions (cancer, emphysema/
51
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart disease, and stroke/transient ischemic

attack). They used multivariate logistic regression to examine data derived from the
1996 Nursing Home Component of the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, a
multistage stratified probability sample of 815 nursing homes and 5899 residents,
representing 3.1 million individuals in the United States who spent one or more nights
in nursing homes during 1996. Residents in rural homes were less likely to be
diagnosed with depression compared to those in homes in large metropolitan areas,
and residents in homes in small metropolitan areas were less likely to have cancer
than those in large metropolitan areas.
Reijnereld et al.37 conducted a study on mental health through the promotion

of physical exercise and health. The subjects were 126 Turkish immigrants in
Netherlands consisting of middle aged men. Two low sessions per day for eight days
consisting of health education and physical exercises were given. Topics in health
education and focused on means to maintain a good health. It showed an improvement
in mental health (effect size: 0.38 SD 95% confidence intervals 0.03 to 0.73, P-0.03).
It concluded that health education and physical exercise improve mental state of
immigrants significantly.
C. Lee and Russel38 conducted to explore relationship between activity and

mental health cross-sectionallly and longitudinally in a large cohort of middle
Australian women. Women in their 40s participating in the Australian Longitudinal
Study on Women’s Health responded in 1996 (aged 40 – 45) and in 1999 (aged 43 –
48). Cross-sectional data were analyzed for 10,063 women and longitudinal data for
6472. Self-reports were used to categorize women into four categories of physical
activity at each time point as well as to define four physical activity transition
categories across the 3 year period. The outcome variables for the cross-sectional
analyses were the mental health component score (MCS) and Mental health subscales
of the Medical Outcomes Study Short form (SF – 36). The longitudinal analyses
focused on changes in these variables. Confounders included the physical health
component scale (PCS) of the SF – 36, marital status, body mass index (BMI) and life
events. The study revealed that physical activity is associated with emotional well-
being both cross-sectionally and longitudinally.
52
Thilagavathy39 analysed a study on academic achievement in relation to their

cognitive style, locus of control, self-esteem and mental health. The samples were the
Xth standard school boys (urban 279, rural 221) from south Arcot Revenue District.
Coopersmiths self esteem inventory and Trier Personality Inventory was used to
measure self esteem and mental health respectively and marks scored in the Xth board
examination was taken as academic achievement. From the results it was revealed
that urban students were significantly better in academic achievement (t = 11.88) and
self esteem (t = 7.63). However there was no significance on mental health (t = 0.63).
At the same time rural students were having more cognitive style than their counter
parts (t = 12.47).
Raj and Yadava40 conducted a study of mental health of higher secondary

students in relations to socio-economic status of 251 boys and 250 girls, and 13 to 19
from IX to XII of Azamgagash District (India) were measured and was found that
mental health and socio-economic status correlated positively significantly. Girl
students were mentally healthier than boy students on mental health whose socio-
economic status was controlled. Science students were mentally healthier than arts
students. Higher grades were mentally healthier than lower grades.
Vishwanatha Reddy and Nagarathanamma41 investigated certain components

of mental health status among rural and urban students from the point of identifying
students, who had potential for future development of mental health problems. The
sample of study comprised 400 high school going children, out of which 200 were
boys and 200 were girls. Mental health status was measured by using Thorpe and
Clark’s mental health Analysis Questionnaire (school form). The results revealed no
difference between urban and rural students with regard to their mental health status.
Boys and girls in the sample slightly differed from each other with regard to their
mental health status.
Johns and pate42 designed a study to investigate the relationship between

change in physical fitness level and changes in locus of control and self concept.
Participants of adult fitness programme had volunteered to participate in the study.
The subjects were tested for cardio vascular fitness. Locus of control was assessed
with the Rotten Interval - External scale and self-concept was quantified with
53
Tennessee self concept scale. The subjects had participated in the adult fitness
program, exercising three times a week for 12 weeks. Aerobic exercise was prescribed
at 65% to 75% maximal heart rate. The results revealed that (a) percentage of body fat
decreased (b) self concept increased significantly and (c) locus of control did not
change significantly.
Butik and David43 conducted a study to examine the relationship between

physical activity and multidimensional self concept among adolescents with various
levels of psychological and behavioral problems. Adolescents from public schools
(n=114) and psychological treatment centers (n=112 completed that
Multidimimensional Self-concept Scale (MSCS), which measures physical, affective,
social, competence, familial, academic and global domains of self-concept; the Seven-
Day physical Activity Recall (PAR); and inventories assessing perceptions about
physical activity levels and potential benefits. Co relational analysis showed that for
both groups, physical activity participations levels were positively correlated with the
self-concept.
Lion and Yann44 examined to determine the relationships between gender and
sport participation on the physical self-concept of Taiwanese undergraduate students.
The sample for the study consisted of 600 Taiwanese undergraduate students who
attended classes at six Taiwanese public and private universities and colleges, during
the full 2000 semester. Before distributing the instrument to the six selected
institutions, a pilot instrument was examined by 160 Taiwanese undergraduate
students who were selected randomly. Finally, a 27-item survey that was derived from
prior multi-dimension self-perception was developed to examine six specific physical
components. The instrument’s co-efficient alpha was between 0.78 and 0.86 and each
value of factor loading was above 60. A general linear model, with one way and two
way multivariate analysis of Taekwondo training program experienced less state and
trait anxiety, mood disturbance, and significantly improved levels of emotion
regulation.
Aggarwal Reena45 studied the relationship between sex and general self-
concept in grade IX students and concluded that the mean score of girls was greater
than those of boys in the case of identity, self-satisfaction, behavior, physical , moral,
54
ethical, personal, self-criticism, total self-concept and its instability dimension. The
study found the superiority of girls over boys in their role specific self-concept.
Akbar Hussain46 conducted a study so as to ascertain the impact of disability

on the development of self-concept. The study was designed to compare the level of
self-concept among the physically challenged adolescents with the normally
developed peers. Altogether 90 school going adolescents of grade IX and X aged 11-
16 were purposely selected from the three different schools of Delhi out of which 15
were males and 15 females in each category. Mohsin’s self-concept inventory was
administered on each subject. On the whole, the level of self-concept among the
physically challenged adolescents was found significantly lower than their normal
counterparts. Similarly the level of self-concept among the girls was also found
significantly lower than the boys in general, where as category wise significant
difference was found only in the case of blind subjects.
Amaladoss Xavier and Amalraj47 had taken up a study with the aim of
identifying the level of self –concept of postgraduate chemistry teachers and influence
of gender, community and length of experience over their self-concept. The survey
method was used. The stratified random sampling technique was used. The subjects
for investigation were the postgraduate teachers in higher secondary schools in
Kanyakumari revenue district. The self concept scale prepared by Dr. Mukta Rani
Rastogi was used for the investigation. It is a self-rating scale. The level of self-
concept of the teachers is found to be the average. The level of self-concept in terms
of gender and teaching experience is average. The level of self-concept of MBC
community teachers were found to be high and that of BC, OC and SC/ST is found to
be average. Hence it could be inferred that gender, community and teaching
experience do not cause any significant difference in the self-concept of the
postgraduate chemistry teachers.
Chakrabharthi. P.K, Debashri Banerjee48 conducted a study on gender

difference in self-concept among school students in Kolkata. The study was confined
to 567 students comprising of 300 boys and 267 girls of class VII and class VIII of 12
English medium schools of Kolkata. Children’s self-concept scale by Ahluwalia was
used for measuring the self-concept. It was concluded that boys and girls do differ
55
significantly in their total self-concept score. Boys have a higher self-concept than
girls. There is a significant difference in the self-concept of behavior, intellectual and
school status, physical appearance and attributes, anxiety and happiness and
satisfaction amongst boys and girls. Girls showed that they were more happy and
satisfied than boys.
Gandhi and Meenakshisundaram49 their main objective was to study the self-
concept of teacher trainees in relation of some familial and institutional variables.
The total sample consisted of 350 teacher trainees in randomly selected TTE of
Dindigul, Theni and Coimbatore districts in Tamil Nadu. The self-concept
questionnaire by saraswat was used to measure the self-concept of teacher trainees.
The result revealed that the nuclear family teacher trainees are significantly higher
than the joint family teacher trainees in self-concept. Trainees of urban teacher
training institutes are higher in self-concept than trainees of rural teacher training
institutes. The trainees of Aided teacher training institutes are higher in the self-
concept than the Government Institute counter parts in self-cocept. Trainees admitted
under normal norms are higher in self-concept than those admitted under special
quotas. The day scholars are higher than hostellers in self-concept. Trainees in men
institutes are significantly higher than trainees in co-educational institutes in self-
concept.
Hemsley, Rita Elizabeth50 made a longitudinal study on the academic self –

concept in adolescents of ninth and tenth graders. Domain specific self-concept
measures were used. The results showed that the achievement groups did not differ in
the prediction of self-concept. Regardless of the achievement group, the self-concept
caused by the score for the high self-concept subjects was significantly higher than
that of the low self-concept subjects.
Morries and Rose51 examined the effects of practiced schedule of muscle

relaxation on the measure of state of anxiety. A given sequence of muscle relaxation
exercise was carried out each day for a period of 8 weeks by a group of 10 volunteer
male students. Over the same period a matched group followed a daily schedule of 10
minutes rest. During the first and final weeks both groups completed a long version
of Spielberger’s a state and trait questionnaires and measures were taken for
56
respiration (Vol and VE) heart rate and galvanic skin response. Scores of both groups
showed almost identical profile with a significant decrease (P<0.05) in the A state
scores and a reduction although not significant in the physiological measures. The A
state scores taken at the beginning and the end of 8 week practice period showed no
change.
Samprasad et al.52 undertook the study of evaluation of the yoga on anxiety in

youth in relation to anxiety inducing areas of life. A total number of 356 subjects
comprising 243 males and 113 females with an average age of 18-19 years. A
comprehensive training programme in yoga and meditation for two hours everyday
for one month. Sinha’s Anxiety scale was administrated before and post training.
Differences in the pre and post training scores on anxiety were calculated and
analysed for finding out the effectiveness of training programmes. The results
indicated that anxiety got significant, (0.01) reduced impact of anxiety inducing
situation in type got (0.01) reduced.
Berger and Owen53 made an investigation on the influence of exercise made

and practice qualities on the stress reduction benefits of exercise. College students in
swimming, body conditioning, hatha yoga, fencing, exercise and lecture control
classes completed the profile of mood states and the state was unusually positive
initial moods. It was reported that there was tension and confusion after swimming,
only on the first day of testing. Participants in yoga, and aerobic activity that satisfied
three of the four mode requirements were significantly less anxious, tense, depressed,
angry, fatigued and confused after class than before on all three occasions. Results of
this study supported the possibility that exercise mode and practice requirements in
the proposed taxonomy moderate the stress reduction benefits.
Kocher and Pratab54 conducted a study on “Anxiety level and Yogic

practices”. Anxiety scale questionnaire of Cattell and Scheier was administrated to 56
students of summer camp certificate course of one month duration with a view to
judge the effect of yogic training on anxiety level. The results showed that yogic
practices included in the summer camp certificate course helped in reducing the level
of anxiety scores.
57
Crison55 and his associates investigated the preliminary investigation on the

use of yoga therapy for anxiety neurolysis. The effect for Savasana and Pranayama
practices on 18 patients of anxiety neurolysis has been presented in this report.
Psychological, Physiological and bio-chemical data taken before and after 4 weeks, 8
weeks of the yoga training programme indicated increase in erythrocyte
cholinesterage activity and decrease in VMA in 24 hours. Urine sample showed that
yogic practices have produced deep relaxation in the patients thus, helping them to get
better fast.
Kocher56 conducted a study on yoga practices as a variable in neurotism,

anxiety and hostility. 37 subjects (20 in the experimental group and 17 in the control
group) were administered the N.S.Q., A.S.W. and H.D.H.Q. tests. The experimental
group was given yoga training for a period of 9 months. Tests were given twice to
observe the changes as a result of yogic practices. Results on the whole showed that
there was significant reduction in total neurotism, anxiety, and general hostility scores
and the individual can achieve more emotional balance when compared to the control
group.
Tucker57 conducted a study on muscular strength and in relationship with

selected psychological traits. He took males as the subjects for this study. The body
catthekis scale, Eysenek personality inventory and Tennesse self concept scale were
employed to assess personality. Muscular strength was measured by means of free
weights in bench press and squat. Because of the effect of body weight on muscular
strength body weight was controlled statistically more satisfied with their body parts
and processes, less emotionally liable and anxious, more outgoing sociable and
impulsive, more confident and satisfied with themselves then their muscular weaker
counter parts. All of the psychological traits were associated significantly with
performance on the strength measure. The results indicate forty-three percent of the
patients showed good response, while six percent of the patients did not show any
change. He came to the conclusion that Shavasana is very useful for anxiety states. It
is contra-indicated for depressive stated in the beginning of the treatment.
Sabu and Bhole58 made a study to explore the effect of yogic training
programme on psychomotor performance. The study was conducted on male subjects
58
(age twenty five to forty-five years) of teacher training certificate course who had
undergone three weeks training in yoga education. Apart from the training course
high pitched omker recitation was also given for the subjects. As part of the testing
programme, Bhatia intelligence test battery was given to the students. Psychomotor
performance of subjects was assessed by way of ability to make the dots on the chart
paper of Mcdought Schuster apparatus. They found that training programmes
increased psychomotor performance involving speed and accuracy. Shoulder stand
strengthen the heart and allows the blood to flow freely to the organs in the upper part
of the body. They can also help reducing ailments such as asthma or bronchitis. In
addition, these inverted positions also result in increased circulation to the thyroid
gland, stimulating its function in regulating the body’s metabolism and increasing an
over all feeling of vitality.
Joshi59 found that Pranayama is an ideal programme for training of the mind
and promoting restraint of the animal nature. He conducted an experiment with the
criminals of central jail. They were given training in asanas and pranayama for a
period of three months. A remarkable change was observed in the attitude of the
participants, clashes between the convicts were reduced, and pessimism, motional
outbursts and irritability was copiously reduced. The important observation of the jail
authorities was that a feeling of self-confidence, co-operative attitude and poise was
evident in the behaviors of those who had completed the course. Thus, he showed
that pranayama could bring about remarkable changes in one’s personality by
establishing an inner-outer balance.
Gharote60 conducted the physiological study of short term yogic practices on

the adolescent high school boys. The yogic training tends to contribute to calmness of
mind and stability of emotional behaviour. He further found that the effect of training
was retained at least for another period of two months even when the practices were
discontinued. It leads to the assumption that a continued practiced of yogic exercises
may contribute to established pattern of emotional stability.
Pedro61 has conducted a study over eight years on the effect of relaxation
therapy on seventy three patients of anxiety, neurosis and depression. The results
indicate that forty-three percent of the patients showed very good improvement, fifty-
59
two percent of the patients showed good response, while six percent of the patients
did not show any change. He came to the conclusion that Shavasana is very useful for
anxiety states. It is contra-indicated for depressive stated in the beginning of the
treatment.
Eysenck62 has postulated that extroverts are characterized by a predominance

of cortical ‘inhibition’ resulting in diminished activation and a subsequent lowering of
the individual’s sensitivity to sensory stimuli. The difference in activation has also
been shown to be susceptible to time of day effects, where there is often a reversal in
the level of activation, the performance of the extroverts starts improving as the day
continues as indicated by Colquherin and Corcorn. According to Yerke Dodson, it is
possible that the accumulative effects of stimulation during the day will elevate the
general level of arousal in the extrovert and since performance seems to relate to
arousal in a curvilinear fashion. It is likely that a performance increment be found in
the extroverts should show little change or a decrement in performance level as
compared to the morning sessions.
Brady63 studied the relationship of introversion extroversion to physical

persistence. The relationship of introversion, extroversion to the amount of work
decrement was investigated on 72 male freshmen at the university who were selected
on the basis of the Maudsley personality inventory. Introverts and extroverts differed
significantly in work decrement and persistence on some tasks but other findings were
inconsistent with the hypothesized results.
Claridge64 and others, made an attempt to analysis the relationship between

psycho-physiological variables connected to human performance and personality
variables extroversion and neuroticism there was much evidence indicating that
introverts produce superior performance to the extroverts on simple monotonous
recognition tasks, the former possessing lower threshold for psychological activity
than the extroverts, coupled with a tendency to exhibit higher degree of cardiac and
electro dermal activity.
Leithwood65 conducted the study on the personality characterists of three

groups of weight trainers. For the purpose of this study 15 men who were engaged
60
in supplementary training for competitive sport, 15 men who were trained to develop
their physiques and 15 who were trained to improve competitive lifting performance
were given Cattell’s 16 PF Questionnaire (from A). Comparisons between groups by
analysis of variance failed to show any differences in personality characteristics.
Kirkaldy66 conducted the study on the analysis of relationship between psycho

physiological variables connected to human performance and the personality variables
on extroversion and neuroticisms. In this study he concluded that no significant
difference exists along the personality dimension. But when the team sports were
classified into offensive, centre and defensive players, it was found that males in
attacking position were substantially higher in psychoticism (tough minded, dominant
aggressive) and extroversion, compared to mid-field players.
Clanney67 conducted a study on a comparison of personality characteristics,

self-concepts and academic aptitude of selected college men classified according to
performance on test of physical fitness. He divided college men into high fitness and
low fitness groups on the basis of AAHPER Youth Fitness Test Battery. While
comparing their personality characteristics, as measured by Cattell’s 16 P.F>
Questionnaire, self concept and academic attitudes, he concluded that high fitness
group appeared to be more group dependent while low fitness group was more self-
sufficient. Also the subjects in high fitness group appeared to be more trusting and
free of jealousy whereas, the low fitness group appeared to be more suspicious and
self opinionated.
61
REFERENCES
1
K.N. Udupa Vedpatel, “Physiological and Biochemical Changes Following
the Practice of Some Yogic and Yogic Exercise”, Journal of Research in Indian
Medicine, 10:2 (1975), p.91.
2
S.M. Vaidya and M.S. Pansare, “Effect of Yoga on Pulse and Blood
Pressure”, Indian Journal of Physiological and Pharmacology, 30:5 (1986), p.8.
3
M. Prasad, and R.V. Sinha, “Yoga Therapy for Hypertension”, Second
National Conference on Yoga Therapy. Diabetes, Hypertension and Cardio-
Vascular Disease. (New Delhi Central Research Ins. Tilter for Yoga 1994), p.34.
4
K.S. Gopal et al., “The Effect of Yogasanana on Muscular Tone and Cardio
Respiratory Adjustments”, Yoga Life, 6:5, (May 1975), p.3.
5
Seshien L.S., “Effect of pranayama and transcendental meditation on the
pulse rate and blood pressure of the male students of the sourastra college”, Madurai
Unpublished M.phil thesis, Alagappa University, (1988).
6
K.S Gopal et al., “Effect of Yagasana and Pranayama on Blood Pressure,
Pulse Rate and Some Respiratory Functions”. Indian journal of Physiology
pharmacy, 17(1973), pp.272-276.
7
K.N Makwana et.al., “Effect of short term Yoga practice on Ventilatory
Function Test”, Indian Journal of Physiological Pharma, (1988), 32:203-208.
8
J.P.Oak and M.V. Bhole, “Pulse Rate during and after Bhaya Kumbaka with
Difference conditions of Abdominal Wall”, Yoga Mimamas, Vol.I, XXII: 3&4; 71-
76, (1983-84), p.31
9
A.R. Joshi and M.S. Pansare, “Effect of Yoga Pulmonary Functions Tests”,
Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, 30:5 (1986), p.9.
10
R Bhargavaet et al., “Autonomic responses to breath holding and its
variations following pranayama”. Indian Journal of Physiology andPharmacology,
32(4) (Oct-Dec 1988), pp.257-264.
62
11
D.A Birkel and L.Edgren, “Hatha Yoga: Improved Vital Capacity of College
Students”, Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, 6(6)(Nov 2000),
pp.55-56.
12
Madan Mohan et al., “Effect of Yoga Type Breathing on Heart Rate and
Cardiac Axis of Normal Subjects”, Indian Journal of Physiological Pharma, (1986)
30: (1986), pp.334-339.
13
M.S. Nayar et al., “Effects of Yogic Exercises on Human Physical
Efficiency”, Indian Journal of Medicine Research (1975), 63: pp.1369-1375.
14
K.N. Udupa et al., “A Comparative Study on the Effect of Some Individuals
Yogic Practives in Normal Persons”, Indian Journal of Medical Research 63,
(1975), pp.1066- 1071.
15
D.Sakthignanavel, “Effect of continuous running, yogic pranayama, and
combination of continuous running and yogic pranayama exercise on cardio-
respiratory endurance, selected physiological and psychological variables”
Unpublished doctoral dissertation, Annamalai University, September, 1995.
16
A. Chandrabose, “Therapeutic effect of yoga practice on patients suffering
from bronchial asthma”, Unpublished Medical project. Pondicherry university, 1994.
17
K.N. Udpa el al., “Physiological and Biochemical Studies on the Effect of
Yogic and Certain other Exercises’, Indian Journal of Medicines Research, (1975).
18
A. S. Mahajan, K.S. Reddy, and U.Sachdeva, “Yogic Lifestyle Intervention
Lipid Profile of Coronary Risk Subjects”, Indian Hear J., 51 (1) (1999), pp.37-40.
19
Harinath, et al., “Effects of Hatha Yoga and Omkar Meditation of
Cardiorespiratory Performance, Psychologic Profile, and Melatonin secretion”,
Journal of Alternative and Complementaty Medicine, 10 (2), (2004), p.261-268.
20
Swahney et al., “Coronary Artery Disease Regression Through Life Style
Changes: Vegetarianism, Moderate Exercise, Stress Management Through Rajayoga
Meditation”. Defence Institute of Physiology & Allied Sciences, New Delhi. (1999),
63
21
B.K. Sahay, et al., “Biochemical Parameters Normal Volunteers before and
after Yogic Practices”. Indian Journal of Medical Research, 76 (1982), pp.144-148.
22
J. Bowman et al., “Effects of Aerobic training and Yoga on the Baroreflex in
Healthy Elderly Persons”, European Journal of Clinical Investigation, 27(5),
pp.443-449.
23
J.A. Blumenthal, et al., “Cardiovascular and Behavioural Effects of Aerobic
Exercise Training in Healthy Older Men and Women”, Journal of Gerontology,
(1989), 44(5), pp.147-157.
24
Chinnaswamy, “Effects of Asanas and Physical Exercise Selected
Physiological and Biochemical Variables”, Unpublished M.Phil. Dissertation,
Alagappa University, Karaikudi, July, 1992.
25
Udupa, K.N., et al., “Comparative Biochemical Studies on Meditation”,
Indian. J. Med. Res., 63(1974), p.12.
26
Udupa, K.N., et al., “Physiological and Biochemical studies on the effect of
yogic and certain other exercises”. Indian J. Med. Res., 63(1975), p.4.
27
Karambelkar, P.V., et al., ”Effect of yogic practices on cholesterol level in
females”. Yoga Mimamsa, 20 (1978), pp.1-8.
28
Santha Joseph, K., et al., “Study of some physiological and biochemical
parameters in subjects undergoing yogic training”. Indian. J. Med. Res., 74(1981),
pp. 120-124.
29
P. Veereshwar, “A Study of Mental Health and Adjustment Problems of
College-going Girls, Urban and Rural”, Fourth Survey of Resarch in Education
1983-88, Vol.1, (1991), pp.454-455.
30
K.C.B. Prasanna, “A Study of Certain Mental Health Variables Associated
with High and Low Achieving Adolescents”, Fourth Survey of Research in
Education 1983-88, Vol.1 (1991), pp.418-419.
64
31
A. Mohebali, “Socio-Psychological Correlates of Mental Health in India and
Iran”, Fourth Survey of Research in Education 1983-88, Vol.1, (1991), p.244.
32
M. Abraham, “A study of Certain Psychosocial Correlates of Mental Health
Status of University Entrants of Kerala”, Fourth Survey of Research in Education
1983-88, Vol.II, (1991), p.1351.
33
A.K. Sinha and R.N. Bhan, “Mental Health in University Students”, Third
Survey of Research in Education 1978-83, (1987), pp.424-425.
34
H.P. Magotra, “Mental Health as a Correlate of Intelligence, Education,
Academic Achievement and Socio-economic Status”, Third Survey of Research in
Education 1978-83, (1987), pp.373-374.
35
A. Gupta, “Personality and Mental Health Concomitant of Religiousness in
the Tibetan Students in the Adolescent Age Group”, Third Survey of Research in
Education 1978-1983, (1987), p.130.
36
A. Dobalion, et al., “Diagnosed metal and physical health conditions I the
united states nursing home population: differences between urban and rural facilities”.
Journal Rural Health. , 19 (4). (2003).
37
S.A. Reijnereld, et al., “Promotion of health and physical activity improves
the mental health of Turkish Immigrants in the Netherlands”. Journal of Epidemiol
Community Health, (2003), p.57.
38
C. Lee and A. Russell, “Effects of Physical activity on Emotional well-being
among older Australian women: cross sectional and longitudinal analyses.” Journal
of psychosomastic Responses, 54 (2) (2003).
39
Thilagavathy, “A study of academic achievement of adolescents relation to
their cognitive style, locus of control, self esteem and mental health”, Unpublished
Ph.D., Thesis, Annamalai University, 1995.
40
K. Raj and V.C. Yadava, “A study of mental health of Higher Secondary
Student in relation to socio-economic status”, Journal of Psychological Researchers,
37 (1993), pp.39-45.
65
41
S. Viswanathan Reddy and B. Nagarathanamma, “Mental Health Status
among Rural and Urban Students – A Comparative Study”, Journal of the Indian
Academy of Applied Psychology 19 (1993), pp.25-29.
42
Johns and pate, Jane, “The effect if increasing physical fitness level on locus
of control, self concept and reported changes in life style”, Unpublished Ph. D
Dissertation, University of Georgia, 1983.
43
Butki & David, Brian, “The Relationship between Physical Activity and
Multidimensional Self–Concept among Adolescents”, Dissertation Abstract
International. 59 (5), 1998.
44
Lion, Yann and Jih, “Effects of Gender and Type of Sport Participation on
Taiwanese Undergraduate Students Physical Self-Concept Dissertation”, Abstract
International, 62: (3) 2001.
45
Aggarwal Reena, “The Relationship between Sex and general Self-Concept
in Grade IX Students”, Bharatya Shiksha Sdosh Partrika, Vol. 13, (1994), pp.17-22
46
Akbar Hussian, “Self – Concept of Physically Challenged Adolescents”,
Journal of the Indian Academy of Applied Psychology, Vol.32, No.I, (2006),
pp.4-6.
47
Amaladoss Xavier.S,S,J and Amalraj.A, “Self – Concept of post-graduate
Chemistry Teachers”, Meston Journal of research in Education, Vol-1, Issue No.2,
(2002), pp.37-40.
48
Chakrabarti.P.K., Debasri Banerjee , “A Study of gender difference in self-
concept among school students in Kolkata. The Primary Teacher”, Vol.XXX, No.
1-2, January & April 2005, pp.85-90.
49
Gandhi.C. Meenakshisundaram, “A study of self-concept of Teacher
Trainees in relation to some Familial and Institutional Variables”. Meston Journal of
Education, Vol. 3, Issue no.1. April 2004, pp.17-18.
50
Hamsley, Rita Elisabeth, “Academic Self-concept in adolescents: Causes and
conscequences”. DAI, Vol.52, No.12. (Jun 1992), pp.42-92.
66
51
P.R. Morris and C. Rose, “Progressive Relaxation to Reduce State Anxiety”,
Anxiety in sport, Erwin Apitizsch (Budapest: PEPSAC, 1983), p.43.
52
Samprasad D. Vinod. et al., “Evaluation of Effect of Yoga and Anxiety in
youth in Return of Anxiety”, Inducing Areas of Life Yogaminansa Vol.30, (1991),
pp.25-35.
53
Bonnie G. Berger and David R. Owen, “Stress Reduction and Mood
Enhancement infavour Exercise Modes: Swimming, Body conditioning, Hatha Yoga
and Fencing”, Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport, 59:159 (1988).
54
H.C.Kocher and V. Pratab, “Anxiety level and Yogic practices”,
Yogamimamsa, XV:1, (1972), pp.11-16.
55
M.C. Crisan, R. Nagendra and H.C. Nagendra, “ Preliminary Investigations
on the use of Yoga Therapy for anxiety Neurolysis”, Yoga Report, VKYOCTAS/013
/(1984), pp.1-20.
56
Kocher, Conducted a study on “Yoga practices as a variable in Neurotism,
Anxiety and Hostility”, Yogamimamsa, XV:2 (1972), pp.37-46.
57
I.A. Tucker, “Muscular Strength and Mental Health”, Journal of
Personality and Social Psychology Vol.46(6)1983), pp.355-1360.
58
P.J. Sabu and M.V. Bhole, “Effect of Three Weeks Yogic Training
Programme on Psychomotor Performance”, Yoga Mimamsa 22 (April 1983), pp.5-9.
59
L.S. Joshi, Breathing to Long Life and Good Health, (Delhi: Orient paper
backs, 196), p.176.
60
M.L. Gharote, “Physiological study of short term yogic practices on the
adolescent high school boys” Yoga Mimamsa 14 (April 1981), p.97.
61
Pedro de Vicente, “Role of Yoga Therapy in Anxiety Neurosis and
Depression”, Yoga Mimamsa-26 (July 1987), p.2.
67
62
H.J.Eysenck, The Biological Basis of Personality, (Springfiled:
C.C.Thomas, 1967), p.90.
63
Paul R.J.Brady, “The Relationship of Introversion Extroversion to Physical
Persistence,” Completed Research in Health, Physical Education and Recreation, 9,
(1966), p.39.
64
Claridge, “The excitation – inhibition balance in neurotics, 1963 cited by
Bruce D.Kirkclady, “An Analysis of the relationships between psycho-physiological
variables connected to human performance and the personality variables extroversion
and neuroticism,” International Journal of Sports Psychology, (March 1980), p.276.
65
Kenneth A. Leithwood, “The Personality Characteristics of Three Groups of
Weight Trainers,” Completed Research, 10, (1968), p.14.
66
Brue D. Kirklady, “An Analysis of Relationship Between Psycho
Physiological Variables Connected to Human Performance and the Personality
Variables on Extroversion and Neuroticism,” International Journal of Sports
Psychology, (March 1980), pp.276-289.
67
Byron Nelson McClanney, “A Comparison of Personality Characteristics,
Self Concepts and Academic Aptitude of Selected College Men Classified According
to Performance on Test of Physical Fitness”, Dissertation Abstracts International,
30 (October 1969), p.1425.
Chapter III
METHODOLOGY
In this chapter, the procedures followed towards the selection of subjects,

experimental design and procedure, selection of variables, selection of tests,
instrument reliability, orientation of testing personnel, calibration of instruments,
collection of blood sample, estimation of biochemical variables, test administration of
physiological variables, description of psychological tools, orientation of subjects,
administration of questionnaire, training programme, collection of data and statistical
techniques have been explained.
Selection of Subjects
In the present study, forty male students were selected at random by lot
sampling technique, from Pope John Paul II College of Education, which is situated in
the Union Territory of Pondicherry. Twenty male students were assigned as
experimental group and another 20 male students were assigned as control group
during the academic year 2007-2008. They were the students of B.A., B.Ed., B.Sc.,
B.Ed., and B.Com., B.Ed., Integrated Course and their age ranged from 18 to 23
years. All the students were directed to assemble in a multipurpose hall to seek their
willingness, to act as subjects. The investigator explained to them the purpose,
nature, importance of the experiment and the procedure to be employed to collect
their blood sample. Further the role of the subjects during the experimentation and the
testing procedure were also explained to them in detail. The physical conditions of
the subjects were assessed by a qualified medical practitioner and all the subjects
were healthy and normal. They were requested to co-operate and participate actively
for the same.
Experimental Design and Procedure
The subjects selected for the present study were divided randomly into two
equal groups called control and experimental, consisting of 20 male students in each
group. 12 weeks of yogasanas, pranayama and meditation training were given to the
69
experimental group. The control group were not allowed to participate in any of the
training programes, except their routine physical education classes.
Measurements for the variables were taken at the beginning (pre - test) and at
the end of the experimental period, after twelve weeks (post - test) the data were
collected for all the variables from both control and experimental groups, for five
days. During this period the subject were not allowed to participate in any training.
Selection of variables
In the present study, the investigator referred different relevant literature and
consulted with experts in biochemistry, physiology and psychology to identify most
suitable variables. The variables selected are furnished below.
Experimental Variables
The experimental variables used in the present study were:
a) Biochemical Variables
i. Blood glucose
ii. Total cholesterol
iii. Triglycerides
iv. High density lipoprotein (HDL)
v. Low density lipoprotein (LDL)
vi. Very low density lipoprotein (VLDL)
b) Physiological Variables
i. Vital capacity
a) Forced vital capacity (FVC)
b) Forced expiratory volume in first second (FEV1)
c) Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR)

70
ii. Blood Pressure
a) Systolic blood pressure
b) Diastolic blood pressure
iii. Pulse rate
iv. Rate pressure product
v. Respiratory pressure
a) Maximum expiratory pressure
b) Maximum inspiratory pressure
c) Breath holding time
c) Psychological Variables
i. Mental health
ii. Self – concept
iii. Personality
Selection of Tests
The test used to quantify the biochemical, physiological and psychological
variables are given in table 1.

71
Table 1
Test for Biochemical, Physiological and Psychological Variable
Sl.
Variables Method/Equipment/Tools
No.
a. Biochemical Variables
Computerized auto analyzer
i. Blood glucose RANDOX-IMOLA
ii. Total cholesterol -do-
iii. Triglycerides -do-
iv. High density lipoprotein -do-
v. Low density lipoprotein -do-
vi. Very low density lipoprotein -do-
b. Physiological Variables
i. Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) Micro Spirometry
ii. Forced expiratory volume in -do-
first second (FEV1)
iii. Peak expiratory flow rate -do-
Sphygmomanometer and
iv. Systolic blood pressure
Stethoscope
v. Diastolic blood pressure -do-
vi. Pulse rate Manual
vii. Rate pressure product RPP = HR X SP X 102
viii. Maximum expiratory pressure Mercury manometer
ix. Maximum inspiratory pressure -do-
x. Breath holding time Stop watch
c. Psychological Variables
i. Mental health Peter Becker
ii. Self – concept Muktha Rani Rastogi
iii. Personality Eysenck Personalty Inventory

72
Instrument Reliability
The instruments like Computerized Pulmonary Function Spirometer, Mercury

Manometer, Sphygmomanometer, Sterhoscope, Forceps, Stop Watch, Nose Clip,
Weighing Mechine, Stadiometer and other instruments used for biochemical variables
analysis were all manufactured by standard companies. The researcher conducted his
research work in the Medical Research Institute laboratory, the instruments were
standardized and reliable.
Orientation of the Subjects
The investigator was presented along with the subjects of control group and
experimental group during the experimentation of both pre test and post test. The
procedure for conducting the tests and the method of scoring were specifically
explained as well as demonstrated by the investigator to enrich the tester’s reliability.
The biochemical and physiological variables were measured in Biochemistry and
Physiology departments of Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education
and Research (JIPMER), laboratory respectively which is situated at Puducherry.
Calibration of Instruments
All equipments and reagents were purchased from standard companies and
they were maintained in good condition and caliberated daily.
The blood samples were analyzed in the clinical laboratory of biochemistry,

JIPMER, Puducherry. For the biochemical parameter estimation autoanalyser and
respective reagents for each parameters were used. Further the physiological
variables were tested in the research laboratory of Department of Physiology,
JIPMER, Puducherry. Sophisticated and computerized equipments were used to
assess the physiological variables.
Collection of Blood Sample
Five milliliter of venous blood was collected from each subject, through
venipuncture by using disposable syringes. Then the blood was allowed to clot for
20-30 minutes and the serum was separated by centrifuging 3000 rpm for 10 minutes.
73
All the chosen biochemical variables were estimated by using serum in computerized
auto analyser RANDOX-IMOLA.
The auto analyser has two trays namely sample and reagent tray.
Approximately 400 samples could be analysed at a time for different parameters. It
aspirates the serum from the sample tray and simultaneously it aspirates the
corresponding reagent based on the program. It performs the analysis and the results
will be displayed in the computer screen.
Estimation of Biochemical Variables
Estimation of Blood Glucose (GOD/POD Method)
Method
Glucose estimation was based on trinders method in which glucose oxidase

(GOD) and Peroxidase (POD) enzymes were used along with the chromogen
4 – aminoantipyrine and phenol. The method was one step, simple and rapid.
Glucose was oxidized by the enzyme GOD to give D-gluconic acid and
hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide in the presence of the enzyme POD Oxidizes
Phenol, which combined with 4-Amino- antipyrine to produce a red colored
Quinoneimine Dye. The intensity of the color produced was proportional to glucose
concentration in the sample – 556λ1.
Reagents used
Enzyme reagent: GOD and POD
Calculation
A of (T)
Glucose Concentration in mg % = x 100
A of (S)
S/ Conversion factor
mmo1/1 = mg % x 0.0555
74
Estimation of Cholesterol. (Enzymatic Calorimetric Test (CHOD-PAP))
Method
Cholesterol and its esters were released from lipoproteins by detergents.

Cholesterol esterase hydrolized the esters and H2 O2 was formed in the subsequent
enzymatic oxidation of cholesterol – by – cholesterol oxidase2.
Reagents used
a. Pipes buffer, PH.6.9 : 90 mmo1/1
b. Phenol : 26 mmo1/1
c. Cholesterol oxidase : 200 U/1
d. Cholesterol esterase : 300 U/1
e. Peroxidase : 1250 U/1
f. 4 – Aminoantipyrine : 0.4 mmo1/1
g. Cholesterol : 200mg/d1 or 5.17 mmo1/1
Calculation
∆ A sample
X Standard Conc. = Cholesterol / Conc
∆ A standard
Standard Concentration : 200mg / d1 or 5.14 mmol/1

75
Estimation of Triglycerides (Tg). (Enzymatic Colorimetric Test (GPO-PAP))
Method
The Triglycerides were enzymatically hydrolyzed to glycerol3.
Reagent used
a. Pipes buffer, PH : 7.250 mmo1/1
b. P. Cholorophenole : 2 mmo1/1
c. Lipoprotein lipase : 150000 U/1
d. Glycerokinase : 800 U/1
e. Glycrerol-3-P-oxindase : 4000 U/1
f. Peroxidase : 440 U/1
g. 4 – Aminoantipyrine : 0.7mmo1/1
h. ATP : 0.3mo1/1
i. Glycerol equivalent to a
Concentration of : 200mg/d1/2.28mmo1/1
Calculation
∆ A sample
x Standard Conc. = Triglyceride Conc.
∆ A standard
Standard Concentration: 200mg / d1/ or 5.14 mmo1/1

76
Estimation of High Density of Lipoproteins (HDL)
(HDL-Cholesterol Precipitating Reagent PEG-PAP method)
Method
The Chlylomicrons, very low- density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein

were precipitated by addition of phosphotungstic acid and magnesium chloride. After
configuration the supernatant fluid contained the high-density lipoprotein fraction,
which was assesed for high-density lipoprotein cholesterol with the cholesterol
reagent4.
Reagents Used
a. Phospholtungstate : 0.3 ml
b. Magnesium chloride : 0.3 ml
c. Pipes buffer, PH6.9 : 90 mmol/l
d. Phenol : 26 mmol/l
e. Cholesterol oxidase : 200 u/l
f. Cholesterol esterase : 300 U/l
g. Peroxidase : 1250 U/l
h. 4- Aminoantipyride : 0.4 mmol/l
i. Cholesterol : 200 mg/dl
Calculation
Abs (T) x N x 2 Where, N = 50
Abs (S) x 2 = Dilution factor of the sample

77
Estimation of Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL)
Method
Low-density lipoproteins is calculated by using Fredwoal’s formula from

triglycerides, HDL and VLDL. The calculated parameters are as follows5.
Tg
LDL = Total Cholesterol – HDL
5
or
LDL = Total Cholesterol – (HDL+VLDL)
Estimation of Very Low Density Lipoproteins (VLDL)
Method
Very low density lipoproteins is calculated from triglycerides (enzymatic6

Colorimetric test, GPO-PAD). The calculated parameters are given below.
Tg
Formula: VLDL = Triglycerides
5
78
Figure - III
1.Analysing of Biochemical Variables in serum by Computerised fully

automated clinical Autoanalyser - RANDOX-IMOLA – BT294 QY UK - 2008.
(Discrete Randox Access Analyser – Open Type)7.
Test Administration of Physiological Variables
Vital Capacity
Purpose: To assess the Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Rxpiratory Volume in
First Second (FEV1), Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) of the lung.
Equipment used: Micro spirometer, Disposable cardboard moth pieces, sprit and
cotton.
Procedure: The subject was asked to sit comfortably on the chair and to take a
maximum inspiration away from the spirometer. Then he was asked to hold the
mouthpiece between the lips to create a good seal and expire as fast and as hard as
possible for as long as possible until no breath was left.
79
Once again he was asked to hold the mouth piece between the lips to create a
good seal and breath in and out for 2-3 tidal breaths. Then to inhale rapidly to
maximum capacity. Expire as fast and as hard as possible for as long as possible until
no breath was left.
The subject had to be encouraged continuously to ensure the best effort. For
an acceptable test, the effort should be maximal smooth and cough free and exhalation
time at least 6 seconds. Each manoeuvre had to be performed thrice and the best
value out of the three was noted. Before going to the next subject, the disposable
mouth piece was to be changed. When the subject was ready to blow out, the unit had
to be switched on and reset using the Reset switch.
Scoring: Forced vital capacity, Forced expiratory volume first second and peak
expiratory flow rate values were to be immediately observed from spirometer. Values
from the best of three similar readings were then taken.
Figure - IV
Recording of Physiological Variables by using Computerized Pulmonary

Function Tests (Spirometer) made in England - 2004.8
80
Figure - V
Recording of Vital Capacity by using Computerized Pulmonary Spirometer
Blood Pressure
Purpose: To measure the systolic pressure (SP), diastolic pressure (DP), and Rate
pressure product (RPP) of the subject.
Equipment used: A standardized sphygmomanometer and a stethoscope.
Procedure: The subject was asked to sit comfortably on the chair before the
measurement was taken. The cuff of the sphygmomanometer was wrapped around
the arm evenly with the lower edge approximately one inch above the anticubital
space. It was made sure that the stethoscope was making in firm contact with the
skin. The cuff was inflated until the artery was fully collapsed to the extent that no
arterial pulse could be heard. The cuff pressure was then slowly released as the
investigator watched the gauge. When sound of the blood flow (Korotko sound)
became audible the reading in millimeters of mercury (mm of Hg) at that instant was
recorded as the systolic pressure.
81
The pressure was further released gradually as the sound of the pulse changed
in intensity and quality. The index of the diastolic pressure was noted in mm of Hg,
when the heart beat sound completely ceased.
Scoring: Systolic pressure (SP) was applied by means of the pressure ball, and with
the left hand palpating the pulse, the pressure was continued for about a further 10
mm Hg, above the point of pulse disappearance. The stethoscope was applied to the
brachial artery and releasing the pressure in the rubber compressor bag slowly and
evenly by means of slight movement of the release screw of the control value, care
was taken to listen intently for the blood flow sounds.
Diastolic Pressure (DP): The process was continued to release the pressure and the
tone and volume of the sounds changed and finally disappeared in a faint murmur.
Rate Pressure Product (RPP): Rate pressure product was calculated as the product
of heart rate (HR) and systolic pressure (SP) was divided by 100 (RPP = HR X
SP X 10).
Figure - VI
The Investigator is checking the Blood Pressure, both the Systolic and Diastolic
Pressure of the Subjects
82
Respiratory Pressure
Purpose: To assess the maximum expiratory pressure, and maximum inspiratory
pressure of maintaining breath hold.
Equipment used: Mercury manometer, sprit, cotton, forceps and stop watch.
Procedure: The subject was asked to sit on a chair comfortably and the equipment
height was adjusted to the subject head level. Maximum expiratory pressure was
determined by asking the subjects to blow against a mercury column after taking in a
full breath. (i.e to TLC) and to maintain to column at the maximum level for about 2
seconds.
Maximum inspiratory pressure was determined by asking the subject to
perform maximal inspiratory effort against the mercury column after breathing out
fully ( ic to RV). The maximum inspiratory pressure that could be maintained for
about 2 seconds was noted. The lips were secured tightly around the mouth piece
with the help of fingers to ensure that there was no leak. Care was taken to see that
the subject did not use oral muscles or tongue to develop pressure or to block the
tubing. The mouth piece made of glass helped us to observe that the subject
performed the maneuver properly.
Scoring: Maximum expiratory pressure, Maximum inspiratory pressure of
maintaining breath holding values were recorded three times for each subject. The
values were taken from the best of three similar readings.

83
Figure - VII
Recording of Respiratory pressure by using Mercury Manometer (Maximum

Expiratory pressure and Maximum Inspiratory pressure
Breath Holding Time
Purpose: To assess the breath holding capacity of the subject
Equipmennt: Nose clip and a stop watch
Procedure: The subject was asked to sit comfortably on the chair, while assessing
the breath holding time. The left arm was to be kept on the right side of the chest and
then the subject was asked to take a deep breath (Inhale) and the nose clip was
applied tightly on the nose and lips were tightly closed and there should not be any
leakage of air from the mouth as well as from the nose (inhale or exhale). The subject
was told to maintain the breath holding as long as he could. If he felt it difficult to
84
maintain the breath holding, immediately he was asked to take the hand from the
chest. The time in seconds up to which the subject breath holding time was taken for
consideration.
Scoring: Breath holding capacity was recorded with the help of a stop watch three
times for each subject. The values were taken from the best for three similar readings.
Figure -VIII
Recording of Breath Holding Time by using a Stop Watch and a Nose Clip
85
Test Administration of Psychological Variables
1. Trier Personality Inventory for Mental Health
Description
The Trier Personality inventory was devised by Peter Becker and it was used
to assess mental health of the subjects. The Trier Personality Inventory contains 120
statements and these statements were categorized into 9 sub-areas. Among these
nine sub-areas, one of them was mental health. In Trier Personality Inventory there
was a section contaning 20 statements to assess the mental health. These statements
were given in a jumbled order and they include both positive and negative statements.
These 20 statements were selected separately and these statements constituted the
Trier Mental Health Inventory (TMHI) for the purpose of this investigation. This was
a four Point scale and each statement had four alternative responses namely;
‘Always’, ‘Often’ ‘Sometimes’, and ‘Never’.
The reliability of the Inventory by the test-retest method was found to be 0.83.
Since the reliability value was high, the inventory in its original form was made use of
in this investigation. A copy of the inventory was given in the appendix VII.
Scoring
For the positive statements the four answers were given a weightage of 4 to 1
respectively for ‘Always’, ‘Often’, ‘Sometimes’ and ‘Never’. For the negative
statements the reverse order was followed from 1 to 4,9 which is given below.
Scoring key (value)

Category Positive Statement Negative Statement
Always 4 1
Often 3 2
Sometimes 2 3
Never 1 4
The inventory yielded a maximum score of 80 and a minimum score of 20. A

high score indicates a relatively high mental health.
86
2. Mukta Rani Rastogi Inventory for Self-Concept
Description of the scale
The self-concept scale which was constructed and standardized by Dr. (Miss)
Mukta Rani Rastogi was used to assess the self concept of the subjects. It consisted
of 51 statements and these statements were given in a jumbled order and they
included both positive and negative statements.
The positive statements are 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 18, 20, 22, 25, 27, 34, 36, 37, 40,
42, 43, 44, 46, 47, 48, 49 and the negative statements are 3, 5, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15,
16, 17, 19, 21, 23, 24, 26, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 35, 38, 39, 41, 45, 50, 51. Each
statement has five responses namely ‘Strongly agree’, ‘Agree’, ‘Undecided’,
‘Disagree’, ‘Strongly Disagree’. The subject had to put a tick mark (  ) for any of
the five responses that fits them best. Reliability was computed by using test and
retest method. The reliability obtained was o.85. Hence, the test in its original form
was made use of in this study. A copy of the questionnaire is given in the
appendix VIII.
Method of Scoring
For the positive statements, the five responses were given a weight age of 5, 4,
3, 2, 1 respectively for the ‘Strongly Agree’, ‘Agree’, ‘Undecided’, ‘Disagree’,
‘Strongly Disagree’. For the negative statements, the reverse order was followed 1
to 510 which was given below
Scoring key
(value)
Category
Positive Statement Negative Statement
Strongly Agree 5 1
Agree 4 2
Undecided 3 3
Disagree 2 4
Strongly Disagree 1 5
87
3. Eysenck’s Personality Inventory for Personality Dimensions
Eysenck’s Personality inventory (EPI) Questionnaire was administered to all

the subjects to measure the personality dimensions.
Test Administration
The Eysenck’s personality Inventory11 was developed to describe two major

patterns of psychological behaviour. The age ranged from grade eighteen to twenty
three (18 – 23). These two dimensions were extroversion, Introversion (E – Scale)
and Neuroticism stability (N- Scale). The inventory consists of 57 Yes or No
responses with a scale Test – retest reliabilities ranged from .80 to .97.
The subjects were administered the EPI – Questionnaire with 57 test items.
The investigator conducted only the E – Scale item (24 Questions). A copy of the
questionnaire is given in the appendix IX.
Scoring
For those with E – score below 8, they considered as the introvert group while
those scoring above 17 formed the extrovert group, and those scoring between 8 and
16 formed the ambivert group. Those scored more than 6 in the lie scale were not
selected for this investigation.
Orientation of Subjects
Before administering the psychological questionnaire, the investigator briefly

explained the purpose of the study and their role in data collection to all the subjects.
All the subjects were motivated to give relevant personal data and to co-operate to
complete the psychological questionnaire.
Administration of Questionnaire
The investigator met the principal of Pope John Paul II College of Education
in Puducherry region and obtained permission to collect data from the students. As
per the instruction given by the principal, the investigator met the directors of physical
education and the students and fixed the date and time for data collection. The
88
investigator distributed the questionnaire to the subjects along with sharpened pencils
for marking the responses. The subjects went through the instructions, read each
statement carefully and indicated their responses. All the questionnaires were
administered by the researcher in person in a face to face relationship. Data was
collected as per the programme fixed. All the filled in questionnaires were collected
from the subjects and scored according to the scoring key. The total scores obtained
were tabulated and statistically treated to arrive at meaningful conclusions.
Training Program
During the training period, the experimental group underwent their respective
training programme five days a week for 12 weeks in addition to their regular
physical education activities. On the training days, practices lasted in the morning
from 6.30 to 7.30 A.M. approximately. The control group did not participate in any
specific training. However, they performed regular physical education activities. A
copy of the training programme was given in the appendix X.
Figure - IX
The subject is performing the Halasana
89
Figure - X
The subject is performing the Mayurasana
Figure - XI
The subject is performing the Nadi Sodhana Pranayama

90
Figure- XII
The subject is performing the Bhramari Pranayama
Figure -XIII
The subject is performing the AUM Meditation

91
Collection of Data
The pre test data on biochemical, physiological and psychological variables

from both control and experimental groups were collected as per the method
prescribed above. The twelve weeks of select yogasanas, pranayama and meditation
training programme were given in a systematic way only for the experimental group.
The control group was not allowed to participate in any of the training programme.
Much care was taken to administer during the physiological and biochemical
variables. The identical conditions were kept by using the same apparatus, testing
personnels and testing procedures. Prior to the twelve weeks of yoga training, pre-
prandial blood test was conducted for the both groups. The pre test was administered
one day before the training programme and the post test blood samples were drawn
from both groups after the completion of the yoga training with a gap of 48 hours.
Psychological data were collected by using the psychological questionnaire. Pre test
data were collected one day before the training programme and the post test data one
day after the training programme in two batches for two days in the evening.
Statistical Technique
The data collected from the two groups on the selected Biochemical,
Physiological and Psychological variables were used for the statistical treatment to
find out whether or not there was any significant difference between the two groups
by the analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) method. The level of significance was
fixed at 0.05 level of confidence. All the statistical calculation was carried out using
SPSS, 11.05 packages.
92
REFERENCES
1
P. Ann, Trinder, Clinical biochemistry, 6. (1964), p.24.
2
W.Richmond,. Clinical Chemistry,19, (1973), pp.1350-1356.
3
P.Fossati & L. Principe, Clinical Chemistry (1982). 28, 2077
4
T. Amer Etal, Amer.J. Amed, (1977). 62, 707.
5
N.Tietz. Ed., Fundamentals of clinical chemistry, (Philadelphia: W.B.
Saunders Company 1976), 302-303
6
Ibid.
7
Operator’s Manual Clinical ChemistryAnalyser: (RANDOX – IMOLA
BT294 QY - 2008), United Kingdom.
8
Micro Lab Operating Manual, Computerized Pulmonary Function
Spirometer, Micro Medical Limited : Kent MEI 2AZ - 2004). England.
9
Peter Becker, Manual for Trier Personality Inventory, (Germany: University
of Trier, 1989), pp.1 to 9.
10
Mukta Rani Rastogi, Manual for Self-Concept Scale, (Lucknow: University
of Lucknow, 1974).
11
Eysenck Personality Inventory. Nation Psychological Research Cell,
Kachari Got Agra.
Chapter – IV
ANALYSIS OF DATA AND RESULTS OF THE STUDY
Analysis of Data
The statistical analysis of the data has been explained in this chapter. The
effect of select yogasanas, pranayama and meditation on biochemical, physiological
and psychological variables of male students were examined using voluntary subjects
randomly drawn into two groups of twenty each. One group acted as the control group
and the other group acted as the experimental group. The twelve weeks of yogasanas,
pranayama and meditation training was given only for the experimental group and the
other group did not do any physical training. The data for the above mention
variables were collected prior to the training (pre test) and after twelve weeks of
training (post test). The analysis on the effect of 12 weeks of yogasanas, pranayama
and meditation training on the biochemical, physiological and psychological variables
were statistically examined by analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and the results
have been presented in this chapter.
Analysis of Biochemical Variables
The pre test and the post test mean, standard deviation and the adjusted post
test mean of the data on blood glucose is presented in table II.

94
Table - II
Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on Blood
Glucose of Control Group and Experimental Group
Source
Control Experimental Sum of Mean ‘F’
of df
Group Group Squares Squares Ratio
Variance
Pre Test
84.60 84.85 Between 0.625 1 0.625
Mean
0.008
SD 10.007 7.350 Within 2929.350 38 77.088
Post
Test 82.65 74.75 Between 624.100 1 624.100
Mean
12.776*
SD 6.667 7.297 Within 1856.300 38 48.850
Adjusted Between 633.649 1 633.649

Post
82.681 74.719 13.942*
Test
Mean Within 1681.562 37 45.448
* Significant at 0.05 level.

Required table value at 0.05 level of significance for 1 & 37 degrees of freedom = 4.104
1 & 38 degrees of freedom = 4.096
It is observed from table - II that the pre test means on Blood Glucose of the
control and experimental groups are 84.60 and 84.85 respectively. The obtained ‘F’
ratio value 0.008 for the pre test mean is lesser than the required table value 4.096 for
1 & 38 degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance. This reveals that there is no
statistically significant difference between the control and the experimental groups on
Blood Glucose before the commencement of the experimental training. It is inferred
that the random selection of the subjects for the two groups are successful.
95
The post test means on Blood Glucose of the control and the experimental
groups are 82.65 and 74.75 respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio value 12.776 for the
post test data is greater than the required table value 4.096 for 1 & 38 degrees of
freedom at 0.05 levels of significance. It discloses that there is a statistically
significant difference between the control and the experimental groups on Blood
Glucose after the experimental training.
The adjusted post test means on Blood Glucose of the control and the
experimental groups are 82.681 and 74.719 respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio value
of 13.942 for the adjusted post test data is greater than the required table value 4.104
for 1 & 37 degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It reveals that there is
significant change on Blood Glucose as a result of the experimental training. Since
the result has revealed that there is a significance difference, the hypothesis is
accepted.
The results by and large were in conformity with the findings of, Shantha
Joseph 1 who investigated the effect of yogic training on Blood Glucose.
The result of Chinnasamy2 on effect of asanas on Blood Sugar also reveals

similar result in coincidence with the findings of the investigation.
96
Figure - XIV
Graphical Representation on Blood Glucose of Pre - Test, Post -Test
and Adjusted Post -Test Means of Control group and
Experimental Group
90
84.6 84.85
82.65 82.681
80
74.75 74.719
70
60
50
Control Group
Mean
Experimental Group
40
30
20
10
0
Pre Test Post Test Adjusted Post Test
Tests
97
TABLE - III
Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on Total
Cholesterol of Control Group and Experimental Group
Source
Control Experimental Sum of
of Mean ‘F’
Group Group Squares df
Variance Squares Ratio
Pre Test
153.90 179.50 Between 6553.600 1 6553.600
Mean
10.097*
SD 25.01557 25.93007 Within 24664.800 38 649.074
Post
Test 155.30 145.60 Between 940.900 1 940.900
Mean
2.102
SD 22.70660 19.48116 Within 17007.000 38 447.553
Between 4177.019 1 4177.019

Adjusted
Post
161.947 138.953 14.923*
Test
Mean
Within 10356.445 37 279.904

Required table value at 0.05 level of significance 1 & 37 degrees of freedom = 4.014
It is clear from table - III that the pre test means on Total Cholesterol of
control and experimental groups are 153.90 and 179.50 respectively. The obtained ‘F’
ratio value 10.097 for the pre test mean is greater than the required table value 4.096
for significance at 0.05 level. Hence, it is significant and it reveals that there is a
Total Cholesterol before the commencement of the experimental training. It is
inferred that the selection of the subjects are not being randomly assigned.
98
The post test means on Total Cholesterol of the control and the experimental
groups are 155.30 and 145.60 respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio value 2.102 for
post-test data is lesser than the required table value 4.096 for 1 & 38 degrees of
freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It discloses that there is no statistically
significant difference between the control and the experimental groups on Total
Cholesterol after the experimental Period.
The adjusted post test means on Total Cholesterol of the control and the
experimental groups are 161.947 and 138.953 respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio
value 14.923 for the adjusted post test data is greater than the required table value
4.104 for 1 & 37 degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It shows that there
is significant change on Total Cholesterol as a result of the experimental period.
Since the result has revealed that there is significant difference, the hypothesis given
is accepted.
The results by and large were in conformity with the findings of and,
P.V.Karambelkar3.
99
Figure – XV
Graphical Representation on Pre -Test, Post - Test and Adjusted
Post -Test Means on Total Cholesterol of Control Group and
Experimental Group
200
179.5
180
161.947
160 153.9 155.3
145.6
138.953
140
120
Mean
Control Group
100
Experimental Group
80
60
40
20
0
Tests
100
Table – IV
Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on
Triglycerides of Control Group and Experimental Group
Control Experimental Source of Sum of

Mean
Group Group Variance Squares df ‘F’ Ratio
Squares
Pre Test
113.25 114.45 Between 14.400 1 14.400
Mean
0.062
SD 14.87801 15.57824 Within 8816.700 38 232.018
Post Test
119.10 104.80 Between 2044.900 1 2044.900
Mean
6.991*
11115.00
SD 15.23466 18.78577 Within 38 292.500
0
Between 2405.099 1 2405.099

Adjusted
Post Test 119.711 104.189 44.799 *
Mean
Within 1986.389 37 53.686

Table - IV. further shows that the pre test means on Triglycerides of the
control and the experimental groups are 113.25 and 114.45 respectively. The obtained
‘F’ ratio value 0.062 for pre test mean is lesser than the required table value 4.096 at
0.05 level of confidence. Therefore there is no significant difference between the two
groups on Triglycerides before the commencement of the training. It is inferred that
the random selection of the subjects for the two groups are successful.
The post test means on Triglycerides of the control and the experimental
groups are 119.10 and 104.80 respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio value 6.991 for post
101
test data is greater than the required table value 4.096 for 1 & 38 degrees of freedom
at 0.05 level of significance It discloses that there is a statistically significant
difference between the control and the experimental groups on Triglycerides after the
experimental training.
The adjusted post test means on Triglycerides of the control and the
value of 44.799 for adjusted post test data is greater than the required table value
4.104 for significance at 0.05 level of confidence. It shows that there is significant
change on Triglycerides as a result of experimental training. Since the result revealed
that there is significant difference, the hypothesis given is accepted.
The results by and large were in conformity with the findings of, Shantha
Joseph1, and Chinnasamy2
102
Figure - XVI
Graphical Representation on Pre-Test, Post-Test and Adjusted Post-
Test Means on Triglycerides of Control Group and
Experimental Group
140
119.1 119.711
120 114.45
113.25
104.8 104.189
100
80
Mean
Control Group
Experimental Group
60
40
20
0
Tests
103
Table V
Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on High
Density Lipoprotein of Control Group and
Experimental Group
Source
of Mean ‘F’
Pre Test
40.45 39.35 Between 12.100 1 12.100
Mean
0.532
SD 3.57587 5.71494 Within 863.500 38 22.724
Post Test
39.95 42.30 Between 55.225 1 55.225
Mean
1.326
SD 7.74919 4.82428 Within 1583.150 38 41.662
Between 80.092 1 80.092

Adjusted
Post Test 39.70 42.55 2.109
Mean
Within 1404.877 37 37.970

Required table value at 0.05 level of significanc for 1 & 37 degrees of freedom = 4.104
From the table - .V it is clear that the pre test means on (HDL) High Density
Lipoprotein of the control and the experimental groups are 40.45 and 39.35
respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio value 0.532 for the pre test mean is lesser than the
required table value 4.096 at 0.05 level of confidence. Therefore there is no
significant difference between the two groups on High Density Lipoprotein of the
104
training. It is inferred that the random selection of the subjects for the two groups are
successful.
The post test means on High Density Lipoprotein of the control and the
1.326 for the post test data is lesser than the required table value 4.096 for 1 & 38
degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It discloses that there is no
High Density Lipoprotein after the experimental training.
The adjusted post test means on High Density Lipoprotein of the control and
the experimental groups are 39.70 and 42.55 respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio
value 2.109 for the adjusted post test data is lesser than the required table value
is no significant change on High Density Lipoprotein as a result of the experimental
training. Since there is no significant difference, the hypothesis has been rejected,
The results by and large were in conformity with the findings of

Swahney et al4.
105
Figure - XVII
Graphical Representation on Pre-Test, Post-Test and Adjusted
Post-Test Means on High Density Lipoprotein of
45
42.3 42.55
40.45 39.95
39.35 39.7
40
35
30
25
Mean
Control Group
Experimental Group
20
15
10
0
Tests
106
Table - VI
Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on Low
Experimental Group
Source
of df
Variance
Pre Test
136.10 163.05 Between 7263.025 1 7263.025
Mean
10.531*
SD 26.28368 26.23873 Within 26206.750 38 689.651
Post
Test 139.05 124.40 Between 2146.225 1 2146.225
Mean
4.005
SD 24.82672 21.34035 Within 20363.750 38 535.888

Post
146.494 116.956 20.438*
Test
Mean Within 12366.991 37 334.243
Table - VI shows that the pre test means on (LDL) Low Density Lipoprotein
of the control and the experimental groups are 136.10 and 163.05 respectively. The
obtained ‘F’ ratio value 10.531 for the pre test mean is greater than the required table
value 4.096 for 1 & 38 degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance. Hence, it is
significant and it reveals that there is statistically significant difference between the
control and the experimental groups on Low Density Lipoprotein before the
107
commencement of the experimental Period. It inferred that the subjects are not being
randomly assigned.
The post test means on Low Density Lipoprotein of the control and the
degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance . It discloses that there is no
Low Density Lipoprotein after the experimental period.
The adjusted post test means on Low Density Lipoprotein of the control and
is significant change on the Low Density Lipoprotein as a result of the experimental
period. Since the result has revealed that there is significant difference, the
hypothesis is accepted.
The results by and large were in conformity with the findings of Swahney et
al.4, Mahajan5 and, Sinha et al6 .
108
Figure - XVIII
Graphical Representation on Pre-Test, Post -Test and Adjusted

Post- Test Means on Low Density Lipoprotein of
180
163.05
160
146.494
139.05
140 136.1
124.4
120 116.956
100
Mean
Control Group
Experimental Group
80
60
40
20
0
Tests
109
Table - VII
Analysis of Covariance for Pre and Post Test Data on Very Low
Experimental Group
Source
of Mean ‘F’
Pre Test
22.65 22.90 Between 0.625 1 0.625
Mean
0.070
SD 2.90689 3.07622 Within 340.350 38 8.957
Post Test
23.70 21.05 Between 70.225 1 70.225
Mean
5.837*
SD 3.11364 3.79022 Within 457.150 38 12.030
Between 84.527 1 84.527

Adjusted
Post Test 23.83 20.92 35.159*
Mean
Within 88.953 37 2.404

It is observed from table – VII that it shows the pre test means on the (VLDL)
Very Low Dnsity Lipoporetin of the control and the experimental groups are 22.65
and 22.90 respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio value 0.070 for the pre test mean is
lesser than the required table value 4.096 at 0.05 level of confidence. Hence, it is not
significant and it reveals that there is statistically no significant difference between
the control and the experimental groups on Very Low Density Lipoprotein before the
110
commencement of thr experimental training. It inferred that the random selection of
the subjects for the two groups are successful..
The post test means on Very Low Density Lipoprotein of the control and the
experimental groups are 23.70 and 21.05 respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio value of
5.837 for post test data is greater than the required table value 4.096 for 1 & 38
degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It discloses that there is statistically
significant difference between the control and the experimental groups on the Very
Low Ddensity Llipoprotein after the experimental training.
The adjusted post test means on Very Low Density Lipoprotein of the control
and the experimental groups are 23.83 and 20.92 respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio
is significant change on the Very Low Density Lipoprotein as a result of the
experimental training. Siince the result has revealed that there is significant
difference, the hypothesis given is accepted.
The results by and large were in conformity with the findings of Swahney et
al.4, Mahajan et al 5 and, Sinha6 et al.
111
Figure - XIX
Post-Test Means on Very Low Density Lipoprotein of
30
25
23.7 23.83
22.65 22.9
21.05 20.92
20
Mean
Control Group
15
Experimental Group
10
0
Tests
112
Analysis of Physiological Variables
Table - VIII
Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on Forced
Vital Capacity of Control Group and Experimental Group
Source
of Mean ‘F’
Pre Test
2.8895 2.9530 Between 0.040 1 0.040
Mean
0.209
SD 0.39043 0.48387 Within 7.345 38 0.193
Post
Test 2.9850 3.2295 Between 0.598 1 0.598
Mean
2.966
SD 0.34287 0.53437 Within 7.659 38 0.202

Post
3.015 3.200 10.633*
Test
Mean Within 1.183 37 0.032

It is clear from table - VIII that the pre test means on(FVC) Forced Vital
Capacity of the control and the experimental groups are 2.8895 and 2.9530
respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio value 0.209 for pre test mean is lesser than the
required table value 4.096 at 0.05 level. Hence, it is not significant and it reveals that
there is statistically no significant difference between the control and the experimental
groups on Forced Vital Capacity before the commencement of the experimental
113
training.. It is inferred that the random selection of the subjects for the two groups are
successful.
The post test means on the Forced Vital Capacity of the control and the
degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It discloses that there is no
the Forced Vital Capacity after the experimental training.
The adjusted post test means on Forced Vital Capacity of the control and the
10.633 for the adjusted post test data is greater than the required table value 4.104 for
1 & 37 degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It shows that there is
significant change on the Forced Vital Capacity as a result of the experimental period.
Since the result has revealed that, there is significant difference, the hypothesis is
accepted. .
The results by and large were in conformity with the findings of, M.S Nayar et
al7, K.N.Udupa et al8, Birkel et al 9. Harinath et al10 and D.sakthignanavel11
114
Figure – XX
Post-Test Means on Forced Vital Capacity of
3.3
3.2295
3.2
3.2
3.1
3.015
Mean
Control Group
3 2.985
Experimental Group
2.953
2.9 2.8895
2.8
2.7
Tests
115
Table - IX
Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on Forced
Expiratory Volume in First Second (FEV1) of Control
Source
of df
Variance
Pre Test
2.7775 2.8835 Between 0.112 1 0.112
Mean
0.695
SD 0.33476 0.45969 Within 6.144 38 0.162
Post Test
2.9470 0.31638 Between 0.545 1 0.545
Mean
3.366
SD 3.1805 0.47319 Within 6.156 38 0.162
Between 0.194 1 0.194

Adjusted
Post Test 2.993 3.134 5.020*
Mean
Within 1.429 37 0.039

Required table value at 0.05 level of significance for 1 & 37 degrees of freedom =4.104
1 & 38 degrees of freedom=4.096
Table - IX further shows that the pre test means on the (FVC1) Forced
Expiratory Volume in First Second of the control and the experimental groups are
2.7775 and 2.8835 respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio value 0.695 for the pre test
mean is lesser than the required table value 4.096 at 0.05 level of confidence. Hence,
it is not significant and it reveals that there is statistically no significant difference
116
between control and experimental groups on the Forced Expiratory Volume in
First Second before the commencement of experimental Period. It is inferred that the
random selection of the subjects for the two groups are successful.
The post test means on the Forced Expiratory Volume in First Second of the
control and the experimental groups are 2.9470 and 0.31638 respectively. The
obtained ‘F’ ratio value 3.366 for the post-test data is lesser than the required table
value 4.096 for 1 & 38 degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It discloses
that there is no statistically significant difference between the control and the
experimental groups on the Forced Expiratory Volume in First Second after the
The adjusted post test means on very Forced Expiratory Volume in First
Second of the control and the experimental groups are 2.993 and 3.134 respectively.
The obtained ‘F’ ratio value 5.020 for the adjusted post test data is greater than the
required table value 4.104 for 1 & 37 degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance.
It shows that there is significant change on Forced Expiratory Volume in First Second
as a result of the experimental training. Since the result is revealed that there is
significant difference, the hypothesis given is accepted.
The results by and large were in conformity with the findings of

Harinath et al.10 and D.Sakthignanavel11.
117
Figure – XXI
Post-Test Means on Forced Expiratory Volume in First Second
(FEV1) of Control Group and Experimental Group
3.5
3.134
2.993
3 2.947
2.8835
2.7775
2.5
2
Mean
Control Group
Experimental Group
1.5
0.5
0.31638
0
Tests
118
Table - X
Analysis of Covariance for Pre and Post Test Data on Peak
Expiratory Flow Rate of Control Group and Experimental Group
Source
of Mean ‘F’
Pre Test
Mean 405.25 413.15 Between 624.100 1 624.100
0.115
SD 73.47457 73.79294 Within 206034.300 38 5421.955
Post
Test 417.60 474.65 Between 32547.025 1 32547.025
Mean
5.741*
91.36359 54.68597 Within 215419.350 38 5668.930

SD

Post
420.349 471.901 8.477*
Test
Mean Within 115646.197 37 3125.573

Table - X shows that the pre test means on (PEFR) Peak Expiratory Flow Rate
obtained ‘F’ ratio value 0.115 for the pre test mean is lesser than the required table
value 4.096 for significance at 0.05 level. Hence, it is not significant, it reveals that
there is statistically no significant difference between the control and the experimental
groups on Peak Expiratory Flow Rate in before the commencement of the
experimental training. It is inferred that the random selection of the subjects for the
two groups are successful.
119
The post test means on the Peak Expiratory Flow Rate of the control and the
5.741 for the post test data is greater than the required table value 4.096 for 1 & 38
significant difference between the control and the experimental groups on Peak
Expiratory Flow Rate after the experimental Period.
The adjusted post test means on the Peak Expiratory Flow Rate of the control
and the experimental groups are 420.349 and 471.901 respectively. The obtained ‘F’
ratio value 8.477 for the adjusted post test data is greater than the required table value
is significant change on the Peak Expiratory Flow Rate as a result of experimental
training. Since the result has revealed that there is significant difference, the
hypothesis given is accepted.
The results by and large were in conformity with the findings of Harinath et
al.10 and D.sakthignanavel11.
120
Figure – XXII
Post-Test on Peak Expiratory Flow Rate of Control Group
500 474.65 471.901
450 420.349
417.6
405.25 413.15
400
350
300
Control Group
Mean
250
Experimental Group
200
150
100
50
0
Tests
121
Table - XI
Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on Systolic
Blood Pressure of Control Group and Experimental Group
Source
of Mean ‘F’
Pre Test
113.35 115.25 Between 36.100 1 36.100
Mean
0.236
SD 15.22558 8.59544 Within 5808.300 38 152.850
Post
Test 111.20 105.40 Between 336.400 1 336.400
Mean
3.210
SD 12.35271 7.54914 Within 3982.000 38 104.789

Post
111.707 104.893 7.330*
Test
Mean Within 2328.965 37 62.945
From table - XI it is clear that the pre test means on Systolic Blood Pressure
value 4.096 for significance at 0.05 level. Hence, it is not significant and it reveals
that there is statistically no significant difference between control and experimental
groups on systolic blood pressure before the commencement of experimental period.
122
It is inferred that the random selection of the subjects for the two groups are
successful.
The post test means on Systolic Blood Pressure of the control and the
value 3.210 for the post-test data is lesser than the required table value 4.096 for 1 &
38 degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It discloses that there is no
Systolic Blood Pressure after the experimental training.
The adjusted post test means on Systolic Blood Pressure of the control and the
experimental groups are111.707 and 104.893 respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio
is significant change on the Systolic Blood Pressure as a result of the experimental
period. Since the result has revealed that there is significance difference, the
hypothesis given is accepted.
al10, Udapa et al8 ,Vidya and Pansare12, Prasad and Sinha6, Gopal et al13 , Swahaney et
al4 and Chinnasamy2.
123
Figure - XXIII
Graphical Representation on Pre -Test, Post -Test and Adjusted
Post -Test Data on Systolic Blood Pressure of Control
140
120
113.35 115.25 111.707
111.2
105.4 104.893
100
80
Control Group
Mean
Experimental Group
60
40
20
0
Test
124
Table - XII
Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on Diastolic
Blood Pressure of Control Group and
Experimental Group
Source
of Mean ‘F’
Pre Test
Mean
72.05 74.90 Between 81.225 1 81.225
1.052
SD 10.92306 5.91964 Within 2932.750 38 77.178
Post
Test 74.85 67.90 Between 483.025 1 483.025
Mean
8.673*
SD 9.08020 5.37930 Within 2116.350 38 55.693

Post
75.551 67.199 17.858*
Test
Mean Within 1406.400 37 38.011
Table – XII shows that the pre test means on Diastolic Blood Pressure of the
‘F’ ratio value 1.052 for the pre test mean is lesser than the required table value
4.096 for significance at 0.05 level. Hence, it is not significant and it reveals that there
is statistically no significant difference between the control and the experimental
125
groups on Diastolic Blood Pressure before the commencement of the experimental
training. It is inferred that the random selection of the subjects for the two groups are
successful.
The post test mean on Diastolic Blood Pressure for the control and the
8.673 for the post test data is greater than the required table value 4.096 for 1 & 38
significant difference between the control and the experimental groups on Diastolic
Blood Pressure after the experimental training.
The adjusted post test mean on Diastolic Blood Pressure of the control and the
17.858 for adjusted post test data is greater than the required table value 4.104 for 1
& 37 degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It shows that there is
significant change on the Diastolic Blood Pressure as a result of experimental
training. Since the result has revealed that there is significance difference, the
hypothesis given is accepted. .
al10, Udapa et al 8, Vidya and Pansare 12, Prasad and Sinha 6, Gopal et al13, Swahaney
et al 4 and Chinnasamy2
126
Figure – XXIV
Post -Test Means on Diastolic Blood Pressure of
80
74.9 74.85 75.511
72.05
70 67.9 67.199
60
50
Control Group
Mean
40 Experimental Group
30
20
10
0
Tests
127
Table - XIII
Analysis of Covariance for Pre-Test and Post -Test Data on Pulse
Rate of Control Group and Experimental Group
Source
of df
Variance
Pre Test
70.90 75.55 Between 216.225 1 216.225
Mean
3.145
SD 9.15308 7.33036 Within 2612.750 38 68.757
Post Test 72.75 69.90 Between 81.225 1 81.225

Mean
1.908
SD 7.04030 5.96393 Within 1617.550 38 42.567
Between 242.129 1 242.129

Adjusted
Post Test 73.885 68.765 9.006*
Mean
Within 994.775 37 26.886

.
It is observed from the table - XIII that the pre test mean on Pulse Rate of the
‘F’ ratio value 3.145 for pre test mean is lesser than the required table value 4.096
for significance at 0.05 level. Hence, it is not significant and it reveals that there is
statistically no significant difference between the control and the experimental groups
on Pulse Rate before the commencement of the experimental training. It is inferred
that the random selection of subjects for two groups are successful.
128
The post test mean on Pulse Rate of the control and the experimental groups
are 72.75 and 69.90 respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio value 1.908 for post test data
is lesser than the required table value 4.096 for 1 & 38 degrees of freedom at 0.05
level significance. It discloses that there is no statistically significant difference
between the control and the experimental groups on Pulse Rate after the experimental
training.
The adjusted post test mean on very Pulse Rate of the control and the
9.006 for the adjusted post test data is greater than the required table value 4.104 for 1
& 37 degres of freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It shows that there is
significance change on Pulse Rate as a result of the experimental training. Since the
result has revealed that there is significance difference, the hypothesis given is
accepted.
The results by and large were in conformity with the findings of Oak and
Bhole 14, Vidya and Pansare 12
129
Figure – XXV
Graphical Representation on Pre -Test, Post-Test and Adjusted
Post-Test Means on Pulse Rate of Control
80
75.55
73.885
72.75
70.9
69.9
70 68.765
60
50
Mean
Control Group
40
Experimental Group
30
20
10
0
Tests
130
Table - XIV
Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on Rate
Pressure Product of Control Group and
Experimental Group
Source
of Mean ‘F’
Pre Test
80.390 87.345 Between 483.720 1 483.720
Mean
2.139
SD 16.80069 13.04286 Within 8595.207 38 226.190
Post
81.150 73.315 Between 613.872 1 613.872
Test
Mean 5.314*
SD 10.93173 10.56111 Within 4389.756 38 115.520

Post
83.082 71.383 27.592*
Test
Mean Within 1737.401 37 46.957

Table – XIV shows that the pre test means on Rate Pressure Product of the
‘F’ ratio value 2.139 for the pre test mean is lesser than the required table value
4.096 for significance at 0.05 level. Hence, it is not significant and it reveals that there
is statistically no significant difference between the control and the experimental
groups on Rate Pressure Product before the commencement of the experimental
131
training. It is inferred that the random selection of the subjects for two groups are
successful.
The post test mean on Rate Pressure Product of the control and the
of 5.314 for post test data is greater than the required table value 4.096 for 1 & 38
degrees of the freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It discloses that there is
rate pressure Product after the experimental training.
The adjusted post test mean on Rate Pressure Product of the control and the
27.592 for adjusted post test data is greater than the required table value 4.104 for 1
& 37 degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It shows that there is
significant change on the Rate Pressure Product as a result of the experimental
training. Since the result has revealed that there is significance difference, hypothesis
given is accepted.
The results by and large were in conformity with the findings of Madan
Mohan et al15, and D.Sakthignanavel11
132
Figure - XXVI
Graphical Representation on Pre -Test, Post-Test and Adjusted
Post -Test Means on Rate Pressure Product of
100
90 87.345
83.082
80.39 81.15
80
73.315
71.383
70
60
Mean
Control Group
50
Experimental Group
40
30
20
10
0
Tests
133
Table - XV
Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on Maximum
Expiratory Pressure of Control Group
Source
of Mean ‘F’
Pre Test
55.50 74.00 Between 3422.500 1 3422.500
Mean
9.871*
SD 16.37553 20.62191 Within 13175.000 38 346.711
Post
Test 66.00 120.00 Between 29160.000 1 29160.000
Mean
66.432*
SD 15.00877 25.54665 Within 16680.000 38 438.947

Post
71.645 114.355 45.506*
Test
Mean Within 11773.617 37 318.206

Table – XV shows that the pre test means on (MEP) Maximum Eexpiratory
Pressure of the control and the experimental groups are 55.50 and 74.00 respectively.
The obtained ‘F’ ratio value 9.871 for pre test mean is greater than the required table
value 4.096 for significance at 0.05 level. Hence, it is significant and it reveals that
there is statistically significant difference between the control and the experimental
groups on Maximum Expiratory Pressure before the commencement of the
134
experimental training. It is inferred that selection of the subjects are not being
randomly assigned.
The post test mean on Maximum Eexpiratory Pressure of the control and the
significant difference between the control and the experimental groups on Maximum
Expiratory Pressure after the experimental training.
The adjusted post test mean on Maximum Expiratory Pressure of the control
ratio value 45.506 for adjusted post test data is greater than the required table value
4.104 for 1& 37 degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of g significance It shows that
there is significant change on Maximum Expiratory Pressure as a result of
experimental period. Since the result has revealed that there is significance
difference, the hypothesis given is accepted.
Mohan et al15, D.Sakthignanavel11 anA. Chandrabos .16.
135
Figure – XXVII
Graphical Representation on Pre-Test, Post Test and Adjusted
Post -Test Means on Rate Pressure Product of
140
120
120
114.355
100
80
74
71.645
Mean
Control Group
66
Experimental Group
60 55.5
40
20
0
Tests
136
Table - XVI
Analysis of Covariance for Pre Test and Post Test Data on Maximum
Inspiratory Pressure of Control Group
Source
of Mean ‘F’
Pre Test
58.50 75.25 Between 2805.625 1 2805.625
Mean
4.493*
SD 24.76734 25.20834 Within 23728.750 38 624.441
Post
Test 65.50 103.50 Between 14440.000 1 14440.000
Mean
19.086*
SD 30.34451 24.33862 Within 28750.000 38 756.579

Post
71.782 97.218 13.901*
Test
Mean Within 15401.172 37 416.248

Table – XVI shows that the pre test mean on Maximum Inspiratory Pressure of
the control and the experimental groups are 58.50 and 75.25 respectively. The obtained
‘F’ ratio value 4.493 for the pre test mean is greater than the required table value 4.096
for significance at 0.05 level. Hence, it is significant and it reveals that there is
Maximum Inspiratory Pressure before the commencement of the experimental period. It
is inferred that the selection of the subjects are not being randomly assigned.
137
The post test mean on Maximum Inspiratory Pressure of the control and the
19.086 for post test data is greater than the required table value 4.096 for 1& 38
significant difference between the control and the experimental groups on Maximum
Inspiratory Pressure after the experimental period.
The adjusted post test mean on Maximum Inspiratory Pressure of the control
ratio value 13.901 for the adjusted post test data is greater than the required table
value 4.104 for 1 & 37 degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It shows that
there is significant change on the Maximum Inspiratory Pressure as a result of
experimental period. Since the result has revealed that there is significant difference,
the hypothesis is accepted.
Mohan et al15, and D.Sakthignanavel11.
Figure – XXVIII
138
Graphical Representation on Pre-Test, Post-Test and Adjusted Post
Test Data on Maximum Inspiratory Pressure of
120
103.5
100 97.218
80
75.25
71.782
65.5
Mean
58.5 Control Group

60
Experimental Group
40
20
0
Test
139
Table - XVII
Analysis of Covariance for Pre and Post Test Data on Breath Holding
Time of Control Group and Experimental Group
Source
of Mean ‘F’
Pre Test
46.7135 52.6665 Between 354.382 1 354.382
Mean
0.885
SD 14.83241 24.10349 Within 15218.593 38 400.489
Post
51.4720 100.5760 Between 24112.028 1 24112.028
Test
Mean 34.264*
12.32984 35.43189 Within 26741.429 38 703.722

SD

Post
53.849 98.199 41.753*
Test
Mean Within 17033.066 37 460.353

Table – XVII shows that the pre test mean on Breath Holding Time of the
control and the experimental groups are 46.7135 and 52.6665 respectively. The
value of 4.096 for significance at 0.05 level. Hence, it is not significant and it reveals
that there is statistically no significant difference between the control and the
experimental groups on Breath Holding Time before the commencement of
140
experimental training. It is inferred that the random selection of the subjects for the
two groups are successful.
The post test mean on of the control and the experimental Breath Holding
Time groups are 51.4720 and 100.5760 respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio value
significant difference between the control and the experimental groups on after the
The adjusted post test mean on the control and the experimental groups are
53.849 and 98.199 respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio value 41.753 for the adjusted
post test data is greater than the required table value 4.104 for 1 & 37 degrees of
freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It shows that there is significant change on the
Breath Holding Time as a result of the experimental training. Since the result has
revealed that there is significant difference, the hypothesis given is accepted.
Mohan et al9, Chandrabose , Bhargava et al 6, Vyas,Rashmi et al 40 and
D.Sakthignanavel
141
Figure - XXIX
Post-Test Data on Breath Holding Time of
120
100.576
100 98.199
80
Mean
Control Group
60
53.849 Experimental Group
52.6665
51.472
46.7135
40
20
0
Tests
142
Analysis of Psychological Variables
Table - XVIII
Analysis of Covariance for Pre and Post Test Data on Mental Health
of Control Group and Experimental Group
Source
of Mean ‘F’
Pre Test
Mean 60.55 60.55 Between 0.000 1 0.000
0.000
SD 6.94698 5.90695 Within 1579.900 38 41.576
Post Test 61.65 68.45 Between 462.400 1 462.400

Mean
9.583*
6.95304 6.93940 Within 1833.500 38 48.250

SD
Adjusted
Post Test Between 462.400 1 462.400
61.650 68.450 35.449*
Mean Within 482.637 37 13.044

Table – XIX shows that the pre test means on Mental Health of the control and
value 0.000 for the pre test mean is lesser than the required table value 4.096 for
significance at 0.05 level. Hence, it is not significant and it reveals that there is
143
on Mental Health before the commencement of experimental trainingt. It is inferred
The post test mean Mental Health of the control and the experimental groups
are 61.65 and 68.45 respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio value 9.583 for the post test
data is greater than the required table value 4.096 for 1 & 38 degrees of freedom at
0.05 level of significance. It discloses that there is statistically significant difference
between the control and the experimental groups on Mental Health after the
The adjusted post test mean on the Mental Health of the control and the
of 35.449 for the adjusted post test data is greater than the required table value 4.104
for 1 & 37 degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It shows that there is
significant change on the Mental Health as a result of the experimental training.
is accepted.
The results by and large were in conformity with the findings of ,Thilagavathy
17
D. Sakthignanavel11 , and Lee and Russel18
144
Figure - XXX
Post -Test Data on Mental Health of Control Group and
Experimental Group
80
70 68.45 68.45
61.65 61.65
60.55 60.55
60
50
Mean
Control Group
40
Experimental Group
30
20
10
0
Tests
145
Table - XIX
Analysis of Covariance for Pre and Post Test Data on
Self-Concept of Control Group and Experimental Group
Source
of Mean ‘F’
Pre Test
170.40 169.85 Between 3.025 1 3.025
Mean
0.027
SD 9.41667 11.51784 Within 4205.350 38 110.667
Post Test
173.45 178.10 Between 216.225 1 216.225
Mean
2.100
SD 7.95034 11.94681 Within 3912.750 38 102.967
Between 253.303 1 253.303

Adjusted
Post Test 173.258 178.292 5.052*
Mean
Within 1854.991 37 50.135

Table – XXI shows that the pre test means on the Self Concept of the control
ratio value 0.027 for the pre test mean is lesser than the required table value 4.096 for
significance at 0.05 level. Hence, it is not significant and it reveals that there is
146
on the Self-Concept before the commencement of experimental period. It is inferred
The post test mean on the Self-Concept of the control and the experimental
groups are 173.45 and 178.10 respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio value 2.100 for the
post test data is lesser than the required table value 4.096 for 1 & 38 degrees of
freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It discloses that there is statistically no
significant difference between the control and the experimental groups on Self-
Concept after the experimental period.
The adjusted post test mean on Self-Concept of the control and the
is significant change on Self- Concept as a result of experimental period. Since the
result has revealed that there is significant difference, the hypothesis is accepted.
The results by and large were in conformity with the findings of Akbar
Hussein19 and Gandhi and Menatchi Sundaram20.
147
Figure – XXXI
Graphical Representation on Pre-Test, Post -Test and Adjusted
Post -Test Data on Self-Concept of Control Group and
Experimental Group
200
178.1 178.292
180 173.258
170.4169.85
173.45
160
140
120
Mean
Control Group
100
Experimental Group
80
60
40
20
0
Tests
148
Table – XX - A
Analysis of Covariance for Pre and Post Test Data on Personality-
Neurosis of Control Group and Experimental Group
Source
of Mean ‘F’
Pre Test
12.75 12.60 Between 0.225 1 0.225
Mean
0.016
SD 3.61102 3.91219 Within 538.550 38 14.172
Post Test
12.50 10.85 Between 27.225 1 27.225
Mean
1.366
SD 4.44262 4.48712 Within 757.550 38 19.936
Between 22.677 1 22.677

Adjusted
Post Test 12.428 10.922 3.195
Mean
Within 262.581 37 7.097

Table – XXII- A shows that the pre test mean on Personality - Neurosis of the
‘F’ ratio value 0.016 for pre test mean is lesser than the required table value 4.096 at
0.05 level of significance. The result reveals that there is no statistically significant
difference in the pre test between the control and the experimental groups on
Personality - Neurosis before the commencement of experimental period. It is
inferred that the random selection of the subjects for the two groups are successful.
149
The post test mean on Personality - Neurosis of the control and the
degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance It discloses that there is no
Personality - Neurosis after the experimental period.
The adjusted post test mean on Personality - Neurosis of the control and the
3.195 for the adjusted post test data is lesser than the required table value 4.104 for 1
& 37 degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It shows that there is no
significant change on Personality - Neurosis as a result of experimental period.
Since, there is no significant difference, the hypothesis has been rejected.
The results by and large were in conformity with the findings of, Eysenck21,
R.J Brady22 and Tucker23.
150
Figure – XXXII-A
Graphical Representation on Pre -Test, Post -Test and Adjusted
Post-Test Data on Personality- Neurosis of
14
12.75
12.6 12.5 12.428
12
10.85 10.922
10
8
Mean
Control Group
Experimental Group
0
Tests
151
Table – XX - B
Analysis of Covariance for Pre and Post Test Data on Personality
Extrovert of Control Group and Experimental Group
Source
of Mean ‘F’
Pre Test
13.35 12.50 Between 7.225 1 7.225
Mean
1.127
SD 2.45539 2.60566 Within 243.550 38 6.409
Post
Test 13.65 16.95 Between 108.900 1 108.900
Mean
15.131*
SD 2.81490 2.54383 Within 273.500 38 7.197

Post
13.313 17.287 47.027*
Test
Mean Within 120.637 37 3.260
Table – XXII- Ashows that the pre test means on Personality Extrovert of the
‘F’ ratio value of 1.127 for the pre test mean is lesser than the required table value of
4.096 for significance at 0.05 level. Hence, it is not significant and it reveals that
there is no statistically significant difference between the control and the experimental
152
groups on personality extrovert before the commencement of experimental training.
It is inferred that the random selection of the subjects for two groups are successful.
The post test mean on Personality Extrovert of the control and the
experimental groups are 13.65 and 16.95 respectively. The obtained ‘F’ ratio value of
significant difference between the control and the experimental groups on Personality
Eextrovert after the experimental period. .
The adjusted post test mean on Personality Extrovert of the control and the
47.027 for the adjusted post test data is greater than the required table value 4.104 for
1 & 37 degrees of freedom at 0.05 level of significance. It shows that there is
significant change on Personality Extrovert as a result of the experimental period.
is accepted.
The results by and large were in conformity with the findings of H.J.
Eysenck21 , Paul and R.J Brady22 and Tucker23
153
Figure – XXXII-B
Graphical Representation on Pre -Test, Post -Test and adjusted
Post - Test Data on Personality- Extrovert of
20
18
17.287
16.95
16
14 13.65
13.35 13.313
12.5
12
Mean
Control Group
10
Experimental Group
0
Tests
154
DISCUSSION ON FINDINGS
The discussion on the results of the twelve weeks of yogasanas, pranayama

and meditation training on biochemical, physiological and psychological variables are
as follows
Biochemical Variables
1. Blood Glucose: From the result of the study it is observed that there is no
significant change in the means of the blood glucose level on pre test between the
control and the experimental groups. But the Blood Glucose level has decreased
significantly for the experimental group after the twelve weeks of yogasanas,
pranayama and meditation than the control group.
2. Total Cholesterol: There is significant difference between control and

experimental groups on Total Cholesterol. The experimental group has higher level in
pre test. However, due to Yogasanas, pranayama and meditation training, the Total
Cholesterol level has been decreased significantly in the experimental group when
compared with the control group.
3. Triglycerides: There is no significant difference in the Triglycerides of

control and experimental groups of pre test, while it is decreased significantly in the
experimental group than the control group due to yoga training.
4. High Density Lipoprotein: There is no significant differences between

the control and the experimental groups of pre test and post test. But the High Density
Lipoprotein level slightly increases in the post test of the experimental group than the
control group.
5. Low Density Lipoprotein: There is significant difference in the Low

Density Lipoprotein on pre test between control and experimental groups. Due to 12
weeks of yogasanas, pranayama and meditation, the Low Density Lipoprotein level is
decreased in the post test of the experimental group than the control group.
155
6. Very Low Density Lipoprotein: No significant difference in Very Low
Density Lipoprotein between pre test control and pre test experimental group. And
because of 12 weeks of yogasanasa training, there is a significant change in Very
Low Density Lipoprotein for the post test of the experimental group than the control
group.
Physiological Variables
1. Forced Vital Capacity: The results of the study reveals that there is no
significant difference between pre test control and experimental groups. But the
twelve weeks of yogasanas, pranayama and meditation training results in significant
change in the Forced Vital Capacity for post test experimental group than the control
group.
2. Forced Vital Capacity First second: There is no significant difference in

the pre test control and experimental group. After 12 weeks of yogasanas, pranayama
and meditation training there is a significant difference in the Forced Vital Capacity
First Second FEV1 volume in the post test experimental group.
3. Peak Expiratory Flow Rate: In this study it is found that there is no

significant difference between pre test control and experimental group. Due to
yogasanas, pranayama and meditation training there is significant difference in the
post test experimental group than the control group.
4. Systolic blood pressure: In the present study the investigator has found
that there is significant difference in Systolic Blood Pressure in the pre test and post
test of the control and the experimental groups. But there is significant difference in
the Adjusted post test mean due to twelve weeks of the training programme..
5. Diastolic Blood pressure: From this study, it is examined that there is no

significant difference between the pre test of the control and experimental groups in
Diastolic Blood Pressure. But there is significant difference in the post test of the
control and experimental groups due to twelve weeks of the training programme..
156
6. Pulse rate: The result of this study reveals that the investigator has found
that there is no significant difference in Pulse Rate in the pre test and the post tests of
the control and the experimental groups. But there is significant difference in the
Adjusted post test mean due to the twelve weeks of the training programme..
7. Rate Pressure Product: The study reveals that there is no significant

difference between the pre test of the control and experimental groups on Rate
Pressure Product. While the result reveals that there is significant difference in the
post experimental group on Rate Pressure Product.
8. Maximum Expiratory Pressure: There is significant increase in the

Maximum Expiratory Pressure in the pre test, post test and the Adjusted post test
mean of the control and the experimental groups.
9. Maximum Inspiratory Pressure: There is significant increasse in the

Maximum Insporatory Pressure in the pre test, post test and the Adjusted post test
mean of the control and the experimental groups.
10. Breath Holding Time: In this study it is found that there is no significant
difference between pre test of the control and the experimental groups. But the result
reveals that there is significant difference exist in the post test experimental group.
Psychological Variables
1. Mental Health: The study shows that there is no significant difference

between the pre test control group and the experimental groups. While there exists
significant difference in the post test experimental groups in the mental health after
twelve weeks of yogasanas, pranayama and meditation training.
2. Self-Concept: The result of this study reveals that there is no significant

difference between pre test and post test of control group and pre test experimental
groups in self-concept. But the twelve weeks of yogasanas training resulted in
significant difference in the Adjusted post test mean of Self-Concept.
157
3. 1. Personality - Neurosis: The finding of study reveals that there is no
significant difference in the pre test and the post test of the control and the
experimental groups. Also there is no significance in the Adjusted post test mean.
3. 2. Personsality – Extrovert: The result of this study reveals that there is

no significant difference between pre test control group and the experimental group in
Personality – Extrovert. But the twelve weeks of yogasanas, pranayama and
meditation training shows significant difference in the post test experimental group
and the Adjusted post test mean in Personality – Extrovert.
DISCUSSION ON HYPOTHESES
The researcher had formulated the following hypotheses:
It was hypothesised that there would be significant effects on biochemical,

physiological and psychological variables as a result of twelve weeks of yogasanas,
pranayama and meditation practice when compared with the control group.
Biochemical Variables
The hypothesis mentioned in the study is that there would be significant effect
on biochemical variables as a result of twelve weeks of yogasanas, pranayama and
meditation practice. The results of the study reveals that there is significant reduction
in blood glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low density lipoprotein, and very low
density lipoprotein level. Since there is significant difference between the
experimental group and the control group in the above mentioned variables, therefore
the hypothesis has been accepted.
In this study it is found that the high density lipoprotein level of the
experimental group did not increase significantly when compared to the control
group. Therefore the hypothesis has been rejected.
158
Physiological Variables
The hypothesis mentioned in the study is that there would be significant effect
on physiological variables as a result of twelve weeks of yogasanas, pranayama and
meditation practice. The results of the study shows that there is significant increase
in forced vital capacity, forced expiratory flow rate in the first second, peak expiratory
flow rate, maximum expiratory pressure, maximum inspiratroy pressure and the
breath holding time of the experimental group when compared to the control group.
In the case of systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, pulse rate and rate
pressure product, it is found, that the reduction level is significant in the experimental
group when compared to the control group. Therefore, hypothesis is accepted.
Psychological Variables
The hypothesis formulated in this study is, that the there would be significant
effect on psychological variables as a result of twelve weeks of yogasanas, pranayama
and meditation practice. The results of the study determine, that there is significant
increase in mental health, self-concept and personality - extrovert of the experimental
group when compared to the control group. Thus, the hypothesis has been accepted.
The other dimension of the personality - neurosis did not show any significant
changes. Hence, the hypothesis is rejected.
159
REFERENCES
1
Santha Joseph, K., et al., “ Study of some physiological and biochemical
parameters in subjects undergoing yogic training”. Indian. J. Med. Res., 74 (1981),
pp.120-124.
2
Chinnaswamy, “Effects of Asanas and Physical Exercise Selected
Physiological and Biochemical Variables”, Unpublished M.Phil. Dissertation,
Alagappa University, Karaikudi, July, 1992.
3
Karambelkar, P.V., et al., ”Effect of yogic practices on cholesterol level in
females”. Yoga Mimamsa, 20 (1978), pp.1-8.
4
Swahney et al., “Coronary Artery Disease Regression Through Life Style
Changes: Vegetarianism, Moderate Exercise, Stress Management Through Rajayoga
Meditation”. Defence Institute of Physiology & Allied Sciences, New Delhi. (1999).
5
A. S. Mahajan, K.S. Reddy, and U.Sachdeva, “Yogic Lifestyle Intervention -
Lipid Profile of Coronary Risk Subjects”, Indian Hear J., 51 (1) (1999), pp.37-40.
6
A.K. Sinha and R.N. Bhan, “Mental Health in University Students”, Third
Survey of Research in Education 1978-83, (1987), pp.424-425.
7
M.S. Nayar et al, “Effects of Yogic Exercises on Human Physical
Efficiency”, Indian Journal of Medicine Research (1975), 63: pp.1369-1375.
8
K.N. Udupa et al, “A Comparative Study on the Effect of Some Individuals
Yogic Practives in Normal Persons”, Indian Journal of Medical Research 63,
(1975), pp.1066- 1071.
9
D.A Birkel,., and L.Edgren. “Hatha Yoga: Improved Vital Capacity of
College Students”, Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, 6 (6) (Nov 2000),
pp.55-56.
10
Harinath, et al.,“Effects of Hatha Yoga and Omkar Meditation of
Cardiorespiratory Performance, Psychologic Profile, and Melatonin secretion”,
Journal of Alternative and Complementaty Medicine, 10 (2), (2004), p.261-268.
160
11
D.Sakthignanavel, “Effect of continuous running, yogic pranayama, and
combination of continuous running and yogic pranayama exercise on cardio-
respiratory endurance, selected physiological and psychological variables”
Unpublished Doctoral Dissertation, Annamalai University, September, 1995.
12
A.R. Joshi and M.S. Pansare, “Effect of Yoga Pulmonary Functions Tests”,
Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology ,30:5 (1986), p.9.
13
K.S. Gopal et al. “The Effect of Yogasanana on Muscular Tone and Cardio
Respiratory Adjustments”, Yoga Life, 6:5, (May 1975), p.3.
14
J.P.Oak and M.V. Bhole, “Pulse Rate during and after Bhaya Kumbaka with
Difference conditi1ons of Abdominal Wall”, Yoga Mimamas, Vol.I, XXII: 3&4; 71-
76, (1983-84), p.31
15
Madan Mohan et al. “Effect of Yoga Type Breathing on Heart Rate and
Cardiac Axis of Normal Subjects”, Indian Journal of Physiological Pharma, (1986)
30: (1986), pp.334-339
16
A. Chandrabose “Therapeutic effect of yoga practice on patients suffering
from bronchial asthma”, Unpublished Medical Project, Pondicherry University,
1994.
17
Thilagavathy, “A study of academic achievement of adolescents relation to
their cognitive style, locus of control, self esteem and mental health”, Unpublished
Ph.D., Thesis, Annamalai University, 1995.
18
C. Lee and A. Russell, “ Effects of Physical activity on Emotional well-
being among older Australian women: cross sectional and longitudinal analyses”.
Journal of Psychosomastic Responses, 54 (2) (2003).
19
Akbar Hussian , “Self – Concept of Physically Challenged Adolescents”,
Journal of the Indian Academy of Applied Psychology, Vol.32, No.I, (2006)
pp 4-6.
161
20
Gandhi.C. Meenakshisundaram, “A study of self-concept of Teacher
Trainees in relation to some Familial and Institutional Variables”. Meston Journal of
Education, Vol. 3, Issue no.1. April 2004, pp.17-18.
21
H.J.Eysenck, The Biological Basis of Personality, (Springfiled:
C.C.Thomas, 1967), p.90.
22
Paul R.J.Brady, “The Relationship of Introversion Extroversion to Physical
Persistence,” Completed Research in Health, Physical Education and Recreation, 9,
(1966), p.39.
23
A. Tucker, “Muscular Strength and Mental Health”, Journal of Personality
and Social Psychology Vol.46 (6) (1983), pp.355-1360.
Chapter V
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary
This study was undertaken to determine The Effect of Select Yogasanas, Pranayama
and Meditation on Biochemical Physiological and Psychological Variables of Male Students.
In the present study, forty male students were selected by random sample from Pope
John Pal II College of Education. The subjects chosen for the study were divided randomly
into two equal groups called control and experimental groups consisting of twenty boys in
each group. They were the students of B.A.B.Ed., B.Sc.B.Ed. and B.com.B.Ed Integrated
Course and their age ranged from 18 to 23 years. The investigator explained to them the
purpose, importance of the experiment and the procedure to be employed to collect their
Blood sample, instrument reliability, physiological tests and psychological questionnaire.
Further the role of the subjects during the experimentation and the testing procedure was also
explained to them in detail.
Twelve weeks of Yogasana, Pranayama, and mediation trainings were given to the
experimental group. The control group was not allowed to participate in any of the training
programmes, except in their regular physical education programmes. The experimental group
underwent the training programme as per the training schedule prepared by the investigator.
The training programme was held five days in a week for 12 weeks, the training was
conducted by a yoga trainer and was personally supervised by the investigator.
The Biochemical Variables used in the present study were 1) Blood Glucose, 2) Total
cholesterol, 3) Low Density Lipoprotein, and 6) Very Low Density Lipoprotein. The
Physiological Variables used were 1) Vital Capacity such as a) Forced Vital Capacity (FVC),
b) Forced Expiratory Volume in First Second (FEV1), c) Peak Expiratory Flow Rate, 2)
Systolic Blood Pressure, 3) Diastolic Blood Pressure, 4) Pulse Rate, 5) Rate Pressure
163
Product, 6) Respiratory Pressure such as a) Maximum Expiratory Pressure b) Maximum

Inspiratory Pressure c) and Breath Holding Time.
The tests selected for the study were standardized tests and most suitable for the
present study. The investigator was present with the subjects of the control group and the
experimental group during the experimentation of the pre test and the post test.
Estimation of biochemical variables and the blood samples were analyzed with the help
of lab technicians under the supervision of the biochemist and blood samples were analyzed
in the research laboratory of biochemistry, Jipmer, Puducherry, for the blood test standard
equipments, reagents and chemicals were used.
The physiological variables were tested in the research laboratory of Department of

Physiology, JIPMER, Puducherry. Sophisticated and computerized equipments were used to
assess the physiological variables.
The assessment of the psychological variables used in the present study are 1) Mental
health, 2) Self-concept and 3) Personality which are the standard tools. All the subjects were
motivated to give relevant data and co-operate to complete the psychological questionnaire.
All the questionnaires were administered by the researcher in person in a face to face
relationship and data were collected as per the programme fixed. The entire filled in
questionnaire were collected from the subjects and scored according to the scoring key. The
total scores obtained were tabulated and statistically treated to arrive at meaningful
conclusion.
Conclusions
Based on the research findings the following conclusions were drawn in the present
study.
1. The results of the biochemical variables like Blood Glucose, Triglycerides, High Density
Lipoprotein and Very Low Density Lipoprotein were not significantly different in the
164
pre test between the experimental and the control groups. Where as in the total
cholesterol and low density lipoprotein there is a significant difference in the pre test
control group.
2. The biochemical variables like Blood Glucose, Total Cholesterol, Triglycerides, Low
Density Lipoprotein and Very Low Density Lipoprotein have significantly decreased after
a period of twelve weeks of yogasanas, pranayama and meditation in the post test
experimental group when compared to the pre test control and experimental groups.
3. It is inferred that the yoga practice did not lead to significant changes in the High Density
Lipoprotein of the pre test and the post test control and the experimental groups and also
the adjusted post test mean.
4. The results of the study have shown that the Physiological Variables like Forced Vital
Capacity (FVC); Forced Vital Capacity First Second (FEV1) and Peak Expiratory Flow
Rate, Pulse Rate, Systolic Blood Pressure, Diastolic Blood Pressure and Rate Pressure
Product did not show any significant changes in the pre test control and experimental
groups. Where as in the Maximum Expiratory Pressure and Maximum Inspiratory
Pressure reveal that there existed significant changes in the pre test control and the
experimental groups..
5. In the Physiological Variables like Forced Vital Capacity, Forced Vital Capacity First
Second and Peak Expiratory Flow Rate, there is no significant increase in the post test
experimental group after the twelve weeks of yogasanas, pranayama and meditation
practice. But there is a significant change in the Adjusted post test mean.
6. In the Systolic Blood Pressure there is no significant difference in the pre test and post
test experimental group but in the Diastolic Blood Pressure there is significant difference
in the post test experimental group and the Adjusted post test mean.
7. The result indicates that the Maximum Expiratory Pressure, Maximum Inspiratory
Pressure, and Breath Holding Time could significantly increase in the post test
165
experimental group when compared to the post test control group after the twelve weeks
of yogasanas, pranayama and meditation practice.
8. The results of the psychological variables like Mental Health, Personality in Neurosis and
Extrovert, there is no significant difference between the pre test control and pre test
experimental group. Where as there is significant change is found in the Mental Health
of the post experimental and the Adjusted post test mean.
9. The Psychological Variables of Self-Concept the result reveals that there are no
significant differences in the pre test control and the experimental groups and also the post
test experimental group. But significant difference is seen in the Adjusted post test mean.
10. In the Personality - Neurosis, the result reveals that there are no significant differences in
the pre test, post test and the Adjusted post test mean.
11. In the Personality – Extrovert, the result reveals that there is no significant difference in
the pre test mean of the control and experimental groups. But the result shows significant
difference in the post test and Adjusted post test mean of the control and experimental
groups
Recommendations
Based on the results of the study, the following recommendations are made by the
present investigator.
1) Similar study is necessary to examine the effect of yogasanas, pranayama and

meditaion on biochemical, physiological and psychological variables for the different
age groups.
2) Further, similar research may be undertaken considering female students.
3) Similar study may also be conducted to find out the effects of yogasana, pranayama
and meditaion on other variables of biochemical, physiological and psychological
studies.
166
4) Similar study may be replicated with longer durations, different intensities of training
other than mentioned in the present study.
5) A continuous and regular yogasanas, pranayama, and meditation programme, in an

organized manner, has to be suggested for the occasional participants to obtain desired
results in their health related fitness.
APPENDIX I
Name, Age, Height, Weight of the Subjects of the Present Investigation of Control and Experimental Group
Control Group Experimental Group
Subject Age Weight Height Subject Age Height
Name Name Weight
No (Years) (Kg) (Cms) No (Years) (Cms)
1 Peter Fernandez. M 20 55 175 1 Swamynathan. D 20 62 183
2 Raymond. D 20 59 172 2 Thaimuthu. R 19 56 165
3 Franklin.D 19 55 172 3 Antony Kumar. S 21 62 172
4 Jocil. D 19 49 167 4 Deepak Rajan.S 19 52 174
5 Kannan. P 20 75 174 5 Gopi. S 18 55 175
6 Francis Xavier. A 18 66 181 6 John Suresh Raja, J 18 53 162
7 Gasper.M 20 60 164 7 John Paul Antony. R 18 67 183
8 Parthibhan. P 20 47 157 8 Amel Raj. A 19 50 175
9 Peter Paul. A 21 56 176 9 Thomas Magesh. S 20 59 172
10 Edwin Felix Raj. B 18 60 168 10 Micheal. A 23 59 170
11 Palanivel.G 22 67 169 11 Mahimai Savari.S 21 61 157
12 Rammano.V 21 65 173 12 Soundara Rajan. A 21 60 169
13 Joseph .R 19 60 168 13 Abel. L 20 59 177
14 Lumier. J 20 60 181 14 Stalin Anthuvan .A 19 59 178
15 Sathish.R 20 58 170 15 Aron. L 19 45 157
16 Sadhish Kadhane.D 22 69 176 16 Edward Frankly. I 21 58 168
17 Devanathan. M 20 80 179 17 Gubert. L 19 55 167
18 Maximillian Marie Kolbe 20 42 164 18 Antonty Desilva.D 18 55 167
178
19 Emmanuel. D 19 69 175 19 George. B 19 52 157
20 Balachandran. N 20 58 165 20 Leo Selva Raj.N 18 47 163
APPENDIX - II
CONSENT FORM FROM THE SUBJECTS FOR THEIR VOLUNTARY
PARTICIPATION IN THE PRESENT INVESTIGATION
Investigator : A. James
Thesis Advisor : Dr. D. Sakthignanavel
Title of the Investigation : Effect of Select Yogasanas, Pranayama, and

Meditation on Biochemical, Physiological
and Psychological Variables of Male
Students
I………………….Class……………Roll number…………….certify
that Mr. A. James, Lecturer in Physical Education, Pope John
Paul II College of Education has explained to me in detail the nature, purpose
and significance of the proposed investigation. I am aware of experimentation
of effect of yogasanas, pranayama and meditation on physiological variables
and the collection of blood samples for the test. I certify that I voluntarily
accepted to participate as one of the subjects in this study.
Place: Puducherry
S/d…
Date: Signature of Subject.
APPENDIX - III
Pre Test and Post Test score of the Biochemical Variables of the Control Group
SL. BLOOD TOTAL

NAME HDL - C LDL - C VLDL - C Triglycerides
NO GLUCOSE CHOLESTROL
Pre Test Post Test Pre Test Post Test Pre Test Post Test Pre Test Post Test Pre Test Post Test Pre Test Post Test
1. Peter Fernandez. M 87 76 160 130 42 36 139 116 21 22 105 112
2. Raymond. D 77 82 134 155 44 33 109 142 19 20 95 102
3. Franklin.D 103 80 140 127 36 43 126 107 22 23 112 116
4. Jocil. D 89 95 164 148 41 41 147 133 24 26 122 130
5. Kannan.P 74 69 120 135 39 27 101 129 20 21 101 107
6. Francis Xavier.A 88 93 192 160 43 38 168 141 19 19 93 96
7. Gasper. M 87 80 160 162 42 36 144 150 26 24 132 120
8. Parthibhan. P 86 79 153 155 44 53 135 129 26 27 128 136
9. Peter Paul. A 68 77 134 150 45 52 111 122 22 24 110 121
10. Edwin Felix Raj 97 92 122 116 34 36 111 106 23 26 115 128
11. Palanivel. G 80 83 129 145 39 33 117 140 27 28 135 142
12. Rammano. V 82 84 162 186 40 36 146 177 24 27 120 133
13. Joseph Maxmillian.R 83 84 162 164 43 57 141 130 22 23 111 115
14. Lumier. J 101 92 104 127 41 44 83 104 20 21 98 107
15. Sathish.R 74 79 157 157 37 46 143 132 23 21 114 105
16. Sadhish Kadhane.D 74 82 179 165 41 30 164 163 26 28 130 138
17. Devanathan.M 81 88 206 213 33 35 200 206 27 28 135 142
18. Maximillian Marie 88 75 167 170 46 42 139 147 18 19 88 96
180
19. Emmanuel .D 73 79 170 160 42 38 153 148 25 26 125 132
20. Balachandran. N 87 76 160 130 42 36 139 116 21 22 105 112
APPENDIX - III (Continued)
Pre Test and Post Test score of the Biochemical Variables of the Experimental Group
SL. BLOOD TOTAL

NAME HDL - C LDL - C VLDL - C Triglycerides
NO GLUCOSE CHOLESTROL
Pre Test Post Test Pre Test Post Test Pre Test Post Test Pre Test Post Test Pre Test Post Test Pre Test Post Test
1. Swamynathan. D 83 75 174 142 37 44 158 117 21 19 105 94
2. Thaimuthu. R 79 74 180 157 46 49 157 128 23 20 115 98
3. Antony Kumar. S 70 74 160 137 41 47 147 115 28 25 138 124
4. Deepak Rajan.S 91 76 143 171 47 40 124 157 28 26 140 132
5. Gopi. S 86 69 210 163 41 46 192 137 23 20 115 102
6. John Suresh Raja, J 88 77 186 150 48 40 157 126 19 16 96 81
7. John Paul Antony. R 87 95 198 176 38 42 181 153 21 19 106 93
8. Amel Raj. A 77 70 214 135 39 43 195 107 20 15 98 77
9. Thomas Magesh. S 69 70 172 147 47 50 147 122 22 25 110 125
10. Micheal. A 87 80 170 127 40 45 150 99 20 17 99 85
11. Mahimai Savari.S 82 89 220 193 39 43 209 177 28 27 142 133
12. Soundara Rajan. A 90 72 192 135 46 38 166 115 20 18 100 88
13. Abel. L 92 69 211 146 33 36 199 129 21 19 105 93
14. Stalin Anthuvan .A 82 74 210 150 33 34 205 143 28 26 142 130
15. Aron. L 78 69 142 114 29 35 136 99 23 20 113 102
16. Edward Frankly. I 87 69 180 146 38 44 166 124 24 22 118 108
17. Gubert. L 92 66 184 132 39 36 170 123 25 27 124 133
18. Antonty Desilva.D 97 83 143 146 32 40 131 125 20 19 102 95
181
19. George. B 90 75 140 120 31 45 129 93 20 18 99 88
20. Leo Selva Raj.N 90 69 161 125 43 49 142 99 24 23 122 115
APPENDIX- IV
Pre Test and Post Test score of the Physiological Variables of the Control Group
VITAL CAPACITY (litres) BLOOD PRESSURE MEP MIP Breath Holding

Pulse rate
Systolic Diastolic RPP
Sl. FVC FEV1 PEFR (BPM0 (mm Hg) (mm Hg)
(mm Hg) (mm Hg)
No
Pre Post Pre Post Pre Post Pre Post Pre Post Pre Post Pre Post Pre Post Pre Post Pre Post
Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test
1 3.12 3.45 3.04 3.18 410 482 100 90 70 70 68 70 68 63 60 80 60 40 74.00 48.49
2 2.54 2.97 2.54 2.71 354 311 120 110 86 86 60 74 72 81 40 60 40 50 59.00 57.16
3 3.90 3.59 3.41 3.29 377 528 98 120 60 70 76 70 74 84 60 70 50 90 62.00 53.47
4 2.55 2.99 2.55 2.71 344 385 90 96 60 66 64 69 75 70 90 80 100 60 48.80 48.09
5 3.40 3.52 3.40 3.47 351 415 132 106 86 70 68 76 89.8 81 50 80 70 40 58.08 53.40
6 2.72 2.96 2.42 3.51 323 331 114 100 76 70 88 84 100 84 60 70 40 50 41.94 48.08
7 2.82 2.81 2.82 2.81 481 441 100 104 66 70 62 68 60 71 40 40 60 40 39.84 57.61
8 2.52 2.46 2.46 2.56 343 386 90 96 60 66 64 69 42 66 80 90 100 140 57.64 48.00
9 2.84 2.79 2.89 3.09 330 410 98 100 68 70 84 80 82 80 80 70 50 100 62.00 71.00
10 3.03 3.18 3.03 3.13 422 292 110 108 80 60 64 88 70 95 50 40 70 70 72.00 84.00
11 2.35 2.57 2.35 2.52 397 265 106 126 70 88 82 67 87 88 60 80 30 60 30.88 44.09
12 3.31 3.37 3.13 3.22 568 585 126 122 88 85 84 82 106 100 60 60 60 70 51.50 53.08
13 2.49 2.56 2.39 2.52 366 358 134 120 75 80 63 70 84 84 60 60 60 60 44.58 66.00
14 2.70 2.80 2.30 2.61 502 533 138 120 60 74 73 64 101 77 20 50 50 30 20.26 34.97
15 2.94 2.98 2.94 3.03 491 576 112 110 64 70 64 64 72 70 40 60 40 50 36.15 37.44
16 2.87 2.92 2.87 2.97 328 413 114 130 90 90 64 64 72 83 40 40 70 90 32.84 51.24
17 3.17 3.26 2.90 3.22 400 330 126 132 72 86 85 80 107 106 40 70 30 40 37.78 39.27
18 2.45 2.61 2.45 2.56 390 409 102 100 56 70 66 77 67 77 60 60 30 40 36.79 48.10
182
19 3.31 3.29 2.90 3.01 542 480 122 110 67 68 64 68 78 75 60 80 120 130 40.26 54.92
20 2.76 2.62 2.76 2.82 386 422 135 124 87 88 75 71 101 88 60 80 40 60 27.93 31.03
APPENDIX - IV (Continued)
Pre Test and Post Test score of the Physiological Variables of the Experimental Group
VITAL CAPACITY (litres) BLOOD PRESSURE MEP MIP Breath Holding

Pulse rate
Systolic Diastolic RPP
Sl. FVC FEV1 PEFR (BPM0 (mm Hg) (mm Hg)
(mm Hg) (mm Hg)
No
Pre Post Pre Post Pre Post Pre Post Pre Post Pre Post Pre Post Pre Post Pre Post Pre Post
Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test Test
1 3.96 4.37 3.82 3.90 515 554 110 100 78 70 76 72 83.6 72.0 60 80 60 100 50.71 94.00
2 3.01 3.25 2.81 3.25 359 437 120 110 76 70 80 75 96.0 82.5 60 120 100 120 42.31 77.00
3 2.73 2.96 2.53 2.96 469 497 116 104 74 70 69 64 80.0 66.6 80 120 100 120 45.06 80.00
4 2.92 3.15 2.89 3.07 473 515 115 106 70 74 74 70 85.1 74.2 80 110 50 80 58.90 81.00
5 3.53 3.58 3.51 3.65 475 549 110 98 70 66 72 68 79.2 66.6 60 160 60 130 54.29 88.00
6 2.79 2.90 2.75 2.97 368 440 117 98 79 70 69 61 80.7 59.8 60 160 70 90 107.00 147.00
7 3.20 4.11 3.20 3.99 345 481 124 113 70 63 95 78 117.8 88.1 40 80 60 100 58.48 126.00
8 2.81 2.92 2.81 2.98 408 476 110 100 70 60 76 68 83.6 68.0 110 130 100 110 47.98 75.00
9 3.30 3.48 3.20 3.38 408 465 130 120 84 65 76 72 98.8 86.4 100 160 80 110 61.00 103.00
10 3.39 3.64 3.19 3.54 348 376 110 112 80 70 74 65 81.4 61.6 60 80 30 90 44.99 99.00
11 2.41 2.59 2.35 2.58 307 390 130 110 88 84 84 80 109.2 88.0 90 120 95 120 56.00 82.00
12 2.95 3.25 2.89 3.16 511 551 120 116 70 60 88 80 105.6 92.8 80 130 100 140 113.00 162.00
13 3.27 3.66 3.20 3.55 379 413 120 110 80 70 78 76 93.6 83.6 70 140 80 80 55.00 75.00
14 3.59 3.84 3.45 3.82 463 527 104 96 70 68 72 66 74.9 63.4 110 140 120 140 37.35 187.00
15 2.03 2.37 2.00 2.39 263 451 110 106 80 66 66 60 72.6 63.3 40 90 30 60 29.97 58.52
16 3.14 3.38 3.12 3.47 350 430 110 100 74 70 64 62 70.4 62.0 80 130 100 110 80.00 155.00
17 2.83 3.13 2.79 3.01 458 492 94 90 70 66 74 70 69.6 63.0 100 130 90 120 27.28 89.00
18 2.43 2.67 2.39 2.63 535 549 124 108 67 64 71 68 88.0 73.4 80 110 60 70 33.95 84.00
19 2.33 2.54 2.33 2.51 395 425 115 100 68 62 73 70 84.0 70.0 60 100 70 120 22.20 68.00
183
20 2.44 2.80 2.44 2.80 434 475 116 111 80 70 80 73 92.8 81.0 60 110 50 60 27.86 81.00
APPENDIX - V
Pre Test and Post Test score of the Psychological Variables of the Control Group
Mental Health Self- Concept Personality

Sl.
Name Neurosis Extravert
No Pre Test Post test Pre Test Post Test
Pre Test Post Test Pre Test Post Test
1. Peter Fernandez. M 57 59 180 185 13 15 12 11
2. Raymond. D 63 65 163 167 19 12 16 14
3. Franklin.D 63 66 171 175 15 12 9 11
4. Jocil. D 67 59 164 181 15 13 13 11
5. Kannan. P 56 52 155 166 13 13 9 10
6. Francis Xavier. A 51 53 162 167 10 5 13 11
7. Gasper.M 65 69 171 177 9 7 14 16
8. Parthibhan. P 71 75 176 181 11 10 14 17
9. Peter Paul. A 59 63 167 172 9 11 11 14
10. Edwin Felix Raj. B 61 63 165 170 17 19 10 9
11. Palanivel.G 51 54 173 168 15 17 14 15
12. Rammano.V 63 60 187 162 11 15 17 18
13. Joseph .R 67 69 177 182 12 12 14 16
14. Lumier. J 48 54 164 170 11 15 13 12
15. Sathish.R 68 65 186 195 11 8 19 16
16. Sadhish Kadhane.D 55 57 165 169 21 23 14 12
17. Devanathan. M 66 69 168 171 6 8 14 16
18. Maximillian Marie Kolbe 71 72 189 174 10 8 13 11
19. Emmanuel. D 57 54 162 169 12 10 13 15
184
20. Balachandran. N 52 55 163 168 15 17 15 18
APPENDIX - V (Continued)
Pre Test and Post Test score of the Psychological Variables of the Experimental Group
Mental Health Self- Concept Personality

Sl.
Name Neurosis Extravert
No Pre Test Post test Pre Test Post Test
Pre Test Post Test Pre Test Post Test
1. Swamynathan. D 60 67 180 189 10 7 14 18
2. Thaimuthu. R 71 78 185 192 13 10 11 15
3. Antony Kumar. S 62 71 163 172 15 16 8 17
4. Deepak Rajan.S 59 66 161 172 14 11 11 16
5. Gopi. S 61 59 170 167 9 7 14 19
6. John Suresh Raja, J 60 67 162 171 13 11 16 20
7. John Paul Antony. R 59 68 168 181 20 22 11 14
8. Amel Raj. A 57 67 158 170 11 13 13 18
9. Thomas Magesh. S 45 49 141 150 11 7 12 17
10. Micheal. A 63 71 160 169 19 16 16 19
11. Mahimai Savari.S 63 72 171 176 12 10 11 15
12. Soundara Rajan. A 73 80 191 198 4 4 12 18
13. Abel. L 62 71 174 195 19 17 15 20
14. Stalin Anthuvan .A 55 59 158 164 11 9 16 20
15. Aron. L 66 73 179 183 10 8 7 10
16. Edward Frankly. I 60 67 170 182 14 16 13 15
17. Gubert. L 53 67 177 194 16 10 16 20
185
18. Antonty Desilva.D 62 69 176 182 12 8 11 16
19. George. B 61 73 171 180 11 7 13 15
20. Leo Selva Raj.N 59 75 182 175 8 8 10 17
186
APPENDIX - VI
Personal Data
PONDICHERRY UNIVERSITY
Department of Physical Education and Sports
Dear Students,
This questionnaire booklet forms a part of my Ph.D., research work. I am conducting

an investigation to explore a few selected psychological aspects of college men students in
Pondicherry. In this connection I seek your kind help and co-operation. Please feel free and
be frank in giving answers. I honestly; assure you that your information will be kept strictly
confidential and used for academic purposes only.
Yours faithfully,
Dr. D. Sakthignanavel (A. JAMES)

(Guide) Research Scholar
PERSONAL DATA
Please furnish correct information for the following:
1. Name :
2. Age :
3. Class :
4. Name of the College :

187
APPENDIX - VII
QUESTIONNAIRE – I
TRIER PERSONALITY INVENTORY FOR MENTAL HEALTH
Instructions
This questionnaire contains 20 statements and each statement has four answer
categories namely ‘Always’, ’Often’, ‘Sometimes’ and ‘Never’. There are four boxes against
each statement. Read each statement carefully and express your most appropriate answer by
placing a cross ( X ) in one of the four boxes. Answer all the statements.
Example: Always Often Sometimes Never
1. It is ….. easy for me to keep my mind on a X

task
Statements Always Often Sometimes Never
1. When something important has to be
decided, I….Know exactly what I want.
2. I…..feel that I am well-matched for life

and its difficulties.
3. I…feel inferior to other people.
4. I am……well able to represent my own

interests.
5. I am …..Successful in business and
personal matters.
6. I……. allow myself to be easily
influenced by others.
7. I……have a feeling of passivity and inner
emptiness.
8. I…..view the future with complete
confidence.
9. When I encounter a difficult situation,
I……trust my ability to master it.
10. I feel full of energy and enterprise.
188
Statements Always Often Sometimes Never
11. I….feel somewhat awkward among others.
12. My mood is…….good.
13. I….have an inferiority complex.
14. I am….in good physical and mental

condition.
15. It is…true that I can’t stand myself.
16. I…have the feeling that things are too

much for me.
17. I am…….successful in satisfying my
needs.
18. I…….act by the motto that I am
responsible for my own happiness.
19. It’s hard for me to keep my mind on a

task or a job.
20. I …….let myself be easily intimated by
others.
189
APPENDIX - VIII
QUESTIONNAIRE – II
SELF-CONCEPT SCALE
Instructions:
Here are given fifty one statements and each statement has given five responses
(Strongly Agree, Agree, Undecided, Disagree and Strongly Disagree). Please read each
statement carefully and respond to it by marking a tick () on any of the five responses
given. If you really strongly agree with the statement, mark () on ‘Strongly Agree’; if
you only agree with the statement, mark () on ‘Agree’ and so on. There is no right or wrong
response. Try to give your response according to what you feel about yourself in
reference to that statement.
Statements Strongly Strongly

Agree Undecided Disagree
Agree Disagree
1. In General, I believe, I am fairly;

worthwhile person.
2. I like and feel pretty good towards

myself.
3. I worry over humiliating situations

more than most persons.
4. I can perform my best in a vocation
or job against an opponent who is
much superior to me.
5. I often feel that my movements are
clumsy
6. I think I have an attractive

personality.
7. If given a chance, I could do
something that would be of much
benefit to the world.
8. I tend to be quick and certain in my

action
9. I think of myself as a successful
person.
10. At times I am uncharitable to those

who love me.
190
Strongly Agree Undecided Disagree Strongly

Statements Agree Disagree
11. Sometimes I feel depressed for no

apparent reason at all.
12. I frequently feel thwarted because I
am unable to do as I desire.
13. I often feel I get blamed or punished

when I don’t deserve it.
14. I find it hard to continue work when I
do not get enough encouragement.
15. When upset emotionally I take much

time to recover.
16. I find it hard to do my best when

people are watching.
17. At times I indulge in false excuses to
get out of things.
18. I prefer not to spend much time
dwelling on the past.
19. I am unwanted by those, I feel, are
important to me.
20. I am satisfied to a large extend about
my sex matters.
21. I become upset by criticism even if it
is good or meant well.
22. I look forward to prepare myself to
attend what I intended to.
23. My greatest weakness is that I find
difficult to complete my work
without assistance from others.
24. It is my conviction that people in
general tend to grow more
conservative after the age of forty.
25. I am as good as anyone else.

191
Statements Strongly Agree Undecided Disagree Strongly

Agree Disagree
26. If I was young again I would try
to do the thing which I could not
do earlier.
27. The members of my family often
take advice and suggestion from
me for overall matters.
28. When things go wrong I pity or

blame myself.
29. I sometimes think or imagine of

performing sexual act that many
people consider unnatural.
30. I certainly feel useless at times.
31. I spend much of the time

worrying over the future.
32. I find difficult to control my

weight.
33. I can always hear and see things
as well as most other people.
34. I don’t get invited out by friends

as often as I would really like.
35. At times I brag about my

qualities before others.
36. I am fairly able to recall the

significant events of my early
childhood.
37. I can recover easily and quickly
from social blunders.
38. I frequently fail to recollect

several things which I am to do.
39. I have several times given up

doing a thing because I thought to
little of my ability.
192
Statements Strongly Agree Undecided Disagree Strongly

Agree Disagree
40. I see it is a bad mistake to
spend most of my time
worrying for the future, instead
I prefer to try to find some
pleasure in every present
moment.
41. I am often in low spirit.
42. It is very important to me to

feel that what I am doing is
very worthwhile or meaningful.
43. I enjoy mixing with people.
44. I can tackle new situations with

reasonable degree of assurance.
45. At times I feel a painful sense

of loneliness and want very
much to share an experience
with someone else.
46. I can almost always go to sleep
at night without any difficulty.
47. When luck turns against me I
pray God to make it in favor of
me.
48. Sometimes I would become a
respectable person of society.
49. I believe that everyone is

responsible for that he is as for
what he does.
50. I deserve severe punishment
for my sins.
51. I usu ally pre fer to do
things in tried way rather
than experimenting new
and different ways .
193
APPENDIX - IX
QUESTIONNAIRE - III
EYSENCK PERSONALITY INVENTORY
INSTRUCTIONS:
There are 57 questions given below followed by ‘yes’ or ‘No’ responses for each
statement. If your answer is ‘Yes’ tick () the word ‘Yes’. If your answer is ‘No’ tick ()
the word ‘No’. There is no right or wrong answers.
1. Do you often long for excitement? Yes No
2. Do you often need understanding friends to cheer you up? Yes No
3. Are you usually carefree? Yes No
4. Do you find it very hard to take no for an answer? Yes No
5. Do you stop and think things over before doing anything?

Yes No
6. If you say you will do something do you always keep your
Yes No
promise, no matter how inconvenient it might be to do so?
7. Does your mood often go up and down? Yes No
8. Do you generally do and say things quickly without stopping Yes No

to think?
9. Do you ever feel “just miserable” for no good reason? Yes No
10. Would you do almost anything for a dare? Yes No
11. Do you suddenly feel shy when you want to talk to an Yes No
attractive stranger?
12. Once in a while do you lose your temper and get angry? Yes No
13. Do you often do things on the spur of the moment? Yes No
14. Do you often worry about things you should not have done or
Yes No
said?
15. Generally, do you prefer reading to meeting people? Yes No
16. Are your feelings rather easily hurt? Yes No

194
17. Do you like going out a lot?

Yes No
18. Do you occasionally have thoughts and ideas that you
would not like other people to know about? Yes No
19. Are you sometimes bubbling over with energy and sometimes Yes No
very Sluggish?
20. Do you prefer to have few but special friends? Yes No
21. Do you daydream a lot? Yes No
22. When people shout at you, do you shout back? Yes No
23. Are you often troubled about feelings of guilt? Yes No
24. Are all your habits good and desirable ones?

Yes No
25. Can you usually let yourself go and enjoy yourself a lot at a Yes No
gay party?
26. Would you call yourself tense or “highly strung”? Yes No
27. Do other people think of you as being very lively? Yes No
28. After you have done something important, do you often come
Yes No
away feeling you could have done better?
29. Are you mostly quit when you are with other people? Yes No
30. Do you sometimes gossip? Yes No
31. Do ideas run through your head so that you cannot sleep?
Yes No
32. If there is something you want to know about would you
Yes No
rather look it up in a book than talk to someone about it?
33. Do you get palpitations or thumping in your heart? Yes No
34. Do you like the kind of work that you need to pay close
attention to? Yes No
35. Do you get attacks of shaking or trembling? Yes No
36. Would you always declare everything at the customs, even if

Yes No
you knew that you could never be found out?
195
37. Do you hate being with a crowd who play jokes on one
Yes No
another?
38. Are you an irritable person? Yes No
39. Do you like doing things in which you have to act quickly Yes No
40. Do you worry about awful things that might happen? Yes No
41. Are you allow and unhurried in the way you move? Yes No
42. Have you ever been late for an appointment or work? Yes No
43. Do you have many nightmares? Yes No
44. Do you like talking to people so much that you never miss a
Yes No
chance of talking to a stranger?
45. Are you trouble by aches and pains? Yes No
46. Would you be very unhappy if you could not see lots of
Yes No
people most of the time?
47. Would you call yourself a nervous person? Yes No
48. Of all the people you know, are there some whom you Yes No
definitely do not like?
49. Would you say that you were fairly self-confident? Yes No
50. Are you easily hurt when people find fault with you or your Yes No
work?
51. Do you find it hard to really enjoy yourself at lovely party? Yes No
52. Are you troubled with feelings of inferiority? Yes No
53. Can you easily get some life into a rather dull party? Yes No
54. Do you sometimes talk things you know nothing about? Yes No
55. Do you worry about your health? Yes No
56. Do you like playing pranks on others? Yes No
57. Do you suffer from sleeplessness? Yes No

196
APPENDIX – X
EFFECT OF SELECT YOGASANAS, PRANAYAMA AND

MEDITATION ON BIOCHEMICAL, PHYSIOLOGICAL AND
PSYCHOLOGICAL VARIABLES OF
MALE STUDENTS
TRAINING PROGRAMME
Duration : 12 weeks
Time : 40 minutes
Days : Five days per week
First and Second Weeks

ASANAS (25 minutes)
1. Savasana
2. Halasana
3. Chakrasana
4. Bhujangasana
5. Viparitakarani
6. Dhanurasana
7. Makarasana
8. Ustrasana
9. Matsyasana
10. Bakasana
11. Ssavasana
PRANAYAMA (10 minutes)
1. Kapalabhati - 30 strocks
2. Nadi Sodhana - 1 time
3. Sitakari - 1:1:1
4. Ujjayi - 1:1:1
MEDITATION (5 minutes)
197
Third and Fourth Weeks
ASANAS (25 minutes)
1. Savasana
2. Halasana
3. Chakrasana
4. Paschimothanasana
5. Bhujangasana
6. Viparitakarani
7. Dhanurasana
8. Matsyasana
9. Yoga Mudhra
10. Ustrasana
11. Pada Hasthasana
12. Bakasana
13. Savasana
1. Kapalabhati - 35 strocks / Minutes x 2 times

2. Nadi Sodhana - 2 times
3. Sitakari - 1 : 2 : 1 x 2 times
4. Ujjayi - 1 : 2 : 1 x 2 times
198
Fifth and Sixth Weeks

ASANAS (25 minutes)
1. Savasana
2. Halasana
3. Chakrasana
4. Janu sirasana
5. Bhujangasana
6. Saravangasana
7. Dhanurasana
8. Makarasana
9. Yoga Mudhra
10.Supta Vajrasana
11. Pada Hasthasana
12. Konasana
13. Navasana
14. Bakasana
15. Matayasana
16.Trikonasana
17.Savasana
1. Kapalabhati - 40 strocks / Minutes x 2 times

2. Bhramari - 2 times
3. Nadi Sodhana - 1 : 2 : 2 : 1 x 2 times
3 . Sitakari - 1:2:2:1 x 2 times
4. Ujjayi - 1 : 2 : 1 /Jalandhara-bandha x 1 time
5. Sitali - 1 ::2 : 1
MEDITATION (5minutes)
199
Seventh and Eigth Weeks

ASANAS (25 minutes)
1. Savasana
2. Halasana
3. Chakrasana
4. Janu sirasana
5. Bhujangasana
6. Saravangasana
7. Dhanurasana
8. Bakasana
9. Yoga Mudhra
10. Supta Vajrasana
11. Pada Hasthasana
12. Konasana
13. Mayurasana
14. Navasana
15. Matayasana
16. Gomukhasana
17.Savasana
1. Kapalabhati - 50 strocks / minutes x 2 times

2. Bhramari - 2 times
3. Surya Bhedana - 1 : 1 : 1 or 1 : 2 : 2
4. Sitali - 1 : 2 : 2 : 1 x 2 times
5. Ujjayi - Jalandhara and Moola bhandha
200
Ninth and Tenth Weeks
ASANAS (25 minutes)
1. Savasana
2. Halasana
3. Chakrasana
4. Janu sirasana
5. Bhujangasana
6. Saravangasana
7. Dhanurasana
8. Gomukhasana Bakasana
9. Yoga Mudhra
10. Supta Vajrasana
11. Pada Hasthasana
12. Konasana
13. Mayurasana
14. Navasana
15. Ardha Vrchikasana
16. Bakasana
17. Salabhasana
18. Savasana
1. Kapalabhati - 50 strocks / minutes X1 time

2. Bhastrika - 30 strocks / minutes x 2 times
3 Surya Bhedana - 1: 2: 2
4. Chandra Bhedma - 1: 2: 2
5. Bharamari - 1: 1: 1
6. Sitali - 2: 4: 2
MEDITATION (5 minutes) - AUM

201
Eleventh and Twelfth weeks
ASANAS (25 minutes)
1. Savasana
2. Chakrasana
3. Bhujangasana
4. Saravangasana
5. Dhanurasana
6. Yoga Mudhra
7. Kansana
8. Navasana
9. Uttib padmasana / Bakasana
10. Salabhasana
11. Trikonasana
12. Matayasana
13. Janusirangasana
14. Sasangasana
15. Savasana
1. Kapalabhati - 50 strocks / Minutes x 1 time

2. Bhastrika - 40 strocks / Minutes x 1time
3. Nadi Sodhana - 1 : 4 : 2 : 1 x 1 time
4. Ujjayi - 1 : 4 : 2 : 1 x 1 time
5. Sitali - 1 : 4 : 2 : 1 / Minutes x 1 time
6. Sitakari - 1 : 4 : 2 : 1 time
MEDITATION (5 minutes) - AUM

Effect of Select Yogasanas, Pranayama and Meditation On Biochemical, Physiological and ... PDF

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Effect of Select Yogasanas, Pranayama and Meditation On Biochemical, Physiological and ... PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

EFFECT OF SELECT YOGASANAS, PRANAYAMA AND MEDITATION

ON BIOCHEMICAL, PHYSIOLOGICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL

DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND SPORTS

This is to certify that the dissertation entitled, “EFFECT OF SELECT

YOGASANAS, PRANAYAMA AND MEDITATION ON BIOCHEMICAL,

PHYSIOLOGICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL VARIABLES OF MALE

STUDENTS”, submitted for the award of Ph.D., Degree in physical education at

Pondicherry University, is a record of independent research work done by the candidate

degree, diploma, associateship, fellowship or any other similar title.

Place: Puducherry (D. SAKTHIGNANAVEL)

and Meditation on Biochemical, Physiological and Psychological Variables of College Male

Students” being submitted to the Pondicherry University, in partial fulfillment of the

the Department of Physical Education and Sports, Pondicherry University, is a bonafide

work done by me under the guidance of Dr. D. SAKHIGNANAVEL, Reader, Department

any other similar title of any candidate of any university or institution.

Place : Puducherry (A. JAMES)

Name of the Author : A. JAMES

Place of Birth : Kodungal

School and College Attended

St. Xavier’s High School, Mugaiyur.

St. Dominic Savio Hr.Sec. School, Chetpet.

Tagore Arts College, Puducherry.

Y.M.C.A. College of Physical Education, Chennai.

Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai.

Bachelor of Arts, 1991, Pondicherry University, Puducherry.

Bachelor of Physical Education, 1993, University of Madras, Chennai.

Master of Physical Education, 1994, Madurai Kamaraj

Diploma in Scientific Yoga and Meditation , 1994,

Master of Philosophy in Physical Education, 2000, Annamalai

Awards and Honours

Participated in inter-collegiate Table Tennis tournament organized by the University of

Served as Physical Education Teacher in Petit Seminaire Higher Secondary School,

Serving as Lecturer in Physical Education in Pope John Paul II College of Education,

The researcher expresses his sincere thanks to Dr. P. K. SUBRAMANIAM, Head

My sincere thanks goes to Dr. CLEMENT SAGAYARADJA LOURDES,

The investigator’s deep sense of gratitude to Dr. SULTANA, Reader,

LIST OF TABLES xiii

Statement of the Problem 21

II REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE 35

IV ANALYSIS OF THE DATA AND RESULTS OF THE STUDY 93

IV Pre Test and Post Test Score of Physiological Variables 182

V Pre Test and Post Test Score of the Psychological 184

VII Trier Personality Inventory for the Mental Health 187

VIII Self-Concept Scale 189

IX Eysenck Personality Inventory 193

X Schedule for the Twelve weeks of Yogasanas, 196

Table Title Page

I Test for Biochemical, Psychological and Psychological 71

LIST OF TABLES (Continued)

Table Title Page

Figure Title Page

I General Structure of Lipoprotein 13

II Transport Cholesterol and Lipoprotein between Tissues 16

IV Recording of Physiological Variables by using 79

V Recording of Vital Capacity by using Computerized 80

VI The Investigator is checking the Blood pressure, both the 81

VII Recording of Respiratory pressure by using Mercury 83

VIII Recording of Breath Holding Time by using a Stop 84

IX The subject is performing the Halasana 88

X The subject is performing the Mayurasana 89

XI The subject is performing the Nadi Sodhana Pranayama 89

XII The subject is performing the Bhramari Pranayama 90