Pranayama as a Monotherapy to Manage the Symptoms of Dissociative (Conversion) Disorders Among Girls and Women: A Case Series.

Abstract

Objective: This case series is an inaugural attempt to provide a feasible management plan for symptoms of dissociative (conversion) disorders among adolescent girls and women using pranayama, a systematic and rhythmic yogic breathing technique. Dissociative disorders are frequently reported among adolescent girls and women across different cultures and states in India. The neurobiology of dissociative disorders is not clearly understood. Hence, there is no effective medication available. There are no scientific reports available on the use of pranayama for dissociative disorders.

Methods: This study presents three female patients (aged 17 years, 26 years, and 14 years) who underwent pranayama therapy instead of conventional management in outpatient settings for four weeks. A pranayama intervention module was designed based on their specific symptoms, using the Dissociative Experiences Measurement Oxford (DEMO) scale. After four weeks, the results were documented, and all three patients were advised to continue the daily practice of pranayama for 30 minutes in the morning and evening.

Results: All three patients reported improvement in breathlessness, restlessness, sleep, focus and concentration, feeling numb and disconnected, memory blanks, and vivid internal world. A follow-up was done after four weeks of completion of the pranayama intervention. No adverse effects were noted during the four weeks of intervention and at follow-up.

Conclusion: This case series testifies to the potential efficacy of pranayama intervention in managing the symptoms of dissociative disorders among adolescent girls and women. Further studies are required on a large sample size to validate the role of pranayama in the management of symptoms of dissociative disorders as an independent intervention.