Therapeutic Sunbathing in Yoga and Naturopathy Hospitals: Establishing National Standards through the Delphi Methodology.

Background: Sunlight offers significant health benefits; however, its therapeutic use among yoga and naturopathy physicians varies across India owing to differences in state regulations and training patterns. This study aimed to establish consensus-based guidelines for therapeutic sunbathing using the Delphi method.

Methods: This three-round Delphi study enrolled 25 yoga and naturopathy physicians, after obtaining ethical approval and informed consent. In Round 1, qualitative data were gathered through open-ended questions. In Round 2, key components were rated and ranked using a Likert scale. In Round 3, the focus was on building consensus on items that had 50%-70% agreement from Round 2.

Results: A total of 17 physicians completed all rounds. Consensus was reached on the definition, alternative names, types, indications, contraindications, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and adverse events associated with therapeutic sunbathing. Key findings included agreement on sunbathing duration of 20 minutes and preferred times of day (early morning and late afternoon). Comprehensive SOPs were developed for preoperative, operative, and postoperative procedures. High consensus was also achieved on the indications and contraindications of therapeutic sunbathing for various body systems.

Conclusion: In this study, standardized guidelines for therapeutic sunbathing were successfully developed, addressing the variability in practice owing to regional training differences. These guidelines emphasize safe and effective sun exposure practices tailored to patient needs and conditions, aligning with existing literature. To the authors' knowledge, this Delphi study is the first to provide comprehensive guidelines for therapeutic sunbathing in yoga and naturopathy, promoting standardized, evidence-based practices that enhance safety and efficacy. These guidelines should be personalized and adapted to evolving scientific evidence for optimal therapeutic outcomes.