Yoga: A Multi-Dimensional Therapeutic Approach to Autism Spectrum Disorder

Yoga: A Multi-Dimensional Therapeutic Approach to Autism Spectrum Disorder

Kankan Gulati, Praerna H. Bhargav, Shalu Elizabeth Abraham, Hemant Bhargav
Copyright: © 2021 |Pages: 30
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-7998-3254-6.ch021
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Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental disorder, manifests as impairment in social communication an interaction with restrictive and repetitive patterns of behaviour. Yoga therapy, a mind-body intervention, employs a multi-dimensional approach to reduce psychological distress and bring balance and harmony at the levels of body, breath and mind through physical postures, breathing practices, chanting, and relaxation techniques, respectively, thus enhancing overall well-being. Various yoga studies have shown promise in improving symptoms of ASD by improvement in sensory processing, gross motor skills, balance and coordination, cognition, imitation skills, and the ability to connect in relationships. This chapter aims to provide an overview of the potential role of Yoga therapy in the management of ASDs with emphasis on future standardized yoga trials with robust methodology and long-term follow-ups to establish the clinical utility of Yoga therapy for the same. Also, a tentative yoga lifestyle module for ASD with necessary contra-indications and practical tips has been provided.
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Causes

ASD is considered to be a multifactorial disease (Akshoomoff et al., 2002) and includes various genetic, biological and environmental risk factors (Hallmayer et al., 2011).

Genetic Factors

Recent neuroimaging studies on ASD has helped to evolve a better understanding of the genetic basis of brain development and also the structural and functional abnormalities associated with it (Berg & Dobyns, 2015). Previous studies on twins and families suggest that genetic factors play a dominant role, like a child having a sibling with ASD is reported to be at higher risk of developing ASD (Korvatska et al., 2002; Spence, 2004). Genetic defects give rise to abnormal molecular brain growth factors causing developmental dysregulation and also result in anatomical abnormalities (Akshoomoff et al., 2002). It has been found that individuals with genetic or chromosomal conditions like fragile X syndrome or tuberous sclerosis are more susceptible to develop ASD (Cohen et al., 2005; Hall et al., 2008).

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