The Impact of Kinesiological Analysis of Suryanamaskar on Female Infertility: A Systematic Review from Ayurvedic and Modern Medical Perspectives

Abstract

Introduction: Female infertility is a complex global women's health issue that can be managed utilising ART, which can deplete one financially and emotionally. Suryanamaskar (SN), a traditional yogic practice, is gaining popularity as an adjunct therapy. This review is distinct in its integration of literature using the kinesiological approach to dissect SN's physical movements and match them with potential physiological and Ayurvedic adaptations for promoting women’s reproductive health.

Methods: The PRISMA guideline was followed for a systematic literature search in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, AYUSH Research Portal, and IndMED from inception to October 2023. We included studies addressing the effects of SN on parameters determining female infertility (hormonal profile, regularity of menses, ovulation, and stress factors, pregnancy rates). Data were extracted about kinesiological elements, outcome measures, and theoretical mechanisms.

Results: Thirteen studies (n= 7 RCTS, 4 pre-post, 2 observational) were eligible for inclusion. According to kinesiology, the sequential nature of SN's flow promotes dynamic stretching, controlled strengthening (especially through core and pelvic musculature), mild cardiovascular exertion, and conscious breathing. Current physiological models propose that these factors in turn lead to: 1) low cortisol and regulation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, 2) increased blood flow to the region supporting improving ovarian and uterine function, 3). influence reproductive hormone levels, for example, estrogen or progesterone. Ayurvedic significance of SN is believed to act as Vata-hara (balance the Dosha that governs movement and circulation), provoking Agni (metabolic fire, hence clearing channels (Srotas), nourishing and increasing Artava Dhatu (reproductive tissues).

Discussion: Kinesiological breakdown. The kinesiological decomposition of SN provides a theoretical framework that can explain its effects. The postures together massage and stimulate the endocrine system, balance autonomic nervous system tone, and improve healthy levels of fitness. The synthesis of Ayurvedic concepts provides an integrated model that can supplement the biomedical interpretations. The available literature is, however, limited by small sample sizes, variability of SN protocols, and lack of long-term follow-up.

Conclusion: The kinesiological interpretation of Suryanamaskar reveals it as a multicomponent mind-body intervention with potential in serving as an adjunct therapy for female infertility. Its ingredients seem to collectively tackle major pathological factors such as stress, anovulation, and pelvic circulatory disorders. It is an established fact that the effects of complementary therapies like SN practice are holistic, and therefore, large-scale RCTs maintaining standard SN protocol with both biomedical and Ayurvedic therapies would help to find out the complete therapeutic role of SN.