Impact of Virtual Yoga on Management of Sleep and Anxiety in Persons with Vision Impairment

Abstract

The goal of this research was to assess the effects of virtual yoga on sleep and anxiety in persons with vision impairment. This study was a quasi-experimental single group design. Thirteen participants engaged in a six-week Hatha yoga experience with weekly sessions presented on a zoom platform with the recorded sessions provided to the participants after each session. Participants completed self-report assessments for sleep quality and anxiety, pre and post intervention. Wilcoxon Signed Ranks tests revealed significant improvements in both outcomes. Participants reported other positive outcomes from this experience, including opportunities for peer support, socialization, and the ability to exercise within the safety of their home environment.

Keywords:

• Anxiety
• sleep
• virtual
• vision impairment
• yoga

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this paper.

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Michelle Dowling

Michelle has been an occupational therapist for 30 years. She has certifications in hand therapy, low vision and yoga. She completed her clinical doctorate in occupational therapy at the University of Alabama Birmingham. Michelle is a full time assistant professor at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.

Laura Vogtle

Laura has been an occupational therapist for 52 years, with 26 years of clinical experience in pediatric rehabilitation. She completed her PhD in educational research at the University of Virginia, and is a University of Alabama at Birmingham where she has worked for 27 years, currently as professor emeritus.