From Apprehension to Acceptance: Exploring Veterans' Perspectives on a Community-Led Yoga Intervention for PTSD

This qualitative study explored the perceived expectations, benefits, and challenges of a 12-week community mindfulness-based yoga program for U.S. military veterans with PTSD symptoms. Although yoga has shown promise in reducing PTSD, depression, and anxiety symptoms among veterans, barriers to engagement persist, particularly concerning psychological perceptions of complementary and integrative health approaches. Our study builds on prior feasibility research by assessing veterans' subjective experiences through a focus group conducted after program completion. Twelve veterans were recruited for the intervention, with six participating in the focus group. Upon intervention completion, participants were asked about their perceptions of the program, including benefits and challenges, in addition to ability to cope with physiological PTSD symptoms. Thematic content analysis of the focus group transcripts revealed that the group exhibited initial apprehension, particularly centered around whether yoga was an appropriate form of exercise for veterans given stereotypes related to the practice. Nevertheless, participants described feelings of empowerment and increased self-efficacy upon leaving the program. Endorsed challenges included anxiety and avoidance, which served as barriers to attending. Participants did not explicitly report gaining control over physiological PTSD symptoms; rather, they emphasized that the program helped them overcome mental barriers and fostered acceptance rather than rigid control. Throughout, the program was identified as filling an unmet need for the veteran community. Findings suggest that veterans perceive a unique utility of community-based yoga programs. Specifically, the intervention promoted engagement in self-care, which, in turn, may help the ability to cope with PTSD symptoms.