Implementation and evaluation of an integrated ayurveda-yoga education program for lifestyle modifications among...

This study evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of implementing a virtual six-week Ayurveda-Yoga education program designed to promote lifestyle modifications and support cancer-related symptom management.

A clinical program focused on Ayurveda was developed at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Patients aged 18 years and older with a cancer diagnosis were eligible to participate. The program offered weekly one-hour sessions, delivered via Zoom, over six weeks and facilitated by an Ayurvedic physician and a yoga therapist. Educational content included Ayurvedic nutrition and lifestyle principles, stress management, and approaches to managing common cancer-related symptoms, along with guided yoga practices. A retrospective analysis of program evaluation data was conducted, including class attendance records, Zoom poll responses assessing satisfaction and perceived benefits, and brief participant interviews to further explore experiences with the program.

From April 2024 to April 2025, three six-week Ayurveda-Yoga education programs were conducted, enrolling 36 participants. Each session, on average, had 8.4 participants, and 29 (80.6%) attended 3 or more sessions. Among Zoom poll respondents, 89% (24/27) were extremely satisfied, 85% (23/27) found the program extremely valuable, and 81% (21/26) were extremely likely to recommend the program. Regarding participant-reported experiences 88% (22/25) strongly agreed that the program helped them gain knowledge to support healthy diet and lifestyle choices, while 69% (18/26) strongly agreed that it helped them gain knowledge related to symptom management, reduce stress (73% [19/26]), and improve overall health and well-being (77% [20/26]). Qualitative interviews (N = 20) further highlighted themes of increased daily mindfulness, healthier lifestyle behaviors, and use of self-care tools for stress and symptom management.

This virtual, group-based Ayurveda-Yoga education program was feasible to implement and highly acceptable to participants. It was well received, with high satisfaction and positive participant-reported experiences. These findings are consistent with the potential for integration of this program model into supportive cancer care settings. Further research using rigorous study designs is needed to evaluate clinical effectiveness and outcomes.