'A softening of edges': a comparison of yoga classes at palliative care services

Although the use of yoga as a complementary therapy is common in palliative care, there is little evidence regarding current practice to inform service provision and research. The aim was to explore and compare yoga classes offered by palliative care services in New Delhi and London. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with yoga teachers and participants at two services and analysed thematically. Participants were: in Delhi eight family carers, three patients, and two teachers; in London six patients, one teacher, and one assistant. Six key themes are described: content of classes, symptoms and problems, preconceptions and the meaning of yoga, effects of yoga, challenges, and recommendations. This is the first study to examine the experiences of patients and carers practising yoga in palliative care settings. Recommendations include supporting and educating yoga teachers working with this population, and the need for robust trials.

Int J Palliat Nurs. 2010 Nov;16(11):548-54. Selman L, Higginson IJ. Department of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, United Kingdom. lucy.selman@kcl.ac.uk