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Contextualizing the effects of yoga therapy on diabetes management: a review of the social determinants of physical activity.

Alexander GK, Taylor AG, Innes KE, Kulbok P, Selfe TK

Center for the Study of Complementary and Alternative Therapies, University of Virginia School of Nursing, Charlottesville, USA. gka8c@virginia.edu

This article provides a review of literature both to identify the effects of yoga-based therapy on the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus and to examine the social context of physical activity. Findings from the review indicate that yoga has a positive short-term effect on multiple diabetes-related outcomes; however, long-term effects of yoga therapy on diabetes management remain unclear. The context of the social environment, including interpersonal relationships, community characteristics, and discrimination, influences the adoption and maintenance of health behaviors such as physical activity, including yoga practice. Further research is necessary to determine the extent of this influence.

Published 16 June 2008 in Fam Community Health, 31(3): 228-39.
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