Exploring the Impact of Yoga on Self-Perception in People with Aphasia

Instances of complex diagnoses and acquired language loss, such as aphasia, are often accompanied by a variety of deficits in quality of life. Most notably, individuals’ self-perceptions can be altered by these diagnoses, as new life complications bring about the necessity for major adjustments. This study utilized interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) to analyze the effects of participation in an adapted yoga program on self-perception, specifically evoking change in identity, emotional health, sense of community, and self-acceptance. Through interviews with six individuals with a primary aphasia diagnosis, findings revealed three major superordinate themes of self-perception: identity, self-care, and attunement. Participants' answers indicated significant changes from prior to participation in a yoga club as compared to their experiences with continued engagement. Analysis showcased the ways in which long-term participation in complementary and integrative care impacted these three superordinate themes. Understanding the impact of yoga on PWA provides insight into how complementary and integrative care can be used to enhance self-perceptions for a plethora of chronic conditions.