The effect of yogic relaxation on muscle tone

Title: The effect of yogic relaxation on muscle tone Objectives: The aim of this thesis is to present a technique of yogic relaxation, yoga nidra, as one of the possible methods for releasing mental and physical tension. The aim of the practical part of this thesis is to evaluate the effect of yoga nidra on muscle tone. Methods: The practical part of this thesis is a pilot study with six participants. For objective assessment of muscle tone the method of myotonometry was used. M. soleus was selected as the muscle to be measured. First, the original muscle tone of m. soleus on the dominant lower limb of the participants was measured. Then the group of participants was instructed about the practice of yoga nidra and was asked to practice it every day in the following 14 days at home using a given audio recording. After the two-week training, the muscle tone of m. soleus was measured again in order to determine the long-term effect of yoga nidra on muscle tone. Finally, the participants participated in a group lesson of yoga nidra guided by a yoga teacher. Then, the muscle tone of m. soleus was measured again in order to determine the instant effect of yoga nidra on muscle tone. Results: After the two-week training of yoga nidra the research found a decrease in muscle tone of m. soleus in 5 out of 6..