According to a new study, regular practice of a specific yoga maneuver may help reduce the vulnerability to reflex vasovagal syncope.

The maneuver, known as “tadasana”, is a movement-based practice which slowly improves the orthostatic imbalance, as it strengthens the protective neuromuscular reflexes. The tadasana exercise, done for just 15 minutes twice a day, was found to be tied to complete eradication of vasovagal syncope episodes for several patients.

The researchers presented their preliminary findings from a pilot study in a letter to JACC: Clinical Electrophysiology. In the study, 113 patients with recurrent vasovagal disorder were advised to practice standard physical maneuvers and maintain adequate hydration. Medications were given at the treating physician’s judgment. Sixty one patients were also trained to practice the tadasana maneuver. The patients were followed for an average of about 20 months. There was a reduction in the episodes of both near-syncope and syncope in both the groups; however, it was more marked in patients practicing the tadasana maneuver… (Medscape)