Yoga as an Occupation to Promote Quality of Life for Individuals with Fibromyalgia
Graduation Date
2006
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Document Form
Degree Name
Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy
Department
Occupational Therapy
Department or Program Chair
Ruth Ramsey, EdD, OTR/L
Thesis Advisor
Stacy Frauwirth, MS, OTR/L
Second Advisor
Bonnie Napier-Tibere, EdD, OTR/L
Abstract
The purpose of this qualitative research study is to understand the impact of yoga on the quality of life of individuals with fibromyalgia and the impact of fibromyalgia on occupational participation. The research was a qualitative approach of naturalistic inquiry using a semi-structured interviewing method to explore experiences of participating in yoga with fibromyalgia. Six women, aged 30 to 70 years old, participating in yoga and diagnosed with fibromyalgia were interviewed. Participants confirmed significant benefits from yoga. Practicing yoga routinely gave them better control over symptoms and improved their recovery. The participants were motivated to resume daily occupations, which improved their overall quality of life. Yoga can be adapted as a meaningful occupation to increase quality of life of individuals with fibromyalgia.