Determination of activity of reflexogenic zones of the body during performance of static exercise of Hatha Yoga (Uttana Mayurasana)

Abstract

Measuring the electrical conductivity of various meridians in the human body provides valuable insights into the energy dynamics within these meridians. The objective of our study was to investigate the impact of physical exercises on the human body using acupuncture diagnostics based on the Y. Nakatani method. For this purpose, we analyzed a static exercise analogous to the Uttana Mayurasana posture (the stretching peacock pose). Our hypothesis suggested that these diagnostic methods could be applied not only for disease detection but also to assess the effects of physical exercises on specific organs and systems of the body.

The study involved ten female students aged 18–20 from Ivan Franko State Pedagogical University, who were well-trained in performing the selected exercise. Measurements of electrical activity were conducted at three stages: before the exercise, during the exercise, and six minutes after its completion. The findings revealed substantial changes in the electrical activity of the representative points corresponding to human body meridians.

The results demonstrated that the chosen static exercise exerts a significant influence on the human body. Specifically, it was observed that the asana suppresses the activity of the small intestine and pancreas, contributing to the slowing of their function. This effect, which has not been widely reported in the literature, appears to result from changes in the positioning of parenchymal organs due to torso bending, compression of the neck and abdominal organs, and alterations in their blood flow. Additionally, these effects are accompanied by a redistribution of visceral circulation, driven by increased intra-abdominal pressure, consistent with previously documented findings.

During the performance of Uttana Mayurasana, blood vessels in the anterior surface of the neck and posterior surface of the lower limbs are compressed, leading to a reduction in blood flow within the neck region. Concurrently, blood circulation slows in the shoulder girdle, pelvis, thoracic, and abdominal cavities. Gas exchange is also affected due to the deceleration of respiratory activity. This cascade of changes impacts the functional activity of specific organs, slowing the functions of the pericardium, bladder, and stomach, while enhancing the activity of the heart, lungs, pituitary gland, gallbladder, and both the small and large intestines.

Conclusions. The Y. Nakatani acupuncture diagnostic method proves effective in assessing the electrical activity of human body meridians during static physical exercises. This technique could be recommended for studying the physiological effects of static exercises on the human body in conjunction with other established scientific methods. The static exercise analyzed in this study demonstrates both stimulating and suppressive effects on different internal organs, offering valuable insights for further research in this domain.