Evaluating The Efficacy Of A Mind-Body Intervention In Overcoming Opioid Addiction

This research proposal aims to test the feasibility, acceptability and efficacy of SKY
(Sudarshan Kriya Yoga) program, a mind-body intervention, as an adjuvant therapy for people
suffering with opioid use disorder (OUD), through a pilot program in Ashtabula, Ohio.
Previous research carried out in India in 2015, has demonstrated that SKY significantly
improved the quality of life among people with OUD, however, the suitability, acceptability
of SKY program has not been tested among American population. SKY differs from mindfulness
and other meditation processes in that, it is a more physiological, rather than cognitive
process. It involves controlled breathing techniques that can be easily mastered, and do not
require mental effort. The investigator's goals are to a) DEMONSTRATE the feasibility,
acceptability and efficacy of SKY program as an adjuvant therapy for American population
suffering with OUD through a pilot program in Ashtabula. Studies will be carried out in OUD
subjects at Signature Health clinic in Ashtabula. The efficacy of SKY will be measured using
psychometric questionnaires. Feasibility and acceptability will be measured by attendance and
attrition

Inclusion Criteria:

- The proposed participants are currently enrolled in Signature Health

- Are currently undergoing addiction treatment which may include medication assisted
treatment as well as counseling.

- The intervention is designed for adults, therefore, only individuals 18 and above will
be included in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

- Pregnant women who are beyond their first trimester are excluded from the study as the
program requires breathing techniques that are not recommended for pregnant women.

- Also, patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder will also be excluded
from the study, as SKY program is not suitable for people with these conditions.