How Is It Possible to Treat Diseases Without Medicine?: A Qualitative Study on the Attitude and Perceived Benefits of Yoga and Naturopathy Among Patients Admitted at an Inpatient Hospital

Abstract

Background:

Yoga and naturopathy (Y&N) is a system of medicine primarily focusing on restoration of health and well-being. Objective of this study is to understand the knowledge, attitude, and perception about Y&N among the inpatients of a government Y&N institution in south India.

Methods:

Focus group discussion was conducted in eight adult patients aged between 30 and 60 years who took Y&N treatments for a period of 10 days or more. Purposive sampling method was adopted. Oral informed consent was obtained.

Results:

Knowledge about the Y&N system of medicine was primarily through referral or “word of mouth.” Perceived benefits were both physical and psychological. Uniqueness of the hospital as mentioned by participants includes individual attention, tailor-made treatment protocols, and one-to-one care to the needy patients.

Conclusion:

An integrated approach is very much essential that might bring about better treatment outcomes in patients.

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