Date of Award
Fall 9-19-2025
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Kinesiology (PhD)
Department
Kinesiology
Abstract
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students experience high academic stress, often impacting mental health. Restorative yoga may reduce stress, regulate the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis response, and support cognitive function. This study examined its effects on mental health and cognitive function in DPT students. Forty-four students were randomly assigned to restorative yoga or control groups in a double-blind design. Participants completed the Stroop Test, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-8), and a demographic survey at baseline and after 6 weeks. The yoga group practiced twice weekly; controls maintained regular activity, excluding yoga. ANOVA and correlation analyses evaluated intervention effects and demographic associations. No significant between-group differences emerged for DASS-8, RAVLT, or Stroop Test performance. Both groups improved on RAVLT trials over time. Interaction effects suggested restorative yoga may influence cognitive trajectories. Correlation and chi-square analyses linked demographic factors and identified populations at higher risk for mental health and academic concerns, including a significant association between stress/anxiety and Stroop performance. While restorative yoga did not significantly outperform controls, findings reveal complex interactions between stress, cognition, and mental health in DPT students. Results support advising models that integrate wellness strategies and identify students at risk for academic and psychological distress. Early detection and targeted support within DPT curricula could address psychosocial challenges, promote resilience, and improve outcomes. Future research should explore longer interventions and larger, more diverse samples to refine these approaches and guide evidence-based advising.