Salient Eliciation Interviews of Yogis from around the World (Comparison of USA and India)

This study attempted to explore the differences between yoga practice in the United States versus that in India. Results from many research studies on the benefits of yoga from those who practice in the United States does differ in many ways from that of those who practice in India. A qualitative research study was conducted to identify the psychological and social factors related to individuals practicing yoga in India and then comparing those with previous data from individuals who practice in the United States. Results showed that components of a positive attitude toward yoga (advantages and disadvantages) were the strongest responses related to intention to practice yoga in India. Americans focused much more on their behavioral control and the facilitators and barriers to practicing yoga. Additional information from the interviews identified strong differences between what constitutes a yoga practice in India versus that in the United States. Indian yogis discussed elements of the yamas and niyamas (rules of healthy living)and the importance of meditation. American yogis discussed the physical benefits of yoga and the benefits of feeling relaxed and having less stress. Yoga seems to more strongly resemble a way of living in India than in the United States. American yogis discussed how they feel better and feel more relaxed, but did not as strongly associate their yoga practice with their way of leaving. Yogis in India also reported practicing yoga throughout the day whereas American yogis practiced yoga a set time each day.