Author(s): KIM, H., Institution: DONG-EUI UNIVERSITY, Country: KOREA, SOUTH, Abstract-ID: 672

INTRODUCTION:
Sleep loss and poor sleep quality are major global health concerns, as impaired sleep is associated with adverse circadian rhythm regulation and negative health outcomes. Numerous studies have demonstrated that sleep quality deteriorates during menopause, although reported prevalence rates vary across studies. Meanwhile, mind–body interventions (MBIs), such as yoga and yogates, have been developed and have shown promising potential to improve sleep quality and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in menopausal and older women. Therefore, this study aimed to systematically review the current evidence on the effectiveness of MBIs in improving sleep quality and HRQoL among menopausal women and other adult populations experiencing sleep disturbances.
METHODS:
Based on our previous research findings, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were systematically searched to identify studies addressing the definitions, underlying mechanisms, and pathophysiology of mind–body exercise (MBE) and Yogates, as well as to evaluate the psychological and physiological effects of exercise interventions on sleep quality and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Sleep quality comprises four key attributes: sleep efficiency, sleep latency, sleep duration, and wake after sleep onset.
RESULTS:
Poor sleep quality is highly prevalent during menopause and is associated with numerous adverse physical and psychological health consequences. In light of these negative effects, moderate-quality evidence supports the recommendation of yoga or yogates as supportive interventions for improving HRQoL and reducing fatigue and sleep disturbances compared with no intervention, as well as for alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression. In addition, yoga-based practices enhance muscular strength and flexibility, improve respiratory and cardiovascular function, reduce chronic pain, and contribute to overall improvements in sleep quality and HRQoL.
CONCLUSION:
Various forms of mind–body exercise (MBE), including yoga, Tai Chi, Qigong, meditative movement, Pilates, and yogates, have become widely recognized as components of exercise interventions aimed at improving sleep quality, physical activity, fitness, overall health, psychosocial well-being, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL), while reducing physical limitations and chronic pain. These benefits are thought to be mediated through integrated practices such as meditation, relaxation, controlled breathing, and structured postural movements. Compared with other mind–body interventions, yoga and yogates have demonstrated the greatest effectiveness in improving sleep quality and enhancing quality of life among postmenopausal women.