Conclusion
The results of this study signify that vinyasa yoga alters some autonomic and cardiovascular functioning by decreasing SBP and DBP, increasing HR, and having minimal impacts on HRV. There were also opposing physiological effects in response to the prolonged seated control, and yoga resulted in improved BP but less favorable HR and HRV in comparison. The opposing cardiovascular responses in this study indicate that acute BP, as compared to HR and HRV responses to vinyasa yoga and prolonged sitting may be predominantly influenced by different mechanisms. Overall, our findings potentially support vinyasa yoga as a strategy for acutely lowering BP though not for acute benefits in autonomic function.