Learning Disability Nursing Day | Researching how yoga benefits adults with learning disabilities

Lisa Harwood, a PhD student and experienced yoga instructor at the University of South Wales (USW), is researching the positive effects of yoga on adults with learning disabilities. Having worked closely with this community for several years, Lisa has witnessed first-hand the transformative impact yoga can have on physical stability and overall well-being.

“Despite the wide body of literature on yoga’s mental and emotional benefits, especially for individuals with serious illnesses like cancer or neurological conditions, there is limited scientific data on how yoga can improve functional outcomes like balance for those with learning disabilities,” said Lisa.

Lisa runs yoga classes with various service providers, including Flexible Options, Multisports and Wellbeing and Innovate Trust. Inspired by the improvements in balance that she observed among her students, Lisa was encouraged to delve deeper into the subject.

"My student came to me and said that her physiotherapist had noticed significant improvements in balance and had told her to continue whatever she was doing, and that really got me thinking - how much more could yoga help?" Lisa said.

Lisa’s PhD centres around assessing the balance of individuals with learning disabilities using two validated physiotherapy tools: the Berg Balance Scale and the Timed Up and Go test.

The study includes participants from three day centres in Rhondda Cynon Taff. They have been divided into two groups: an intervention group participating in yoga sessions over 15 weeks, and a control group continuing their usual activities. Both groups undergo balance assessments at the start and end of the study to measure and identify any changes in their balance scores. In addition, participants will engage in focus groups to share their personal experiences with the yoga practice and the research process itself. Lisa plans to offer the yoga classes to the other group so that they don’t miss out.

"This research not only has the potential to impact health outcomes for adults with learning disabilities but also contributes to evidence that could shape future health policies," Lisa said. Her goal is to ensure that yoga is recognised as an accessible and effective therapeutic intervention for individuals with learning disabilities.

Lisa’s passion for her work comes from a deep connection to the adults she teaches. She describes her experiences working with adults with learning disabilities as ‘a breath of fresh air’ and is continually inspired by their openness, joy, and enthusiasm. Through her research and teaching, Lisa hopes to continue advocating for the health and well-being of this community and to expand research that amplifies their voices.