Hypothetical model for explaining yoga mediated modulation of pathways implicated in obesity

Obesity is a state of energy imbalance characterized by inflammation, dysregulated autonomic nervous system function, altered brown adipose tissue activity, basal metabolic rate alterations, and changes at the psychological level. Adipose tissue is not only a metabolic organ but also an endocrine organ. Adipokines released by the fat cells play an important role in regulating the local metabolic processes and maintaining the homeostasis between food intake and energy balance. The most common pro-inflammatory cytokines involved are TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1, leptin, adiponectin, resistin, visfatin, irisin, which are involved in the pathophysiology of obesity. Yoga as lifestyle-based intervention influences the adipokine levels, autonomic nervous system functioning, brown adipose tissue activity, basal metabolic rate, and stress levels in the body. With this, yoga can help bring back the energy balance and weight management in obese individuals