This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the immediate physiological effects of two inversion angles, 90 degrees and 45 degrees, on cerebral hemodynamics and heart rate variability (HRV) in healthy yoga practitioners. The study is based on traditional yogic texts, which describe spontaneous activation of Jalandhara Bandha (throat lock) during deeper inversions that may influence cerebral autoregulation.

During 90-degree inversion (Sarvangasana), Jalandhara Bandha activation mechanically influences the carotid sinus. The carotid sinus baroreceptors act as sensors responding to the stretch in the carotid artery when the mean arterial pressure increases. Type 1 (dynamic) baroreceptors have large myelinated A-fibers, while Type 2 (tonic) have small A and unmyelinated C-fibers. When arterial pressure rises, these receptors in the carotid sinus and aortic arch send afferent signals via the glossopharyngeal nerve to the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) in the brainstem. This activation enhances parasympathetic tone and suppresses sympathetic activity, leading to reflex bradycardia and systemic vasodilatation.

Thirty yoga practitioners aged 18 to 35 years with a Minimum of 1 year of regular yoga practice, familiarity with inversion postures like sarvangasana and vipareeta karani. will be randomized equally into two groups. Group A will perform a 90-degree inversion posture (Sarvangasana type), and Group B will perform a 45-degree inversion posture (Vipareeta Karani Mudra).

Cerebral blood flow velocity will be measured using transcranial Doppler, and HRV parameters will be assessed using ECG at three time points – before, during, and immediately after the posture. Data will be analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA to compare within and between-group changes over time.

The study seeks to understand how inversion angle and Jalandhara Bandha activation influence cerebral autoregulation and autonomic modulation through carotid baroreceptor mechanisms in yoga practitioners.