Enhancing well-being at work: Qualitative insights into challenges and benefits of long-term yoga programs for desk-based workers

Background: Desk-based workers face substantial health challenges due to sedentary lifestyles and work-related stress. Although yoga interventions hold promise in mitigating these issues, implementing them effectively and ensuring adherence remain significant hurdles. Objective: This qualitative study explored the experiences of desk-based workers participating in a yoga programme, focusing on challenges, perceived benefits, and recommendations for future interventions. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six desk-based workers who engaged in a yoga intervention. Thematic analysis identified critical themes from the interview data. Results: Participants highlighted challenges in maintaining regular yoga practice, citing time constraints, initial physical discomfort, and varying motivation levels. Despite these obstacles, they reported significant benefits, particularly in mental well-being and stress management. Improved concentration, emotional regulation, and physical flexibility were commonly cited outcomes. Participants emphasised the need for flexible scheduling, gradual intensity progression, and ongoing support to enhance adherence. Conclusions: Desk-based workers encounter practical challenges in sustaining consistent yoga practice but perceive substantial mental health benefits. Future yoga interventions should prioritise flexible scheduling and adaptable practice intensity, emphasise mental health advantages, and provide ongoing support. Implications: This study contributes to developing more effective workplace yoga programs, potentially improving long-term health outcomes for desk-based workers. Further research should quantitatively assess cognitive and cardiovascular impacts over extended periods. Limitations: The study's small sample size limits generalisability. Future research should include more extensive and more diverse samples, integrating quantitative measures alongside qualitative insights.