Addressing obstetrics and gynecology trainee burnout using a yoga-based wellness initiative during dedicated education time

OBJECTIVE:To estimate the feasibility of implementing a yoga-based wellness program during training and its influence on burnout, depression, anxiety, stress, and mindfulness among obstetrics and gynecology trainees.METHODS:We conducted a departmental quality improvement initiative consisting of weekly 1-hour yoga classes conducted during protected education time and nutrition and physical challenges for 24 obstetrics and gynecology residents and five maternal-fetal medicine fellows. Participants received a free wrist-worn fitness tracker device to record their activity. Preprogram and postprogram data collection included results from validated scales on burnout, mindfulness, depression and anxiety, blood pressure, heart rate, and weight. Wilcoxon signed rank tests were used for analysis. A P-value <.05 was considered significant.RESULTS:Over an 8-week period, 90% (n=26) of participants attended at least one yoga class and 68% attended at least 50% of the classes. No participant completed all sessions. Eighty percent (n=20) engaged in at least one nutrition challenge and 60% (n=15) in at least one physical challenge. After the program, a significant reduction in the depersonalization component of burnout (P=.04), anxiety (P=.02), and systolic (preprogram: 122, postprogram: 116 mm Hg; P=.01) and diastolic blood pressure (preprogram: 82, postprogram: 76 mm Hg; P=.01) occurred. Those participants who attended more than 50% of yoga classes demonstrated a significant reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared with less-frequent attendees (P=.02 and.04, respectively). A postprogram survey revealed feelings of increased camaraderie, appreciation, motivation, and overall training experience.DISCUSSION:Implementing a wellness program consisting of weekly yoga classes is feasible and may be beneficial. A wellness initiative that emphasizes active participation during education time with the autonomy to implement daily wellness activities may reduce burnout and improve well-being.