Yoga and depression

March 28, 2017   |   Evidence in Integrative Healthcare

The evidence continues to demonstrate the potential health benefits of yoga. In a study highlighted in the U.S. Library of Medicine’s MedlinePlus, yoga when combined with deep breathing exercises was found to ease the symptoms of depression. There are a number of proposed mechanisms whereby this therapy helps with depression from internal chemistry to the effect on the central nervous system. While those who participated in three weekly session with home practice did somewhat better than those who participated in twice weekly session with home practice, the two classes per week was still very effective in improving people’s mood. According to Dr. Alan Manevitz, a clinical psychologist who reviewed the findings of this study believes this supports yoga as a treatment “that can help the millions of people suffering from major depressive disorders around the world.