Active yoga may help relieve depression symptoms

New research suggests that physically active yoga can help ease depressive symptoms for people with a mental health diagnosis.

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People experiencing depressive symptoms from other mental health disorders may benefit from doing physically active yoga.

A study has found that people with some mental health diagnoses who regularly engage in physically active yoga are likely to have fewer depressive symptoms than those who practice less often or engage in other forms of intervention.

The research, published in The British Journal of Sports Medicine, brings together the findings of a variety of previous studies and outlines the value that further research on the relationship between yoga and mental health issues would bring.

Addressinga ‘profound human problem’

Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide. According to an article in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, it is “one of the most profound human problems currently facing the global health care system.”

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression “causes severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working.”

Depression sometimes appears alongside other mental health issues, such as anxiety and psychosis. Some physical health issues can also lead to mental health issues.

According to an article in the Journal of Affective Disorders, many experts associate a lack of physical activity with depression.

Doctors often encourage people with depression to take part in physical activity to prevent the adverse physical health effects of inactivity, such as cardiovascular disease. An article in the Journal of Psychiatric Research indicates that physical activity is an effective treatment for depression.

In this context, physically active yoga may play a valuable role. There is a range of different types of yoga, but the practice typically combines physical movement, breathing exercises, meditation, and mindfulness.

A meta-analytic review from the American Psychological Association indicated that mindfulness could help treat anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.

Combined with the benefits of physical activity for mental health issues, yoga may provide numerous benefits for people experiencing symptoms of depression.