Yoga offers abundant health benefits and a significant benefit of yoga is a reduction in feelings of anxiety and depression. The medical community has begun to embrace yoga for a range of physical and mental disorders. No doctor will tell you to ditch your prescription for the yoga mat, but they are beginning to see the benefits for improving and stabilizing moods.
Various studies have examined the effect of yoga on the body’s stress response mechanisms. A University of Utah study of fibromyalgia patients showed the people who practiced yoga had a higher level of pain tolerance and were better able to regulate stress.
German researchers looked at the results of yoga over a three month period for anxiety and stress. The participants took two yoga classes each week and at the end of the three month study, the yoga group had decreased scores of depression, anxiety and increased overall well being, compared with the control group.
Although there aren’t concrete scientific studies to show exactly how yoga decreases anxiety and depression, there are several factors that contribute. One is the controlled pranayama breathing in yoga classes. Breathing is an essential component in most forms of stress management and the breath has a profound effect on the body.
The type of yoga doesn’t matter in terms of reducing stress, anxiety and depression. All forms of yoga offer benefits, so it’s a matter of personal preference. Hatha yoga is found in most gym yoga classes and studios. Some people prefer a more strenuous practice, such as a Vinyasa flow class and others prefer the relaxed approach of a gentle stretch class.
The important thing to remember is practicing regularly is essential to reduce stress and relieve anxiety and depression. Make your practice a priority and get to the mat every day, even if you only have time for ten or fifteen minutes.