According to a study, this very fashionable activity reduces the risk of depression

What if yoga could do more than relax you? A study published in the journal Psychiatry Research reveals that certain forms of yoga are particularly effective for improving mental well-being.

This ancestral practice, which combines physical postures, controlled breathing and meditation, could well help you deal with certain psychological disorders.

Mental benefits of yoga

Yoga, with its postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama) and moments of meditation, has gained popularity as a tool for overall well-being. But it is also increasingly established as a complementary therapy for disorders such as post-traumatic stress (PTSD) and depression.

According to the study conducted by Seyed Aria Nejadghaderi’s team, yoga-based interventions significantly reduce symptoms of depression, with effects that persist over time.

Gradual reconnection

The study drew on 20 clinical trials involving 954 participants diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), often associated with depressive symptoms. The results show that specific approaches, such as Kundalini yoga or trauma-sensitive yoga, are particularly effective.

These styles encourage a gradual reconnection with the body, in a safe environment, while integrating breathing and mindfulness exercises.

Regulate the nervous system

Researchers have also noted that these forms of yoga help regulate the nervous system and reduce stress levels. On the other hand, other practices, such as Hatha or Kripalu yoga, have proven to be less impactful in this specific context.

While the immediate benefits for PTSD symptoms are still debated, the effects of yoga on depression appear to be solid. Participants in yoga programs reported lasting improvement in their mood, compared to control groups who received other types of care or no treatment.