Heated yoga can be a solution: A new study on yoga and depression

When fighting depression symptoms, people tend to use not only meds but also other things that can help them feel better.

A recent study found that heated yoga sessions helped reduce depression symptoms in adults with moderate-to-severe depression.

Let's find out how it works.

How it was tested

The experiment involved 80 individuals, with one group attending 90-minute special yoga sessions in a 105F room, and the other group on a waitlist.

After 8 weeks, the initial yoga group showed a significant reduction in depressive symptoms compared to the second waitlist group.

Interestingly, 60% of the yoga practicing individuals experienced a 50% or greater decrease in symptoms, and 44% achieved such low scores that their depression was even considered in remission.

Even attending heated yoga sessions just once a week had a positive impact on depressive symptoms.

The individuals had a positive view of the heated yoga sessions, and there were no serious adverse effects reported.

Why it might be helpful

The researchers are planning further studies to understand the specific contributions of heat and yoga to the treatment of depression.

Overall, this study shows that heated yoga could be a beneficial non-medication approach for treating depression, providing physical benefits as well.
 

• Related news:
• research
• yoga
• depression
• health
• 30 October 2023

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