Yoga for depression and anxiety in women
Researchers from Azad University, in Mashhad, Iran report that yoga reduced anxiety but not depression.
Here’s a summary of what they and others have found.
First, the details.
- 67 women were randomly assigned to a treatment group.
- Twice weekly yoga classes of 90-minute duration for 2 months.
- A waiting list and no yoga.
And, the results.
- There was no difference in depression between the groups at the end of the study.
- However, those who took the yoga classes showed a significant decrease in anxiety.
The bottom line?
Other studies have come to positive conclusions as well.
Fooyin University, Taiwan
- 128 elderly people were assigned to a 70-minute silver yoga exercise program 3 times per week for 6 months or to no treatment.
- Sleep quality, depression, and health status were significantly improved in the yoga group.
Bangalore Institute of Oncology, Bangalore, India
- 88 breast cancer patients were randomly assigned to yoga or brief supportive therapy prior to radiotherapy treatment.
- There were significant decreases in anxiety, depression, perceived stress, morning salivary cortisol, and average cortisol in the yoga group vs controls.
Other studies with positive results are summarized here.
4/6/09 20:30 JR