Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 13, 2026

Resting-State Connectivity and Neuroimaging of Prefrontal Cortex Activity During a Block-Design Yoga Asana Practice Using fNIRS
Published on: June 24, 2025
Reducing psychological distress and obesity through Yoga practice
S Dhananjai1, Sadashiv, Sunita Tiwari
1Department of Physiology, CSM Medical University, Lucknow, India.
This study shows that yoga effectively reduces anxiety and depression in obese individuals without requiring diet changes. Incorporating yoga into treatment plans can offer long-term benefits for mental health and weight management.
Area of Science:
- Integrative Medicine
- Psychosomatic Medicine
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Yoga is a complementary therapy for psychosomatic diseases.
- It enhances physical strength, flexibility, and physiological control.
- Yoga can improve exercise capacity and manage conditions like cancer and asthma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of yogic practices on anxiety and depression in obese individuals.
- To assess yoga's effectiveness as a non-dietary intervention for obesity-related mental health issues.
Main Methods:
- 272 obese subjects were divided into a yogic practice group (205) and an aerobic exercise control group (67).
- Anxiety and depression levels were measured using the Hamilton Rating Scale.
- The study was conducted at C.S.M. Medical University, India.
Main Results:
- Yogic practice significantly improved anxiety and depression symptoms in obese subjects.
- Yoga proved effective without the need for dietary restrictions.
- The findings support yoga as a tool for managing obesity-related psychological distress.
Conclusions:
- Yogic asanas can be a beneficial addition to treatment protocols for anxiety and depression.
- Long-term integration of yoga may offer sustained mental health improvements.
- Yoga presents a viable, non-pharmacological approach for managing obesity and associated mental health conditions.
More Related Videos
05:06Effects of Mindfulness Training Combined with Tai Chi in Patients with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Published on: July 14, 2023
10:45A Community-based Stress Management Program: Using Wearable Devices to Assess Whole Body Physiological Responses in Non-laboratory Settings
Published on: January 22, 2018
Related Concept Videos
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques III
The Role of Exercise in Stress Management
Regular physical activity is essential for reducing stress and promoting cardiovascular health. Exercise strengthens the heart, enhances blood flow, keeps blood vessels flexible, and helps lower blood pressure, all of which reduce the body's stress response. Research shows that adults who exercise regularly have nearly half the risk...
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques VI
Motivation and Self-Determination
Motivation, the driving force behind behavior, plays a pivotal role at every stage of the change process. The research...
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques IV
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques I
Conscientiousness
Conscientious individuals tend to be organized, responsible, and disciplined. They prioritize completing tasks and following structured routines,...
Obesity
Psychological Responses to Stress