Vol. 4, Issue 2, Part A (2022)

The growing interest in utilizing yoga for the management and treatment of depression and anxiety reflects its affordability, appeal, and widespread accessibility. With plausible cognitive/affective and biological mechanisms, yoga emerges as a potentially impactful intervention for mental health challenges. Preliminary evidence suggests that yoga may offer assistance in addressing depression and anxiety, with ongoing larger-scale randomized clinical trials further exploring its potential benefits. The current body of evidence particularly supports the efficacy of yoga in alleviating symptoms of unipolar depression. Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge potential risks associated with engaging in yoga practices. Healthcare providers play a vital role in assisting patients in evaluating the suitability and safety of participating in specific community-based yoga classes. This collaborative assessment ensures that individuals can make informed decisions about incorporating yoga into their mental health care regimen.