Yoga for Depression and Anxiety: A Narrative Review of Mechanisms and Clinical Efficacy
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/QS.2026.59.72774Keywords
yoga, depression, anxiety, complementary therapy, neurobiology, psychotherapyAbstract
Introduction: Depressive and anxiety disorders are highly prevalent and frequently co-occurring mental health conditions, contributing significantly to global disease burden. Limitations of standard treatments highlight the need for complementary therapeutic approaches.
Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of yoga as an adjunctive intervention for depressive and anxiety disorders and related symptoms, and to summarize its underlying neurobiological and psychological mechanisms.
Methods: A narrative review of the literature published between 2006 and 2026 was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Studies assessing yoga interventions in adult populations with depression and/or anxiety were included.
Results: Yoga demonstrated small-to-moderate reductions in depressive and anxiety symptoms, particularly when compared with passive controls. It appears effective as an adjunct to psychotherapy, with additional benefits linked to neurobiological mechanisms (e.g., HPA axis regulation, increased GABA and BDNF) and improved emotional regulation. However, its efficacy is less consistent when compared as a standalone intervention against active controls such as CBT.
Conclusions: Yoga is a safe and beneficial complementary intervention for depression and anxiety, especially when combined with standard treatments. It should not replace first-line therapies but may enhance overall outcomes and well-being.
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