More evidence that yoga helps ward off the blues.

A new study concludes that Yoga may significantly help those experiencing anxiety and depression. The study reported in the May issue of the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine was performed by Boston scientists who used MRIs to gauge levels of GABA in the brains of both yoga practitioners and non-practitioners.

Brain scans of yoga practitioners who participated in the study showed an average of a 27% increase in levels of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric (GABA) immediately after a one-hour yoga session. Low levels of GABA are associated with anxiety and depression.

Yoga As A Preventative and Treatment for Depression

According to researchers, this is the first study to show that yoga may correlate with a significant change in the level of a major neurotransmitter associated with depression. If substantiated, it would lead to a recognition of yoga as a preventatie and treatement for depression as well as anxiety disorder.

Brain scans were taken before the beginning of the experiment. Then, the yoga group was asked to engage in the meditative practice for 60 minutes, while the non-yoga group simply read.

Major schools of yoga practised were represented in the study including ashtanga, bikram, hatha, and vinyasa.

See Naturalpath's Guide: Information on Anxiety Disorder and Depression.

Information Relating to Yoga as Preventative and Treatment for Depression:

• May 2007, Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (Abstract)
  
• Medicine.Net: Yoga May Treat Depression and Anxiety Disorders
• Naturalpath Articles and Blogs Related to Yoga As A Preventative and Treatment for Depression:
  • Natural Remedies for Depression
  • Exercise Reduces Depression