Psychotherapeutic Yoga

What is it about?

Although various yoga practices (YBPs) have existed for centuries as a self-proclaimed system of healing they have only recently been integrated into Western models of healing and well-being. Clinical practices are increasingly incorporating elements of mindfulness in philosophies and treatments. Research on effectiveness of YBPs has reported variable results, but there is some evidence of reduced anxiety and depression. The study described herein sought to more rigorously explore outcomes of psychological well-being immediately following a psychotherapeutic yoga class. Findings revealed that a single session of psychotherapeutic yoga decreased anxiety and increased subjective well-being, even after controlling for therapist variability, prior yoga experience, and client diagnosis. This is the first study to examine outcomes of an ongoing YBP in the naturalistic setting of an outpatient counseling center while rigorously controlling for confounding factors (e.g., therapist variability).

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Why is it important?

The present study suggests that psychotherapeutic yoga may be helpful in promoting psychological well-being and reducing anxiety among adults. These effects may be evident even within a single session of psychotherapeutic yoga, for both seasoned and novice yoga clients experiencing psychological distress.