The impact of yoga and meditation on depression and anxiety disorder

Pages: 2002-2008
Shaziya Shekh (Department of Psychology, Vasant Kanya, Mahavidyalaya (BHU), Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh)
Sandhya Ojha (Department of Psychology, Sri Agrasen Kanya P.G. College, Parmanandpur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh)

Yoga and meditation are 3,000 year-old practices in India. These have developed for general well-being and healing. Depression and anxiety are among the most common situations that seek treatment with supplemental and alternative therapies such as yoga and meditation. The effectiveness of these interventions is increasing day by day for the treatment of anxiety and depression, especially for mild to moderate levels of disorder severity. There are no adverse effects of yoga and meditation interventions and they are easily available. Studies attest the fact that yoga and meditation enhance performance physiologically and psychologically. These can improve the mental well-being and reduce depression and anxiety. The purpose of this research is to explore the effectiveness of yoga and meditation for treating anxiety and depression. The present research focuses on the exploration of how the patient of depression and anxiety benefit from yoga and meditation, how yoga and meditation is being used to address symptoms of depression and anxiety and the extent to which these ways are effective. The studies used in the present research help in establishing how yoga can improve healthy life style, reduce depression and anxiety in human beings as compared to those who lack yoga and meditation sessions in their routine. Findings from this paper will be used to determine areas of further study and implications for clinical social work practice.