Abstract

YOGA AS A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO MENTAL HEALTH: A REVIEW OF ITS EFFECTS ON STRESS, ANXIETY, AND DEPRESSION

Ravindra Kumar Bhargawa*, Purushottam Das Sharma, Deepa, Ashok Kumar Sen, Neetu Choudhary

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Abstract

Mental health conditions, such as stress, anxiety, and depression, rank among the top causes of disability globally, impacting millions of people across various age demographics. Conventional treatment methods, including psychotherapy and medication, although effective, frequently come with side effects, accessibility challenges, and exorbitant costs. Recently, yoga has gained recognition as a complementary and holistic strategy for managing mental health. This review examines the effectiveness of yoga in diminishing stress, relieving anxiety, and addressing depression by evaluating existing research on the topic. Numerous studies indicate that yoga produces its positive effects through physiological processes, including the regulation of the autonomic nervous system, a decrease in cortisol levels, and modulation of neurotransmitters, as well as through psychological processes such as enhanced emotional regulation and increased mindfulness. Despite encouraging evidence, additional largescale studies employing standardized methodologies are required to confirm yoga as a validated therapeutic approach for mental health issues.

Keywords: Yoga, Mental health, Stress management, Anxiety relief, Meditation, Holistic health, Alternative medicine, Cognitive function.