Yoga can ease anxiety but sharing a problem is the best help of all

REGULAR yoga may help improve symptoms of longterm anxiety – but it is not as effective as talking therapy, research suggests.

Scientists at the New York University’s Grossman School of Medicine have found that when it comes to treating generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) – a chronic condition that causes anxiousness about a wide range of situations and issues – yoga has short-term benefits but is less effective than cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in the long run.

CBT is a talking therapy that can help patients deal with negative thinking by managing overwhelming problems in a more positive way.

Researchers say some people may be unwilling to commit to the process or have access to this form of therapy and alternative options may be needed.

Naomi M Simon, a professor of psychiatry at NYU Langone Health and one of the authors of the study published in Jama Psychiatry, said: “Our findings demonstrate that yoga, which is safe and widely available, can improve symptoms for some people with this disorder and could be a valuable tool in an overall treatment plan.”

The study involved 226 people with GAD, randomly assigned to three groups – CBT, Kundalini yoga, or stress-management education.

The yoga practice involved getting into different strengthening postures as well performing various breathing techniques, relaxation exercises, and meditation.

Those in the stress-management group received guidance on how to manage anxiety, such as reducing alcohol and smoking, and understanding the importance of exercise and a healthy diet.

Results showed 54pc of those in the yoga group saw their symptoms improve compared to 33pc in the stress-education group.

Among those who were treated with CBT, 71pc met the improvement criteria.

However, after six months of follow-up, it was found that while the CBT response remained significantly better than stress education, yoga was no longer as effective.