Abstract: Mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, and depression are increasingly prevalent in modern society, adversely affecting individuals’ quality of life and productivity. Yoga, a holistic mind-body practice with origins in ancient India, combines physical postures, controlled breathing, and meditation to promote overall health and well-being. This study explores the mental health status of adults who regularly practice yoga compared to non-practitioners. Using standardized psychological measures including the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) and General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), mental health parameters of 175 participants (75 regular yogic practitioners and 75 non-practitioners) were assessed. The study found that regular yogic practitioners exhibited significantly lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress, along with improved psychological well-being compared to non-practitioners. These findings support existing literature on yoga’s positive effects on mental health and suggest that integrating yoga into daily routines can be an effective complementary approach to managing psychological distress. The study also discusses potential mechanisms behind yoga’s benefits, including regulation of the autonomic nervous system, reduction of cortisol levels, and enhancement of mindfulness and emotional regulation. Limitations such as sample size and self-report measures are acknowledged, with recommendations for future longitudinal and experimental research. This research reinforces yoga’s role as a valuable tool in promoting mental wellness in diverse populations, highlighting its potential for inclusion in mental health promotion and prevention programs.
Keywords: Yoga, Mental Health, Stress Reduction, Anxiety, Psychological Well-being
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DOI:
10.17148/IJARCCE.2025.14605
