Study on the effect of different forms of yoga on stress levels

In a three-arm randomized controlled trial (published in 2022), 102 adults with elevated stress levels and stress-related symptoms were assigned to an integrative yoga class, an Iyengar yoga class or mindfulness training without physical exercise.

The integrative yoga combined physical exercises, mindfulness training and ethical/philosophical aspects, while the Iyengar yoga focused mainly on physical exercises.

The primary outcome measured was the perception of stress after 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes included burnout, quality of life, physical discomfort, depression, anxiety, mindfulness, interoceptive awareness, self-regulation, spirituality, mysticism and post-traumatic stress, which were measured at baseline, after 12 weeks and after 24 weeks.

A statistically significant and clinically relevant reduction in stress was observedin all groups. However, there were no significant differences between the groups or evidence of synergistic effects of the combination of mindfulness and physical yoga exercises.

All three interventions were equally effective methods of stress reduction, suggesting that their use in practice should depend on availability and patient preference.