Ashtanga Yoga and Positive Mental Health

Abstract

Ashtanga Yoga, rooted in the classical teachings of Patanjali, has gained increasing recognition for its therapeutic benefits in mental health. This paper explores its role in promoting psychological well-being, with a specific focus on its psychosocial impact. A systematic review of approximately 50 studies—selected from an initial pool of 167—was conducted, considering factors such as accessibility, methodological rigor, and relevance to contemporary mental health challenges. Some studies were excluded due to paywall restrictions, limited author permissions, or insufficient sample sizes. The findings highlight Ashtanga Yoga’s efficacy in alleviating anxiety, depression, stress, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Additionally, key psychosocial benefits, including improved emotional regulation, enhanced social functioning, and increased self-esteem, are examined in both clinical and non-clinical populations. The evidence suggests that Ashtanga Yoga serves as an effective complementary intervention for fostering emotional resilience and strengthening interpersonal relationships. This paper underscores the need for further large-scale, controlled trials to deepen our understanding of its long-term psychological benefits.