Positive Health Online

Abstract

SHELOV and COLLEAGUES, Yeshiva University, New York, USA. dshelov@mindspring.com conducted a study to determine whether yoga would increase mindfulness levels in a healthy study group.

Background

The current study examined whether yoga would increase levels of mindfulness in a healthy population.

Methodology

Forty-six participants were randomly assigned to an 8-week yoga intervention group or a wait-list control group. Mindfulness was assessed pre and post yoga, using the Freiburg Mindfulness Inventory (FMI).

Results

Results indicate that the yoga group experienced a significant increase in Overall mindfulness, and in three mindfulness subscales; Attention to the present moment, Accepting and open attitudes toward experience, and Insightful understanding (p < .01). The control group experienced a significant increase in overall mindfulness (p < .02) and insightful understanding (p < .01).

Conclusion

Findings suggest that a yoga intervention may be a viable method for increasing levels of trait mindfulness in a healthy population, potentially implicating yoga as a preventive method for the later development of negative emotional mood states (i.e. anxiety and depression). The control group also experienced moderate elevations of mindfulness at the second assessment.

References

Shelov DV, Suchday S and Friedberg JP. A pilot study measuring the impact of yoga on the trait of mindfulness. Behavioural & Cognitive Psychotherapy. 37(5):595-8, Oct 2009.