Journey back into body and soul – An exploration of mindful yoga with psychosis

Abstract

Yoga is regarded in the West mainly as a physical activity. However, increasing evidence supports yoga’s efficacy as an adjunct treatment for complex mental health issues. This study explored the suitability of an integrated mindful yoga programme in a mental health rehabilitation centre. Ten psychiatric inpatients participated in twice-weekly 30 minute sessions over seven weeks. Semi-structured interviews and weekly journal entries were utilized to explore reasons for attending the yoga, challenges, barriers, and the programme’s impact on achieving personal objectives. Themes included increased relaxation, reduced stress, improved energy, greater ability to focus, and further motivation to engage in life. These findings support the potential benefits of yoga programmes for people experiencing psychosis.

Keywords:

• psychosis
• yoga
• mindfulness
• self-awareness
• recovery journey

Acknowledgments

The authors thank for their invaluable contribution to, and support of this project: The Auckland District Health Board who gave permission to conduct this first Yoga study in a New Zealand Mental Health Service; Clinic staff, who actively participated and supported the programme. Special thanks are extended to Yoga mentor Swami Kriyatmananda Saraswati, Director of Education, Satyananda Yoga Academy, Mangrove, Australia. Deepest thanks go to the residents, who embraced the programme so willingly and shared their experiences so generously. All efforts have been made to protect non-identifiable confidentiality of study participants.