Yoga can’t be beaten when it comes to managing mood swings and anxiety. Researchers from the Boston University School of Medicine found a link between yoga, decreased anxiety and increased GABA (brain gamma-aminobutyric) levels.

There is an association between low GABA levels and depression and other widespread anxiety disorders, the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine reported.

Two randomized groups of healthy individuals over a period of 12-weeks were followed by researchers according to a Boston University Statement. One of the groups practiced yoga thrice a week for one hour while the remaining subjects walked for the same period of time.

Before the study began the brains of the participants were scanned with the help of magnetic resonance spectroscopic (MRS) imaging. The researchers compared the GABA levels of both groups before and after their final
60-minute session, in the 12th week.

Chris Streeter, associate professor of psychiatry and neurology at Boston University School of Medicine who led the study. He suggested that the practice of yoga be considered as a potential therapy for certain mental disorders.