Effect of integrated approach of yoga therapy on implicit and explicit depression in people with obesity

Background: Obesity and depression pose a definite problem in terms of their physical and their mental health threats at an individual level. Obese individuals are more likely to report stronger depressive symptoms. Studies have shown that yoga practices reduce depressive symptoms and improve psychological and physical wellbeing.
Objective: The aims of the study were to, (1) To study the effect of IAYT on Implicit and explicit depression in obesity. (2) To study the effect of IAYT on congruence between implicit and explicit depression in obesity.
Method: In this short-term interventional study with a pre-post design on 70 participants with obesity. Were taught integrated yoga module. It included asanas, pranayama, relaxation, notional correction and devotional sessions. Assessment were carried out on the 1st and 15th day of the therapy, using a Implicit association test to measure the implicit depression, BDI-II questionnaire were used with help of inquisit.3 software.
Results: Significant reduction in implicit and explicit depression (p<0.05) were observed after IAYT. Conclusion: This study provides evidence that integrated approach of yoga therapy, a short term intensive program helps obese in Reducing depressive mood by both implicitly and explicitly.