Practicing yoga really does relax the mind and body more than other types of exercise, according to a new study. Researchers found that three sessions of the exercise per week can help fight off depression by boosting levels of a chemical essential for a sound and relaxed mind. 

    Scientists found that the levels of the amino acid GABA, are much higher in those that practice yoga than those who do the equivalent of a similarly-strenuous exercise such as walking. GABA is essential to the function of brain and central nervous system and helps promote a state of calm within the body. Low GABA levels are associated with depression and other widespread anxiety disorders. 

    Scientists from the Boston University School of Medicine in America spent 12 weeks monitoring two groups of healthy individuals, half of whom walked for three hours each week, while the other half spent the same time practicing yoga. 

    Participants’ brains were scanned before and after the study using magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging to measure GABA levels. They were also asked questions about their psychological wellbeing throughout the study. 

    Those who practiced yoga reported lower levels of anxiety and increases in their mood compared with the walkers. Chris Streeter of Boston University said that “over time, positive changes in these reports were associated with climbing GABA levels.” 

    Mr. Streeter called for further research into using yoga as a treatment for other forms of mental illness. The research was published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 

    Katie Prior of the mental health charity Mind welcomed the study. “Any kind of exercise is good for improving a person’s mood and self esteem,” she said. “It makes you feel good and look good, both of which help with mental wellbeing,” she added.

    Yoga may also help with forming social connections. “People can join a class where they can meet others -- this is a great way to meet people, especially for those who may suffer from isolation and loneliness,” said Ms. Prior. 

       美国的一项最新研究发现，每周练三次瑜伽有助战胜抑郁，原因是练习瑜伽可提高大脑氨基酸GABA的水平，该物质对放松心情至关重要。科学家发现，与进行散步等常规锻炼的人相比，瑜伽练习者体内GABA的水平更高。