Depression is one of the major health issues facing adolescents worldwide. Around one-third of all teenagers are at risk of developing depression\u2014often with serious consequences for their mental health, academic performance, and social lives. Since medication and conventional psychotherapy do not always provide sufficient relief or are difficult for many young people to access, researchers are seeking alternative, holistic approaches. <\/p>\n
A recent study from China has investigated which mind-body therapies (MBTs)<\/strong> are most effective against depression in adolescents. These include methods such as yoga, dance therapy, Tai Chi, and mindfulness training<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div> The research team reviewed data from five major scientific databases up to January 2024. In total, nine randomized controlled trials<\/strong> involving 955 adolescents<\/strong> who had tried various forms of mind-body therapy were evaluated. <\/p>\n The participants suffered from mild to moderate depressive symptoms. Researchers examined how their mood changed after several weeks of the respective method\u2014compared to control groups that received only standard care or engaged in leisure activities.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div> According to the so-called SUCRA ranking<\/strong>, which compares the effectiveness of various approaches, the following methods performed best:<\/p>\n All three methods improved depressive symptoms significantly more than standard treatment alone or relaxation exercises. Yoga was the most effective intervention.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div> Yoga combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and mindfulness. This combination has a positive effect on the stress response system<\/strong>, hormonal balance<\/strong>, and self-awareness<\/strong>. Studies show that yoga influences the release of dopamine<\/strong> and endorphins<\/strong>\u2014chemical messengers associated with motivation and well-being. <\/p>\n In addition, yoga can calm the autonomic nervous system<\/strong> and reduce the activity of the so-called HPA axis<\/strong> (stress axis). Regular practice thus improves the ability to cope with negative emotions and strengthens the sense of inner calm and control.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div> Dance therapy uses music, rhythm, and movement to express emotions and foster social bonds. Movement releases “happiness hormones” such as endorphins<\/strong> and oxytocin<\/strong>. For young people in particular, dancing can be a liberating experience that builds a sense of community\u2014thereby helping to combat loneliness and low moods.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>How was the study conducted?<\/h4><\/div>
![\"K\u00f6rper](\"https:\/\/happylotus.de\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ChatGPT-Image-18.-Okt.-2025-10_38_57.png\")
<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div>The result: Yoga has the strongest effect<\/h4><\/div>
\n
Why is yoga so effective?<\/h4><\/div>
Dance therapy: Movement and connection<\/h4><\/div>