The Contribution of Yoga to the Psychosocial Rehabilitation and Social Reintegration of Incarcerated Individuals: A Systematic Review.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland) December 27, 2025 Konstantinos Georgiadis, Giorgos Tzigkounakis, Katerina Simati et al. 2 citations
Yoga interventions in correctional settings are feasible and acceptable for incarcerated individuals, who face high rates of trauma and psychological distress. A systematic review of ten studies involving 1,815 participants found that yoga—including Hatha-based protocols, Krimyoga, and trauma-informed approaches—was associated with reduced psychological distress, negative affect, anger, and trauma-related symptoms, as well as improved mood, self-regulation, and mindfulness. Evidence specific to women and girls suggested potential reductions in post-traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety, alongside increases in self-compassion. One large quasi-experimental cohort found lower reincarceration rates among yoga participants. However, small samples, heterogeneous intervention formats, short follow-up, and variable outcome measures prevent firm conclusions.