How yoga interventions are operationalized and reported in the context of mental health and wellbeing RCTs: a systematic review and qualitative synthesis.
BMC complementary medicine and therapies December 22, 2025 Mary C Frazier, Masha Remskar, Samantha M Harden et al.
Yoga is a popular intervention for mental health and wellbeing, but how it is defined and described in research varies widely, hindering replication and practical use. This systematic review analyzed 129 randomized controlled trials from 2013 to 2024 and found that yoga is most often operationalized as a mind-body or mind-body-spirit practice that includes physical postures, meditation, and breathing exercises. Some studies also frame yoga as a complementary and alternative medicine or as a broader system encompassing philosophy and practices. The review provides recommendations to improve how yoga interventions are reported, aiming to support clearer translation and implementation in mental health settings.