Effect of yoga and mindfulness on psychological correlates in young athletes: A meta-analysis.
Journal of Ayurveda and integrative medicine January 1, 2023 Satish Kanaujia, Priyanka Saraswati, Anshu et al. 25 citations
A meta-analysis of 15 studies found that yoga and mindfulness practices significantly improve mindfulness and flow state in athletes aged 18–45, while reducing stress. The effect on mindfulness showed a mean difference of -2.6 (95% CI, -3.85 to -1.37), and flow state showed a standardized mean difference of 3.13 (95% CI, 2.48 to 3.77). Stress reduction was also significant (SMD -0.74, 95% CI, -0.97 to -0.52). However, effects on attention and awareness, action and acceptance, and anxiety were not statistically significant. The analysis suggests yoga and mindfulness offer complementary benefits for athletes' psychological health and performance.