Efficacy of yoga practices on emotion regulation and mindfulness in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients

Abstract

Introduction: Poor emotion regulation (ER) is linked to diabetes distress and depression that may contribute to uncontrolled glycemic levels among type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. As ER can adversely affect the physiological and psychological health of patients with T2DM, holistic management of the disease is essential. Yoga therapy is one such method that can positively impact both the mental and physical health of T2DM patients. Methods: Individuals with T2DM (n = 54) were recruited for the study and were randomly allocated to the intervention (yoga) group and control (conventional treatment) group. Cognitive reappraisal (CR) and expressive suppression (ES) were assessed as ER skills, and mindfulness was evaluated before and after the intervention. The intervention was provided for 3 months. Results: Participants of the yoga group showed an improved ER ability with increased CR and decreased ES. However, these changes were not statistically significant. ES was significantly reduced (p < 0.05) in the control group. In addition, the yoga group showed significantly increased (p < 0.05) mindfulness and was decreased in the control group. Conclusion: Yoga therapy positively affects the psychological well-being of T2DM patients.