Effectiveness of yogic techniques in the management of anxiety

METHODS: Evaluated the efficacy of selected yoga practices as compared with drug (diazepam) therapy in anxiety-neurotic outpatients (aged 18-47 yrs). Subjects were administered a battery of tests pre- and post-treatment. RESULTS: Data indicated a significant rate of improvement in yoga subjects who completed the prescribed length (5 days/wk for 3 months) of yoga practices as compared with drug therapy. At least 7% of yoga subjects were reported to be completely asymptomatic as compared with none of the drug therapy.