Author(s): Shivani Kamal, Khawairakpam Sharmila and Purnima Rastogi

Abstract:
This study investigated the association between regular and irregular yoga practice and mental health status in young adults. Using multistage random sampling, 150 young adults (18-25 years; 83 females, 67 male) from Lucknow City were categorized as regular (n = 85; ≥3 sessions/week for ≥6 months) or irregular (n = 65) yoga practitioners. Data were collected via self-made sociodemographic and yoga practice questionnaires, and the Mental Health Continuum-Short Form (MHC-SF). Results showed regular practitioners had significantly higher MHC-SF scores (total M = 4.2, SD = 0.8) than irregular practitioners (M = 3.1, SD = 1.1; t(148) = 5.67, p<0.001) across emotional, psychological, and social well-being domains. Urban residence and higher parental education were associated with regular practice. Hatha yoga, preferred by regulars, correlated with better social well-being. A strong positive correlation (r = 0.62, p<0.01) indicated that consistent yoga practice enhances mental health. The study concludes that regular yoga is crucial for maintaining and improving mental well-being in young adults, contrasting with poorer outcomes from irregular practice.