Role of diet and yoga in managing mental health

Abstract

Mental well-being is a growing concern in today’s world due to the increasing prevalence of suicide and mental illness. A sedentary lifestyle, chronic stress, and unhealthy dietary habits disrupt the gut–brain axis, thereby contributing to the development of mental disorders. Anxiety, depression, and mood disturbances are now commonly observed across individuals of all age groups. According to Ayurveda, swasthya (health) is defined as the equilibrium of doshas, dhatus, and malas, along with a balanced thought process and proper digestive fire (agni). Yoga and meditation have been shown to influence brain regions associated with fear and aggression, while activating pleasure centres that reduce anxiety and promote a greater sense of well-being. Regular physical exercise improves stamina, enhances metabolism, and brings harmony to thought processes. Yoga and meditation further cultivate mindfulness, strengthen cognitive function, and provide a holistic way of life. Unlike physical illnesses, which manifest through clear symptoms and signs, mental illness often remains unpredictable and difficult to detect. Facial expressions alone cannot accurately reflect emotions or mental well-being. Therefore, it becomes essential to adopt a wholesome diet along with yoga practices to improve mental health. Advancements in science and technology have proven to be both a boon and a curse—leading to challenges such as environmental pollution, destructive weaponry, and sedentary behaviour that fosters human laziness. The regimens described in Ayurveda, such as dinacharya (daily routine) and ratricharya (sleep regimen), when combined with yoga and meditation, play a significant role in enhancing mental health and promoting social well-being.

How to cite this article:
Joshi S, Role of diet and yoga in managing mental
health J Adv Res Ayur Yoga Unani Sidd Homeo.
2026;13(1&2): 1-6.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/2394.6547.202513