'I feel whole today' : mind and body in counselling psychology practice

• Main Author: Kahya, H.
• Published: City, University of London 2014
• Subjects: 158.3; BF Psychology
• Online Access: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.699407

The current study investigated the experience of the Yoga Therapy for the Mind (YTFTM) 8-week course, a manualised yoga and mindfulness-based intervention, for mild to moderate depression and anxiety. Eight female students from across four YTFTM courses participated in semi-structured interviews exploring their experiences of the course. Interviews were analysed using an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, with thirteen subordinate themes emerging and grouping into four super-ordinate themes: Personal Journey of Change, Ambivalence, Mind/Body Connection and Group Experience. The findings of the study have been interpreted in light of relevant literature from across the fields of psychology, neuroscience and Buddhist and yogic philosophy. The findings echo previous research into comparable mindfulness-based courses, but suggest there may also be additional psychological benefits to the practice of yoga asana. These added benefits include a more holistic and embodied understanding of psychological distress and adaptive coping strategies, as well as enhanced wellbeing. Recommendations have been made with a view to influencing future courses and Counselling Psychologists interested in developing a more holistic approach to therapy.