Effects of Yogic Intervention on Mental Health and Psychological Wellbeing of Female Prisoners

Abstract

The mental health and psychological well-being of female prisoners stands out as one of the most neglected issues affecting rehabilitation. Incarcerated women have increased levels of anxiety, stress, and depression which is made worse by the highly restraining and solitary environment of prisons. This research analysed the effect of a structured six-week yoga program on the mental health and psychological well-being of female prisoners. The program included yoga asanas, pranayama, meditation, and relaxation techniques, which targeted the psychological issues of the participants. 40 female prisoners were randomly divided into an experimental or control group. The experimental group underwent a yoga program for three months, while the control group continued their normal daily activities. Results indicated that within the experimental group, there was a statistically significant (p ≤ 0.05) reduction of anxiety, depression and stress scores in comparison to the control group. Anxiety scores dropped from 16.1±1.8 to 9.7±1.9, depression scores fell from 13.0±1.4 to 8.4±1.8 and stress scores declined from 12.7±1.0 to 8.7±1.9. The intervention achieved 47% less difficulty in breathing, 70% reduction in fainting feelings and over 50% reduction in nervousness, gastrointestinal distress, chest tightness and nausea. Empty feelings (39%) as well as self-efficacy (50%) concerns and profound sadness (55%) were lessened significantly. Spontaneous crying (44%) and poor self-perceived health (47%) were undergoing severe emotional regulation improvement. Stress symptoms improved alongside participants’ self-reported difficulties relaxing, which dropped by 44%, negative reactions that dropped by 45%, and intrusive thoughts that decreased by 60%. The study indicates that yoga asana practice serves as an effective psychotherapeutic tool in alleviating psychological distress, strengthening emotional coping resources, and enhancing mental health among women serving prison sentences. Incorporating yoga-based programs in prison rehabilitation programs can help in the psychological and holistic recovery of women prisoners.