A Randomized Control Trial Treating Depression With Yoga and Coherent Breathing Versus Walking in Veterans

The proposed study addresses a gap regarding the need for effective Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) treatments and the 40% of individuals treated with antidepressant medications that do not achieve full remission. This study tests a novel approach for treating MDD in a Randomized Control Trial (RTC) using yoga versus walking interventions to correct an imbalance in the Autonomic Nervous System; an over active Sympathetic Nervous System (fight or flight) an underactive Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS) (rest, renewal and social engagement) and associated under activity in the neurotransmitter, gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA). This novel approach is complimentary to the use of antidepressant medications that primarily target the monoamine systems. Low activity in the PNS and GABA systems are also found in MDD, PTSD, and Alcohol Use Disorder, disorders representing a high healthcare burden in the Veteran population. This intervention has potential to provide relief for MDD and other disorders relevant the Veteran population