Yoga Improves Sleep in Menopausal Women

Newly published research suggests that menopausal women who are suffering from insomnia may benefit from taking a regular yoga class. Katherine Newton, PhD, a senior investigator at Group Health Research Institute, and colleagues assigned 249 healthy, previously sedentary women to do yoga (12-week class, plus practice at home), a moderate aerobic exercise program, or neither—and to take an omega-3 fatty acid supplement or a placebo. Results showed that yoga was linked to less insomnia and depression, however only the association with insomnia was significant. Exercise was associated with slightly improved sleep and less insomnia and depression – but these effects were not statistically significant. The omega-3 supplement was not linked to any improvement in hot flashes, night sweats, sleep, or mood. “Many women suffer from insomnia during menopause, and it’s good to know that yoga may help them,” concluded Dr Newton.