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COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., July 30 /PRNewswire/ -- What does yoga have to do with binge eating? Apparently quite a bit. In a study conducted at the University of the Rockies, a graduate university specializing in master's and doctorate degrees in psychology, binge eaters who participated in a 10-week yoga therapy program had their binge eating episodes drop from about five to less than two per week. The program combined an hour of yoga with a half-hour group discussion each week. 

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090730/LA54760) 

According to lead researcher Deborah Patz Clarke, yoga addresses the mind-body disconnect that's so prevalent in our society, particularly among binge eaters. People with eating disorders escape life's turbulence by over- or under-eating to numb disturbing emotions. They substitute their relationship with food for real connections or feelings in their lives. Yoga helps them learn to be in the moment and to handle things they used to avoid with food. 

"Yoga also raises awareness of and responsiveness to the body, which makes it an ideal modality for helping treat psychological disorders that take the body hostage, such as eating disorders or substance addictions," Clarke said. "By reconnecting with their body, people find that the desire to abuse their body significantly decreases." 

University of the Rockies

University of the Rockies is a graduate school specializing in master's and doctorate degree programs in psychology. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, classes are offered online and at the university's Colorado Springs campus. University students provide free and low-cost psychological services to the underserved through the University of the Rockies Foundation's Switzer Center. The Foundation is an independent, not-for-profit organization supporting students through scholarships, assistantships and other activities. 

    Debbie Mitchell, Mullen Public Relations
    602.222.4343 - dmitchell@mullenpr.com

    Erin Vredevoogd . Mullen Public Relations
    602.222.4343 - evredevoogd@mullenpr.com  

SOURCE University of the Rockies

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090730/LA54760
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

SOURCE: University of the Rockies