Simple postural exercises may reduce depressive symptoms

“Further studies are needed to determine whether these exercises are most effective as adjunctive treatment to pharmacotherapy or can be used alone without medications,” he said.

In addition to larger efficacy studies, Dr. Furman reported that efforts to understand the mechanism of benefit are being considered, such as studies with functional MRI or EEG to evaluate the effect of the exercises on brain activity.

“We are excited about these results. If larger studies confirm efficacy, this may be a safe, innovative, and sustainable strategy to address major depression,” he said.

Dr. Furman reports no potential conflicts of interest related to this topic.