A mindfulness exercise (yoga, tai chi or qigong) appears to improve some psychiatric symptoms as well as cognitive performance in individuals with schizophrenia

In August 2018 researchers from China and the USA published the results of their review of the scientific literature to assess whether a mindfulness exercise (yoga, tai chi or qigong) was more beneficial than physical exercise in individuals with schizophrenia. A total of seven studies were identified. Results showed that a mindfulness exercise was beneficial for some psychiatric symptoms with no clear difference being seen for “attention” and social functioning. In addition, it appeared that a mindfulness exercise improved “working memory”. However, it was noted that the evidence was of low quality.

Li J et al. Mindful exercise versus non-mindful exercise for schizophrenia: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2018 Aug;32:17-24

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