#Mindbody

In a sunlit studio tucked among Athens’ bustling streets, a quiet movement is taking shape that goes beyond stretches and postures. Shakti yoga classes, named after the Sanskrit concept of powerful feminine energy, are being pitched as more than fitness—they’re described as pathways to resilience and personal liberation. The lead of the recent report paints a picture of a local community turning to a holistic practice that blends breath, posture, and mindful intention to help participants weather stress, grief, and life’s daily pressures. Early observations from class organizers suggest participants feel steadier under pressure, more in control of their reactions, and more capable of naming and moving through difficult emotions. For many, the aim is not just physical flexibility but a renewed sense of agency, a feeling of breaking free from old patterns that once dictated mood and behavior.

A rising sleep crisis in Thailand could find relief in an ancient practice now backed by science. A comprehensive meta-analysis in Sleep and Biological Rhythms shows that short, high-intensity yoga sessions—under 30 minutes, practiced twice weekly—can outperform walking, resistance training, and aerobic exercise in improving sleep quality. In communities where up to 30% of adults report chronic insomnia symptoms, these findings offer a culturally resonant path to better rest.

The study marks a shift in how sleep disorders are treated, moving beyond medication and generic exercise plans toward targeted mind-body practices. Thai healthcare providers have long sought alternatives to sleeping pills, which can cause dependency and diminish effectiveness, especially among older adults with persistent sleep disturbances. Conducted by researchers from Harbin Sport University, the meta-analysis evaluated 30 clinical trials across several countries to rank exercise interventions for sleep improvement by type, intensity, and duration.

Thailand’s growing sleep crisis has found an unexpected champion in an ancient practice that predates modern medicine by millennia, as groundbreaking research reveals yoga’s superior effectiveness in combating insomnia compared to conventional exercise approaches. A comprehensive meta-analysis published in Sleep and Biological Rhythms demonstrates that high-intensity yoga sessions lasting less than 30 minutes, performed just twice weekly, outperform walking, resistance training, and aerobic exercise in improving sleep quality for people worldwide. For Thailand’s increasingly sleep-deprived population—where up to 30% of adults in some communities report chronic insomnia symptoms—these findings offer a scientifically validated pathway to better rest that aligns perfectly with the kingdom’s rich contemplative traditions.

A major new analysis has found that high-intensity yoga performed for less than 30 minutes, twice a week, may be the most effective exercise for improving sleep quality. The findings, which come from a broad meta-analysis published on July 11 in Sleep and Biological Rhythms, place yoga ahead of other commonly recommended activities such as walking, resistance training, and aerobic exercise, challenging previous notions about the best fitness routines for those struggling to get a good night’s rest (sciencenews.org).

Trauma care is evolving in Thailand as researchers highlight mind-body and somatic therapies that connect the body and brain. New findings suggest that traditional talk therapy alone may miss crucial symptoms that show up as chronic pain, muscle tension, or nervous system dysregulation. For Thai readers, this means accessible options that align with local understandings of healing and wellbeing.

Thailand is increasingly discussing mental health, trauma from accidents and natural disasters, and the cultural norms around expressing emotions. Body-centered approaches could complement existing treatments and resonate with culturally familiar practices.

A growing body of research is turning the spotlight on somatic and mind-body therapies, suggesting these innovative approaches may hold the key to healing deep-rooted trauma by bridging the often-overlooked disconnect between the brain and the body. The latest developments, drawing from recent analyses, propose that traditional talk therapy alone may not always address the full complexity of trauma, especially when symptoms manifest physically as chronic pain, tension, or autonomic dysregulation. This emerging perspective holds significant relevance for Thai readers, given the country’s rising conversations around mental health, traumatic stress from accidents or natural disasters, and cultural attitudes towards emotional expression.

Chronic pain is a lifelong burden for millions. New research shows three non-drug therapies—cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and pain reprocessing therapy (PRT)—can meaningfully reduce pain and improve quality of life. Telehealth is helping bring these options to patients in rural and underserved areas.

Global estimates show chronic pain persisting for three months or more, affecting about 8% to 11% of people, with higher rates in developed countries. In Thai clinics, back pain, headaches, and muscle problems are among the most common complaints. Beyond physical discomfort, chronic pain often disrupts sleep, mood, and daily routines. Traditional approaches rely heavily on medications, but these treatments can lose effectiveness over time and carry risks of overuse and side effects.

Emerging research is reshaping the management of chronic pain, with promising evidence for psychological interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and pain reprocessing therapy (PRT). In a recent article by the Washington Post, experts highlighted three non-pharmacological techniques shown to help people manage persistent pain—offering hope for millions of Thais living with chronic conditions that medications alone often fail to alleviate (Washington Post).

Chronic pain, defined as pain lasting three months or longer, affects between 8% to 11% of people globally, with higher rates in more industrialized countries. Thailand is no exception, where back pain, headaches, and muscle disorders are among the most common complaints seen in clinics nationwide (Wikipedia). Persistent pain drains not only physical vitality but also mental health, often leading to depression, sleep difficulties, and profound disruption of daily life. Traditionally, treatment emphasized medications—ranging from paracetamol to opioids—but these often fall short for patients with ongoing pain and pose risks such as overuse, dependence, and diminished effectiveness over time.

A wave of fresh scientific research has reaffirmed a growing understanding in psychology: even when traumatic memories seem to fade from the mind, the human body continues to carry traces of distress for years, sometimes decades. This discovery, recently highlighted by mental health advocates and major studies alike, is forcing a rethink of how therapy and recovery are approached—particularly for Thais who may have lived through periods of violence, natural disaster, or family turmoil.

Trauma can linger in the body long after the memory fades. New science shows that physical symptoms—headaches, fatigue, stomach trouble, and chronic pain—can persist even when someone believes they have moved on. This insight is changing how therapists approach recovery, with growing emphasis on treating both mind and body. For Thai readers, it highlights the importance of holistic care especially in communities that historically suppress emotional pain.

A prominent study from the University of Oklahoma followed survivors of a major bombing incident. Seven years later, researchers found elevated inflammation markers and lower cortisol levels in survivors who appeared mentally healthy. In other words, the body remained on alert even when the mind seemed to be at peace. Lead author Dr. Phebe Tucker notes that resilience of the mind does not guarantee biological recovery, signaling potential long-term health risks if left unaddressed.

Growing interest in Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), or “tapping,” blends acupressure with mindful affirmation. It has gained traction on social media, in wellness podcasts, and in book sales, with many users sharing relief from anxiety and stress. Yet a rising number of mental health experts warn that scientific support is limited, urging Thai readers to approach hype with caution.

Tapping appears simple: practitioners tap a sequence of points on the body while focusing on distress and repeating calming phrases. Proponents claim that tapping can aid depression, PTSD, chronic pain, addiction, and day-to-day stress far beyond basic relaxation. Data from research groups in the United States shows the technique has attracted hundreds of practitioners, including in Southeast Asia, who offer specialized certification.

A centuries-old healing concept, reborn in modern times as “tapping” or Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), is stirring both popular appeal and scientific debate. This practice, a blend of acupressure and mindful affirmation, has surged on social media, wellness podcasts, and even book charts, with many users claiming it brings relief from anxiety and other psychological burdens. Yet, while some advocates promise tapping could revolutionize mental well-being, a growing contingent of mental health experts cautions: the scientific evidence remains shaky at best, with many researchers warning Thai readers not to take the hype at face value (nytimes.com).

A new study on out-of-body experiences (OBEs) rekindles the debate over whether consciousness resides solely in the brain or could extend beyond the body. Published in Frontiers in Psychology in April 2025, the research draws from in-depth interviews with ten individuals who describe awareness drifting outside their bodies, challenging conventional brain-centered views. Descriptive references point to the study’s nuanced accounts and their implications for neuroscience and philosophy.

The findings matter beyond theory. For Thai readers, OBEs intersect with Buddhist and local spiritual traditions that speak of consciousness, spirit, or subtle states beyond ordinary perception. In Thailand, conversations about วิญญาณ (spirit or consciousness) often blend cultural beliefs with scientific inquiry, creating a unique arena for discussing how mind and body connect.

A new scientific study detailing the enigmatic phenomenon of out-of-body experiences (OBEs) is sparking fresh debate on a long-standing question: Does consciousness reside entirely inside the brain, or could it exist somewhere beyond our physical bodies? Published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology in April 2025, the research offers a rare look into the lived accounts of individuals who claim to have experienced their awareness drifting outside their bodies, challenging conventional, brain-centric views of human consciousness (yahoo.com).

A new wave of research and personal testimony is drawing urgent attention to “high-functioning depression” — a form of depressive illness where sufferers maintain outward productivity while battling hidden internal distress. Unlike classic depression, which is often marked by withdrawal or inability to function, high-functioning depression stays masked beneath impressive academic, professional, or social achievement. The latest findings and expert recommendations, popularized in new media and books, reveal both the signs to watch for and actionable steps to escape this insidious cycle. This emerging understanding is vital for Thai society, where high performance and social harmony are deeply valued, increasing the risk that invisible suffering goes undetected.

A growing body of research and personal stories reveals a quiet form of depression that can affect high achievers: high-functioning depression. People live with inner distress while maintaining productivity and outward success. In Thailand, where performance and harmony are highly valued in workplaces, campuses, and families, this condition can easily go unnoticed.

For Thai readers in demanding roles, the issue hits close to home. A respected U.S. psychiatrist notes that success and public recognition can mask deep sadness. Thai culture’s emphasis on face-saving and collectivism can also discourage people from showing vulnerability. Understanding these dynamics helps communities spot hidden distress before it worsens.

A new wave of scientific research has cast doubt on the long-held belief that post-exercise cool-downs are crucial to workout recovery. While the warm-up remains undisputedly important for reducing injury risk and boosting exercise effectiveness, recent studies suggest that the much-touted cool-down may not be as physiologically necessary as traditionally believed—a finding with significant implications for busy Thais striving to fit regular exercise into their packed schedules (The New York Times).

New research questions the tradition that a post-exercise cool-down is essential for recovery. While warming up remains crucial for reducing injury risk and improving performance, recent studies suggest cool-downs may not be physiologically necessary for the average healthy exerciser. For busy Thais, this could mean greater flexibility in how to structure workouts without sacrificing results.

This shift challenges a long-standing Thai fitness norm reinforced by gym coaches, online programs, and public health campaigns. Cool-downs—five to ten minutes of light movement or stretching—have been promoted as a safe way to lower heart rate and lessen soreness. Yet scientists now argue that the primary recovery benefits are not as strong as once thought.

Forget sit-ups — Thailand’s fitness enthusiasts may soon be picking up their dumbbells for a new, science-backed way to achieve a rock-solid core and better balance. A recent feature published in Tom’s Guide highlights a Pilates workout by Coach Kel, blending classic core-strengthening moves with resistance and balance challenges Tom’s Guide. This not only promises sculpted abs, but also improved posture, flexibility, and a reduced risk of injury. With its growing popularity in Thailand, could Pilates soon outpace traditional workouts — and change our understanding of core training?

Thailand’s fitness scene is shifting. A science-backed Pilates approach could soon replace traditional sit-ups as the go-to method for a strong core, better balance, and safer movement. A recent feature highlights Coach Kel’s Pilates-inspired routine, which blends core work with resistance and dynamic balance challenges. This method promises not only sculpted abs but also improved posture, greater flexibility, and lower injury risk. With growing interest across Thai cities, could Pilates redefine core training here?

A groundbreaking new study published in the European Journal of Neuroscience is reshaping our understanding of how anxiety affects bodily awareness—especially among women. According to the research, women who experience high levels of anxiety are significantly less able to accurately interpret signals from their own bodies, such as subtle changes in breathing. This gender-specific effect is not seen in men, underscoring the need for more nuanced approaches to mental health, and has important implications for how Thai society addresses anxiety among women (source: Vice).

A new European study reshapes how we view anxiety’s effect on bodily awareness, especially among women. The research finds that high anxiety makes it harder for women to accurately interpret subtle bodily signals, such as small changes in breathing. Men did not show the same pattern, highlighting the need for gender-sensitive mental health strategies. In Thailand, these findings offer a scientific explanation for a common feeling many women describe—being “out of tune” with their bodies when stressed—and underscore the importance of inclusive screening and support within Thai health care.