Yoga brings mental relief in a Zimbabwe township tavern
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Yahoo
33 minutes ago
- Yahoo
OCD's Origins Might Not Lie in The Brain Like We Thought
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects up to 3 percent of people worldwide and remains one of the most challenging mental health conditions to treat effectively. That makes any fresh insight into OCD's root causes especially valuable – like a new study pointing to a surprising suspect: the bacteria living in our gut. The research from China explored how the gut microbiota – the complex community of bacteria that live in the digestive system – may influence whether a person develops OCD, and identified six types of bacteria that appear to be linked with the condition. A steady stream of studies has shown close connections between the brain and the gut, but this is the first to provide compelling evidence that gut bacteria may actually help cause it. The researchers used genetic data to strengthen the case for causation. Related: "Previous studies have indicated a potential link between the gut microbiota and OCD," write the researchers from Chongqing Medical University in their published paper. "However, the exact causal relationship remains uncertain." "Our analysis suggested that specific gut microbiota might have a causal relationship with OCD, revealing potential intervention strategies for the prevention and treatment of this disorder." To explore this link, the researchers used a genetic approach known as Mendelian randomization, which allows scientists to infer causality by analyzing genetic variants that influence both OCD and gut bacteria. They assessed links between genetic data and gut bacteria in a sample of 18,340 people, and the links between genetic data and OCD in a separate sample of 199,169 people. Although these were two discrete sets of data, the study used Mendelian randomization to essentially bridge the gap and connect gut bacteria patterns with OCD. Because our genes are fixed at birth and not shaped by environment or lifestyle, this method helps strengthen the case that gut bacteria might directly contribute to OCD, rather than just being an effect of it. However, more data and more controlled experiments will be needed to confirm a causal link. Three types of bacteria appeared to be protective against OCD: Proteobacteria, Ruminococcaceae, and Bilophila. Another three seemed to increase the risk of OCD: Bacillales, Eubacterium, and Lachnospiraceae UCG001. Interestingly, many of these bacteria have been linked with the brain before. For example, previous studies have found a connection between low levels of Ruminococcaceae species and depression. These findings expand what we already know about the gut-brain axis and how one can affect the other. "Future research should employ longitudinal designs and diverse populations to validate and expand upon these findings, as well as a more in-depth classification of microbes and their metabolic products, to further understand the role of gut microbiota in OCD," write the researchers. Down the line – and it's still a way off – we may have a new way to treat or prevent OCD, by controlling gut bacteria mixtures. For people living with the condition – and the families, friends, and clinicians who support them – this could eventually offer new hope. "Despite the utilization of cognitive behavioral therapy and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in OCD treatment, a notable 25–40 percent of patients experience suboptimal or no response to these interventions," write the researchers. "Moreover, the personal and societal toll of OCD is substantial." The research has been published in the Journal of Affective Disorders. The News Cycle Is a Stress Monster. But There's a Healthy Way to Stay Informed. Surprise Discovery About Sugar in The Brain Could Help Fight Alzheimer's Air Pollution 'Strongly Associated' With DNA Mutations Tied to Lung Cancer
Forbes
an hour ago
- Forbes
From Isolation To Intention: How We Can Embrace And Ease Loneliness
Group of people holding hand together in the park 'It did not get easier; it just got different,' said Dr. Christina Wyman, a USA Today bestselling author and teacher living in Michigan, who experienced the devastating effects of chronic loneliness for five years. 'Most of my evenings and weekends were spent alone, filled with a silence that echoed within my ears, in my throat, and deep into my chest,' she shared. According to a new report from the UN World Health Organization (WHO), one in six people experience loneliness, a reality with serious implications for health and well-being. Loneliness has become a pressing public health concern, threatening our quality of life, safety, and even our environment. Among older adults, loneliness and social isolation are recognized as top issues in aging. A 2025 study by the Alliance for Health Policy revealed that mental health challenges and isolation are pervasive among this population—often stemming from loss, chronic pain, and systemic neglect. So, how do we reduce feelings of loneliness, particularly among vulnerable older adults and others at risk? The answer is complex. Loneliness is a deeply human experience—multifaceted, unique, and shaped by personal history. Perhaps, instead of trying to "cure" loneliness, the solution lies in learning to embrace it, even as we work to ease its effects—especially in chronic cases. Dutch priest and theologian Henri Nouwen once wrote that, "The best of community does give one a deep sense of belonging and well-being; and in that sense, community takes away loneliness." A wealth of research supports this—community can help reduce loneliness. But not just any community will do. What we truly need is a sense of belonging—spaces where we feel safe, respected, and valued. Take older caregivers, for instance. Loneliness can be acute or chronic. But access to support groups, intentional friendships, or local resources—such as respite care services or adult day programs—can ease the burden. Even if loneliness persists, these supports can make a painful situation more bearable. Dr. Kayse Maass, an industrial engineer who leads the Operations Research and Social Justice Lab at Northeastern University, put it plainly: 'What we often need is community care [...] but we also need to design our systems and communities so people have space to live healthy lifestyles.' Advancing community care demands a foundational shift toward empathy—a cultural framework that affirms each individual's worth, dignity, and need for connection. Older women playing board game in a retirement home. While systemic change is crucial, we also hold personal power. There are meaningful ways to embrace and work through loneliness, regardless of age or circumstance. Here are a few: 1. Find An Intentional Community Start small. Volunteer at a local thrift store. Chat with staff at your neighborhood coffee shop. Attend a book club, faith group, or fitness class. Even if you're not ready to participate, being present at trivia nights, karaoke events, or support groups can offer a sense of connection. The key is to seek out communities that align with your interests and values. Lastly, stay open to forming friendships across all ages—you never know who might become a meaningful connection. 2. Build Resilience To Loneliness There will be times when others aren't available. So, how do we cope? Engage in self-care practices: take walks, spend time in nature, try crafts, journal, or meditate. Pursue activities that bring joy or offer a sense of purpose. Speaking with a mental health professional can also help—both to navigate your circumstances and to determine whether loneliness might be linked to conditions like depression or social anxiety. Still, it's important to remember: building resilience doesn't erase systemic barriers. Privilege plays a significant role in shaping who has access to resources and support. 3. Acknowledge Your True Self Are you more introverted, extroverted, or somewhere in between? Do you thrive in solitude, or are you energized by connection? Would moving closer to friends and loved ones improve your well-being? Reflecting on your social needs and relationship values can guide you toward deeper, more meaningful connections. Dr. Wyman shared, 'The lack of community I endured during this time became unsustainable. Less than a year before the pandemic took hold, I left my professional life and moved back in with Matt (her fiancé). I'd always been on the fast track toward a career. But in the end, the need for intimate human connection outweighed the promise of professional opportunity. [...] If not for my relationship, I'm confident I would have left the country in search of other cultures.' She isn't alone. Deep down, we all yearn for closeness, companionship, and the comfort of belonging. 4. Fight The Stigma Of Loneliness Embracing loneliness begins with confronting the stigma that surrounds it. It means reminding ourselves—and each other—that feeling lonely is a natural part of being human. When we accept this truth and integrate it into our thinking, we can begin to shift how we approach loneliness, both personally and collectively. People may feel less ashamed to speak openly and less afraid of being judged for their experiences. Ultimately, it's about being present with our reality, acknowledging our feelings without shame, and seeking out safe spaces where we can share our stories and be heard. Volunteers sitting outdoors wearing warm casual clothing on a sunny cold winters day. They are ... More resting and having a tea break from working on a community farm, looking after crops and performing other sustainable and environmentally friendly tasks. They are laughing and talking together, drinking hot drinks. Chronic or lifelong loneliness is no small matter. It can take a profound toll on both emotional and physical health. And for many, progress may come slowly—if at all—depending on their circumstances. But any progress is still meaningful, even if that progress is learning to sit with loneliness, to understand it, and to embrace it gently. As Nouwen put it: 'The question is whether we let our aloneness become loneliness, or whether we allow it to lead us into solitude. Loneliness is painful; solitude is peaceful. [...] It requires conscious choices about whom to be with, what to study, how to pray (or meditate), and when to ask for counsel.' His words remind us that by facing our loneliness, we can transform it into solitude—a peaceful space where we rediscover intimacy with ourselves and forge more authentic connections with others. Embracing loneliness (rather than fearing it) doesn't mean staying in the same place emotionally or in society. It's about accepting ourselves, practicing self-compassion, and finding hope in challenging situations. At the very least, it may help us discover new ways of empathizing and relating to each other.
Yahoo
4 hours ago
- Yahoo
The best yoga mat for 2025, tested and reviewed
Whether you're new to yoga or looking to elevate your practice as part of your summer wellness goals, starting with a top-performing yoga mat is a smart move. The best yoga mat will keep you grounded as you deepen into poses, help you stay steady while flowing through warrior three and offer the right support for your knees and joints to keep you comfortable during your practice."[A yoga] mat is like a good pair of jeans. You want a good fit," says Marisa Barsotti, an Ayurvedic health educator, yoga instructor and the owner of Digest Peacefully. And, like a good pair of jeans, the best yoga mat isn't likely to be the cheapest one you can find. "While spending $25 or less on a mat seems much more wallet-friendly, it will more than likely start to degrade within a few months," she may seem like an easy enough purchase — just a simple rectangle you roll out on the floor. But as our experts explain, the world of yoga mats is surprisingly varied, and the mat you choose can greatly impact your comfort, performance and safety as you practice."Different yoga mats are better suited for individuals based on their unique needs, preferences and the specific type of yoga practice they engage in," says Ilene Cohen, a Los Angeles-based dietitian, yoga teacher and certified yoga therapist. Plus, some mats are more environmentally friendly than others or offer other features, like being machine washable or easily packable for better understand the different types and benefits of yoga mats, our team spoke with five yoga experts and researched more than 25 products. We then tested our top 16 contenders to determine the best yoga mats on the market. Whether you're looking for the best mat for hot yoga, the best budget yoga mat, the best travel yoga mat, the best yoga mat for mastering alignment during your home practice or the best yoga mat for tall people, we've got you covered. Here are our top picks for the best yoga mats of 2025. Best yoga mat overall More yoga mats we like in 2025 Types of yoga mats Factors to consider when purchasing a yoga mat How we chose the best yoga mats FAQs Other yoga mats we tested Best yoga mat specs comparison chart Meet our experts Update, July 7th, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability and added a handy specs comparison chart at the bottom. Our No. 1 pick for best yoga mat remains unchanged. (back to top) (back to top) When buying a yoga mat, you might be surprised by how many different types there are to choose from. While there are several factors to consider (more on that below), it's helpful to think about yoga mats in a few main categories. The most common type of mat is a standard yoga mat. These mats are rectangularly shaped and are typically around 3 millimeters thick, 68 to 72 inches long and 24 inches wide. You can find various standard yoga mats, ranging in color, texture, weight, thickness and materials. A general rule of thumb is if you're over 6 feet tall, you'll want to invest in a long yoga mat. While exact lengths vary by company, long mats are typically around 79 to 84 inches long. Some companies also offer wide mats for extra space to move. If you have sensitive joints or an injury (and have been given the OK to practice yoga), you'll want to consider a mat with extra cushioning and support. These mats typically range from around 6 millimeters to 12 millimeters thick. Just keep in mind that you'll likely notice less stability with increased thickness. Designed for people on the go, travel mats are thinner and lighter than standard yoga mats. Some travel mats are also foldable, allowing you to easily stash one in your backpack or gym bag. These mats have a smooth surface that's easy to clean. However, they can get slippery and aren't ideal if you tend to sweat a lot during your practice. Textured mats are designed to reduce slipping and sliding. Some mats are more textured than others. While more highly textured mats offer excellent grip, some people may not like the rough feel on their hands. They can also be more difficult to clean than smooth mats. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is one of the most commonly used materials for yoga mats. In addition to being a cheaper material, it's known for being durable. Unfortunately, PVC mats are not eco-friendly and may release harmful chemicals, especially when used in hot and sweaty environments. Luckily, many companies are starting to use more eco-friendly, nontoxic materials. These materials include thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), natural rubber, polyurethane (PU), jute, cork, hemp, cotton and recycled neoprene. (back to top) Shopping for a yoga mat might seem overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. First, determine what features you need, then look for a mat that ticks all the boxes. Key factors to consider include: Length: Yoga mats typically range from 68 to 72 inches long, though some mats are available in extra-long sizes. To determine the right length, Barsotti recommends choosing a length that's "your height in inches plus 8 inches, which gives you 4 inches on each end for a comfortable savasana." Weight: Yoga mats can vary in weight from as little as 2 pounds to up to 8 pounds. If you practice yoga at home, the weight of your mat may not matter too much. However, if you plan on lugging your mat around all day, you'll want to consider a lightweight travel option. Thickness: Perhaps one of the biggest factors to consider is thickness, with mat options typically ranging from 1.5 millimeters to 12 millimeters thick. Thicker mats may be better for people with achy joints or who practice yoga on hard surfaces. They can also be a good option for more restorative-based practices where you spend a lot of time sitting or lying on the mat. However, overly thick mats might make balance poses more challenging. For this reason, yoga instructor in training Brandy Winfree Root, RDN, recommends a thinner mat if you're primarily focused on "stability and advancing in pose work." Grip: To keep yourself safe during yoga, your mat must offer adequate grip for your practice. While gentler yoga practices don't require a particularly grippy mat, if you practice a more dynamic style, like vinyasa, you'll want to choose a mat designed to support quick transitions and minimize slipping and sliding. Adequate grip is actually twofold. You want a mat that grips well to the floor so it doesn't slide around, and a mat that feels grippy (or even "sticky") under your hands and feet so you feel "locked in" as you work through each pose. Practice style: Our experts agree that your individual practice style is one of the most important factors when deciding on a mat. According to Cohen, thicker mats are better suited for gentle yoga with restorative poses, whereas for more dynamic forms, like vinyasa or ashtanga, "mats with excellent grip are crucial to ensure stability." Cohen recommends a natural rubber mat with a textured surface for these practices. If you're a fan of hot yoga, open-cell mats can be a good option, as they absorb moisture better than closed-cell mats. Materials: Certified yoga trainer Stacy Joyce explains, "Most yoga mats are made from PVCs that have a strong chemical smell that can linger for quite some time." While these mats are often cheaper, it can be worth paying a little extra for materials that are a bit more natural and eco-friendly. Examples to look for include natural rubber, eco-polyurethane and cork. You'll also find mats that are colored using natural flower- or herb-based dyes. Price: Most of the mats on our list hover around $50 to $100. However, there are yoga mats available for nearly any budget. Just keep in mind that while you don't have to spend $100 to get a high-quality mat, buying a lower-quality product could mean replacing your mat sooner rather than later. (back to top) Choosing the best yoga mats was no small feat. To narrow our testing pool, we talked to friends, family members, four yoga instructors and a yoga instructor in training to get a sense of what to look for in a mat and which brands should be on our radar. As someone who has practiced yoga for over 15 years, I also had a general idea of brands that I've used in the past and which ones I thought were worth the cost. Using these insights, we researched over 25 mats and put 16 to the test. Each mat was tested twice: once for a gentle, 30-minute flow on a hardwood floor and a second time for a 45-minute vinyasa yoga class. (back to top) Alo Yoga Warrior Mat: Designed for hot yoga, this mat has a smooth, luxurious surface with ample grip. However, it doesn't feel particularly durable, a concern backed up by several reviews on the company's website. For this reason, we couldn't justify the $148 price tag. prAna Verde Yoga Mat: This mat was the most rubbery-feeling mat we tried and one of the most textured — a feeling we didn't love on our hands or when lying down. While it's aesthetically pleasing and very grippy, the strong rubber texture and smell kept it from making our list. Yoga Accessories 1/4-inch Extra Thick Deluxe Yoga Mat: This budget-friendly mat features a plush, smooth surface that, while great for stretching or slow practices, had us slipping and wobbling during testing. Manduka Begin Yoga Mat 5mm: Manduka's mats are traditionally geared to more practiced yogis, both in price and quality. The brand's new Begin mat aims to close the gap, offering a lower-cost option for yoga newbies. We liked the mat's alignment stripe down the middle (helpful for those new to yoga) and the fact that the mat is reversible. That said, it felt similar in form and function to the Gaiam mat we selected as our best budget option, but at more than twice the price. Manduka Yogitoes Yoga Mat Towel: We actually love the Manduka Yogitoes Yoga Mat Towel. For one thing, the nonslip silicone nubs on its underside keep it affixed squarely to your mat — you don't have to worry about it moving around or sliding away. The top of the towel is also immediately grippy, making it a great option to use in conjunction with a mat that's a little slippery, like the Manduka Pro or the Scoria cork mat. And truly, it makes an acceptable travel mat stand-in if you're so inclined. That said, it's not technically a yoga mat and doesn't offer the support that a true mat does. Plus, at $68, it's a little spendy. (back to top) The best material for a yoga mat varies depending on your priorities. For example, natural rubber and polyurethane are good options because they're eco-friendly, durable and easy to clean. However, they're often more expensive than synthetic rubber or PVC mats. While not as eco-friendly, microfiber mats can be a good option if you're looking for a lightweight, grippy mat that's durable and easy to clean. Your yoga mat should be wiped down with a yoga-mat-specific cleaning solution after every use to prevent the growth of bacteria. It's essential to read your mat's care instructions to ensure which solution is safe. It's also a good idea to do a deep clean once a month to remove dirt and grime. The best way to clean a yoga mat is with a DIY or store-bought yoga mat cleaner. Just be sure to read your mat's care instructions. Depending on the materials, specific cleaning solutions may not be recommended. For deep cleaning, thick, open-cell mats can be submerged in soapy water, while thin, closed-cell mats should be spot-cleaned. While you can technically use any mat for hot yoga, it's best to use a textured rubber mat with a good grip to prevent slipping and sliding. Choosing an open-cell mat that absorbs sweat more quickly is also a good idea. Just keep in mind that these mats retain more bacteria than closed-cell mats, so you'll want to be diligent about cleaning your mat soon after your workout. (back to top) Material Dimensions Thickness Weight JadeYoga Harmony Mat Natural rubber 68 inches x 24 inches 4.7 mm 5 lbs. Manduka Pro Yoga Mat 6mm Oeko-Tex certified PVC 71 inches x 26 inches 6 mm 7.5 lbs. Gaiam Classic Yoga Mat 5mm PVC 65 inches x 24 inches 5 mm 3.5 lbs. Manduka Grp Adapt Yoga Mat 5mm Open-cell polyurethane foam and natural rubber 71 inches x 26 inches 5 mm 5.5 lbs. Liforme Classic Yoga Mat Natural rubber base, eco-polyurethane top surface 72.8 inches x 26.8 inches 4.2 mm 5.5 lbs. Lululemon the Mat 5mm Natural and synthetic rubber, polyurethane, polyester, nylon 71 inches x 26 inches 5 mm 5.24 lbs. Manduka eKo Superlite Natural non-Amazon tree rubber 71 inches x 24 inches 1.5 mm 2 lbs. Yoga Design Lab the Combo Mat 5.5mm Recycled microfiber, non-Amazonian natural tree rubber 70 inches x 24 inches 5.5 mm 5 lbs. Wild Mingo Confetti Washable Workout Mat Recycled microsuede and natural tree rubber 72 inches x 24 inches 3 mm 5 lbs. Scoria X-Tall Blossom Cork Yoga Mat Natural cork and rubber 80 inches x 26 inches 4.5 mm 9.7 lbs. Liforme Rainbow Yoga Pad Natural rubber base, eco-polyurethane top surface 13 inches x 25 inches 4.2 mm 1.4 lbs. (back to top) Marisa Barsotti, RD, LD, Ayurvedic health educator, 200-hour registered yoga teacher (RYT) and owner of Digest Peacefully Ilene Cohen, MS, RDN, yoga teacher and certified yoga therapist Mandy Enright, Food + Movement dietitian, 500-hour RYT and author of 30-Minute Weight Loss Cookbook: Quick and Easy Recipes for Sustainable Weight Loss Stacy Joyce, certified yoga for scoliosis trainer with a specialization in spinal fusions Brandy Winfree Root, MBA, RDN, CSR, LDN, RYT-200 student/candidate (back to top) Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
