A mediational model on how yoga self-efficacy may improve eating disorder symptoms: the roles of mindfulness, self-compassion, and body appreciation

Yoga is associated with improvements in factors that protect against the development of eating disorders (EDs), such as mindfulness, self-compassion, and body appreciation. Additionally, yoga is associated with lower body dissatisfaction (BD) and disordered eating. However, research on how yoga reduces BD and ED symptoms is limited. This study examined how protective factors such as mindfulness, self-compassion, and body appreciation may mediate the relationship between yoga self-efficacy, BD, and ED symptoms. A sample of 174 college students with previous yoga experience (Mage = 20.10, SD = 2.49) and varying degrees of BD and ED symptoms participated. Mediations were performed using Hayes PROCESS (Model 6) and were significant (p = .012 and p < .0001). Yoga self-efficacy predicted lower BD and ED symptoms through increased mindfulness, which predicted higher self-compassion and then greater body appreciation. Findings suggest yoga self-efficacy could reduce BD and ED behaviors through increased awareness of internal and external cues, leading to increased self-kindness and appreciation for one's body. Given our current findings, ED prevention or treatment programs incorporating yoga could focus on elements including mindfulness, self-compassion, and body appreciation.