Yoga in secure services – Reflections and future directions

This article examines the potential of incorporating yoga as a complementary therapy in UK forensic settings, including prisons and secure mental health services. Highlighting the significant mental health treatment gaps in these environments, the author, a forensic psychologist and yoga teacher, advocates for holistic approaches to enhance traditional care. The discussion revolves around yoga’s benefits for mental health and its specific application to forensic populations, emphasising reductions in stress, aggression, and improvement in emotional well-being. Challenges in implementation and the need for specialised training for yoga teachers in forensic contexts are addressed. The article calls for more research into holistic mental health interventions and suggests developing resources for clinicians interested in integrating yoga into their practice.