Practicing yoga may prove beneficial to people with fibromyalgia, according to a study published in the journal Pain.

Over the course of eight weeks, a total of 53 female patients with the chronic muscle pain condition were either asked to add yoga to their daily routine or were given fibromyalgia medication. Prior to and after the study, both groups were surveyed about their symptoms and underwent several physical tasks.

As a result, the researchers discovered that the participants who did yoga experienced 24 percent less pain, fatigue was reduced by 30 percent and they were 42 percent less likely to suffer from depression.

The team concluded the leading cause of this study’s success was the participants’ commitment to practicing yoga either during a class or at home.

James Carson, lead author of the study, stated that “previous research suggests that the most successful treatment for fibromyalgia involves a combination of medications, physical exercise and development of coping skills.” He added that “based on the results of this research, we strongly believe that further study of this potential therapy is warranted.”

In addition to practicing yoga, fibromyalgia patients looking for natural alternatives to alleviate muscle pain can benefit from acupuncture, chiropractic treatments and therapeutic massage, according to the National Fibromyalgia Association.