The Benefits of Yoga for Depression: Boosting Mood and Easing Anxiety
Yoga’s healing powers don’t just extend to physical ailments and injuries—mental health issues can also benefit from this ancient tradition, as well. Chronic depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses can make it difficult to get through each day and feel happy and at peace with the world around you. Yoga’s healing powers can bring these feelings back into your life and lift you up during these tough times. If you struggle with depression or anxiety, try integrating the following yoga poses into your routine to see if they help you feel happier and more relaxed!
The Benefits of Yoga for Depression:
One way to combat depression is through Yoga. Researchers have found that Yoga for depression has a variety of mood boosting benefits including reducing anxiety, increasing calmness, and more. One of the largest benefits from practicing yoga is increased levels of serotonin which creates an internal state in the body that helps you feel good. And there are many other health benefits when it comes to yoga as well including increased flexibility and focus. Plus, those who struggle with mental illness such as depression may find relief through this natural technique that focuses on mindfulness.
How to Get Started with Yoga for Depression
There are many ways you can practice yoga at home. It is most common that people use mats or blankets on the floor. One of the easiest ways to get started with yoga for depression is by practicing breathing exercises, like pranayama. Pranayama is a form of controlled breathing that helps stimulate your natural energy called prana. The beauty of doing this anywhere in the comfort of your home means it is easy for even beginners to enjoy yoga for depression.
There are three breathing techniques that have been practiced in various parts of the world since ancient times- The Calm Breathing Technique, Kapalabhati Breath, and Ujjayi Breath. And no matter what type you try, you will notice changes in both your mood and energy levels.
Simple Yoga Poses for Depression:
Depression is an awful illness that affects how a person lives every day. It can be debilitating, trapping you in a slump that sometimes feels impossible to climb out of. But luckily, yoga for depression is here! From being mindful in the present moment to breathing deeply and meditation, yoga has a number of natural practices that can help with depression symptoms. Here are seven of the most simple yoga poses that we recommend starting with when practicing yoga for depression:
-Standing spine stretch (Twists)
-Legs up the wall (Reclining hips)
-Seated twist (Lotus) -Cobra pose (Child’s pose) -Downward dog (Half lotus)
Breathing Exercises for Depression:
Breathing exercises can help treat depression. Here are some of the best breathing exercises for depression.
– Gentle Ujjayi Breathing Start by sitting in a comfortable position with your spine straight and your feet on the floor. Place one hand over your other hand, with both palms facing upward. Inhale through your nose, making sure that you don’t push any air out of your mouth or nose when you exhale. With each inhale, expand your stomach muscles like you’re filling up a balloon, then let the air out slowly through pursed lips as if you were blowing out a candle.
Meditation for Depression:
If you are feeling depressed or anxious, it is important to speak with a doctor. You may be experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder or another mental illness. Some people may need medication while others may need therapy. Your mental health professional will help you find the right treatment plan that will work best for you.
When to Seek Help:
If you are feeling hopeless, anxious, or constantly sad, you might be experiencing depression. It is important not to ignore these feelings. You might think that they will just go away on their own or that they are a normal part of life. However, depression is a serious condition that can lead to health problems if it is left untreated. Depression is not a character flaw or personal weakness; it is a medical illness. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, please talk with your doctor right away so that he/she can help you get better as soon as possible.
