How to Use Yoga to Manage OCD

Alternative treatment therapies are continuing to influence mainstream practices in the medical field for conditions such as obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). As more people become dissatisfied with traditional medical care, they are turning to alternatives such as yoga. While only a few alternative therapies have thus far been scientifically tested for efficacy, yoga is among them. This ancient exercise system has a number of proven health benefits, including the treatment of OCD.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Learn to Use Yoga to Manage OCD

1. Understand that Kundalini yoga is the yoga of choice to manage the symptoms of OCD.
2. Sit in a comfortable position with your back straight and legs folded. The lotus or a modified lotus position works best for this. Situate yourself on the floor, a mat or on a firm cushion (if you require extra support).
3. Use your finger or a nose plug to close your right nostril.
4. Inhale deeply through your left nostril. Suck in as much breath as you can and do it slowly. Ideally, you should be constantly inhaling for a full 15 seconds.
5. Hold your breath for 15 seconds.
6. Exhale through your left nostril. Try to keep exhaling for 15 seconds.
7. Refrain from inhaling again for another 15 seconds.
8. Begin the breath cycle again by inhaling through your left nostril.
9. Continue to breath like this for 1 hour.
10. Repeat this exercise every day.

Tips & Warnings

• Breathing through your left nostril is supposed to stimulate the right side of your brain. In Kundalini yoga, the theory is that the right side of your brain controls emotions and psychiatric stability.
• Mindful breathing, such as this Kundalini yoga exercise, can also produce a deep relaxation. Relaxation helps to minimize stress, which in turn can help to minimize the symptoms of OCD.
• If your OCD symptoms are severe and are interfering in your enjoyment of life, you should seek professional medical help through a psychiatrist.
• If you are not able to inhale, exhale or hold your breath for a full 15 seconds, do not attempt to force yourself. You will only end up causing your body more stress and may even injure yourself. Instead, gradually increase your lung capacity and overall ability to perform this exercise by practicing it daily for as long you are able.
• If you experience any discomfort or dizziness during the performance of this exercise, stop immediately. Do not continue with this exercise until after you have consulted with a physician.

Who Can Help: