How to Use Yoga to Fight Depression
Depression is an increasingly common affliction in this modern age, with over 121 million people diagnosed with this condition. Yoga has been shown to be effective in fighting depression. This discipline increases the oxygen circulating through your system, fighting lethargy and pessimism. It can also help you release the negative energy associated with depression, freeing you up to feel more positive and optimistic.
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Instructions
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Start by doing the Sun Salutation pose 12 times a day. Stand straight with your hands raised above your head and lean backwards. Slowly exhale, bend and touch your hands to the floor on either side of your feet. Step back with both legs, hold this position and slowly lower your body to the ground. Stretch your head to the ceiling, lower your head and push up with your hips. Step forward and reverse the process until you are standing with your hands raised above your head again.
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Follow the Sun Salutation with the Bow. Lie with your stomach on the floor and your hands beside your torso, palms up. Bend your knees and raise your upper body, grabbing your ankles. Stay in this pose for 20 to 30 seconds.
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Do the Plow next. Lie on your back with your hands above your head. Lift your legs over your head, touching your toes to the floor behind you. Hold your hands together above your head and pull gently. Return to your starting position, one vertebra at a time.
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Complete your session with the Corpse. Lie on your back, with your arms and legs spread slightly apart and twist your head gently from side-to-side. Then stretch yourself out as far as you can, breathe slowly and deeply and hold for several minutes.
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Tips & Warnings
Complete this brief yoga routine every day to help keep depression under control.
Breathe slowly and deeply while you complete your yoga poses. Consciously tightening and relaxing your muscles will increase the effectiveness of your yoga.
