Yoga’s regulating and energizing properties can help alleviate many of the symptoms of mild depression*. Yoga postures will activate and move prana in the body, open the heart center, stimulate the nervous system and balance the body-mind-spirit. A slow, gentle practice is recommended; do not overexert yourself or you may end up more tired than you began. Practice as often as possible; daily is most beneficial.
Yoga Postures
Use our Beat the Blues sequence as a general practice, and adding or emphasizing from our complete list of postures for Depression.
Pranayama
Practice Dirga and Nadi Sodhana Pranayamas to reduce stress and to calm the body, heart and mind. If there is excess fatigue, practice Kapalabhati Pranayama to energize the body.
Meditation
Meditation reduces stress, calms the mind, reduces negativity and creates a positive attitude. Use one of the following by itself and/or at the beginning and end of your yoga practice: Yoga Meditation, Heart Chakra Meditation, Mantra Meditation.
Articles
Healing Depression with Yoga
Better than Prozac?
Can Yoga Banish the Blues?
The Natural Prozac
Books and Videos
Yoga: the Path to Holistic Health
Yoga as Medicine
Yoga Therapy
Yoga for Wellness
Yoga RX
Web Resources
On-line depression-screening test
Depression Healing Center
Yoga is not a substitute for conventional western medication; please consult your medical professional before starting a yoga practice.
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