Yoga Poses for Depression

Published on October 9, 2008

Yoga’s regulating and energizing properties can help alleviate many of the symptoms of mild depression. The following postures activate and move prana in the body, open the heart center, stimulate and 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 is contraindicated with severe depression or other serious mental disorders. A yoga practice should be used to supplement conventional therapy, not replace it.

Click on an image or posture name for detailed instructions, contraindications and modifications.

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Timothy Burgin Avatar
About the author
Timothy Burgin is a Kripalu & Pranakriya trained yoga instructor living and teaching in Asheville, NC. Timothy has studied and taught many styles of yoga and has completed a 500-hour Advanced Pranakriya Yoga training. Timothy has been serving as the Executive Director of YogaBasics.com since 2000. He has authored two yoga books and has written over 500 articles on the practice and philosophy of yoga. Timothy is also the creator of Japa Mala Beads and has been designing and importing mala beads since 2004.
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