By Faye Martins
Yoga has been shown to combat
depression in many ways. Yoga combines exercise, breathing techniques and
mindfulness. All of these have been shown to help significantly reduce the
symptoms of depression and improve the quality of life for depression sufferers.
Exercise is an excellent treatment for depression. Not only is it scientifically shown to help treat depression better than antidepressant drugs in all but the most extreme cases, it helps kick off an upward spiral of better and better health. Yoga is a very physical practice; it engages the whole of a person, mind and body. All yoga is physical exercise on some level, but different styles offer vastly different levels of difficulty. An appropriate level of difficulty can be selected for every fitness level, providing the boost of dopamine needed for the depression-fighting kick.
Many studies have demonstrated deep breathing, specifically with yogic breathing techniques, has a profound impact on depression. There are many theories for why this works, but the most important thing is that we know it does. One such theory is that deep breathing oxygenates the blood more effectively and that that improves mood. Other theories and practices are more esoteric. In particular, Surya Bedhi Pranayama, or Right Nostril Breathing, is thought to help with depression.
Surya Bedhi Pranayama is a practice from Kundalini Yoga. In Kundalini Yoga, three channels govern the flow of energy through the chakras: Ida, Pingala and Shusumna. Making its home on the right side is Pingala. Its characteristics are said to be masculine. It is the master of energy and fire and thought to provide more for those suffering from a lack of those things, which may manifest as depression. Therefore, in Kundalini Yoga, those suffering from depression should activate that channel. Surya Bedhi Pranayama is prescribed to do just that.
To perform Surya Bedhi Pranayama, sit up straight and in a comfortable position. Traditionally, this is done in lotus position, but it may be done in half-lotus, cross-legged or sitting in a chair. Fold your right middle and index finger down so only the thumb, ring finger and pinkie are up. Focus on your breath for five deep breaths as if beginning a mindfulness meditation, and then smoothly seal off your left nostril with your right ring and pinkie fingers. Take long, slow breaths. You can perform this as long as you feel comfortable, but it is recommended to start slowly and work up to fifteen minutes.
Exercise is an excellent treatment for depression. Not only is it scientifically shown to help treat depression better than antidepressant drugs in all but the most extreme cases, it helps kick off an upward spiral of better and better health. Yoga is a very physical practice; it engages the whole of a person, mind and body. All yoga is physical exercise on some level, but different styles offer vastly different levels of difficulty. An appropriate level of difficulty can be selected for every fitness level, providing the boost of dopamine needed for the depression-fighting kick.
Many studies have demonstrated deep breathing, specifically with yogic breathing techniques, has a profound impact on depression. There are many theories for why this works, but the most important thing is that we know it does. One such theory is that deep breathing oxygenates the blood more effectively and that that improves mood. Other theories and practices are more esoteric. In particular, Surya Bedhi Pranayama, or Right Nostril Breathing, is thought to help with depression.
Surya Bedhi Pranayama is a practice from Kundalini Yoga. In Kundalini Yoga, three channels govern the flow of energy through the chakras: Ida, Pingala and Shusumna. Making its home on the right side is Pingala. Its characteristics are said to be masculine. It is the master of energy and fire and thought to provide more for those suffering from a lack of those things, which may manifest as depression. Therefore, in Kundalini Yoga, those suffering from depression should activate that channel. Surya Bedhi Pranayama is prescribed to do just that.
To perform Surya Bedhi Pranayama, sit up straight and in a comfortable position. Traditionally, this is done in lotus position, but it may be done in half-lotus, cross-legged or sitting in a chair. Fold your right middle and index finger down so only the thumb, ring finger and pinkie are up. Focus on your breath for five deep breaths as if beginning a mindfulness meditation, and then smoothly seal off your left nostril with your right ring and pinkie fingers. Take long, slow breaths. You can perform this as long as you feel comfortable, but it is recommended to start slowly and work up to fifteen minutes.
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Yoga is very helpful for personal health, welness & fitness. You provide best online yoga teachers training program for Yoga learners.
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