| When you're experiencing symptoms of | | | | reduce stress, contributing to a more |
| depression, exercise may be the last thing | | | | peaceful state of mind and positive outlook. |
| you want to think about doing; however, it | | | | You might see the results in better mood |
| could be one of the most beneficial, | | | | control, improved concentration and energy |
| particularly if the exercise you choose is | | | | levels, as well as in your general sense of |
| yoga. | | | | well-being. |
| | | | |
| Well over a hundred million people worldwide | | | | There's science behind the positive effects |
| are affected by depression, and in the U.S. | | | | of yoga, as well. Practicing yoga can |
| alone the annual cost of medically treating | | | | stimulate the nervous system and circulation, |
| depression is astronomical. That said, yoga | | | | raising the levels of hormones that make us |
| isn't an instant cure or a replacement for | | | | feel good and decreasing those that cause us |
| the clinical treatment of severe depression. | | | | to feel stressed. Yoga practice can also be |
| But at the same time, yoga practice may ease | | | | beneficial to the immune system and can help |
| some of the symptoms of depression or even | | | | flush toxins from the body. |
| clear a path of sight through the gloom. It | | | | |
| might also increase feelings of empowerment | | | | If you're interested in trying yoga to soothe |
| for sufferers, by showing them a way to treat | | | | feelings of depression, you might want to |
| themselves better. | | | | join a class at a nearby yoga studio, fitness |
| | | | club or community center. A good certified |
| If you're new to yoga, the hardest thing | | | | instructor should be able to provide you with |
| might be actually making it to the mat; but | | | | tips and poses that are particularly good for |
| even if you start with just a few poses a | | | | easing depression, but you can also turn to |
| day, you may find that you're soon ready to | | | | videos or the Internet for sites addressing |
| do more. The slow, deep breathing, the yoga | | | | this more specific use of the practice. |
| postures and the meditation can each help you | | | | |
| to become more in tune with yourself, by | | | | For a more in-depth examination of the |
| strengthening your sense of wholeness and | | | | relationship between yoga and mental health, |
| balance in mind, body and spirit. | | | | you might want to read Yoga for Depression: A |
| | | | Compassionate Guide to Relieve Suffering |
| The benefits of yoga don't end there. | | | | Through Yoga, by yoga instructor and mentor |
| Regular, slow and gentle practice can help | | | | Amy Weinstraub. |