Best Yoga Asanas for Depression with Dr. Hansaji Yogendra
Throughout my healing journey, I came to understand that depression can be an incredibly debilitating symptom. Ranging from mild to severe, it has the power to keep you in bed for days or simply just steal joy from every day moments.
One thing I learned is that when I'm depressed, I cannot think my way out of my feeling. I feel really stuck. It wasn't until I started learning about yoga that I realized I could move my way out of my feelings, or at least find some noticeable relief.
Dr. Hansaji Yogendra beautifully explains some characteristics of depression and offers asanas that can help move your way out of it.*
*This does not constitute as medical advice. Do not stop taking any medications without the supervision of your healthcare practitioner.
Dr. Hansaji Yogendra
Dr. Yogendra is the director of the Yoga Institute of Mumbai, the world's oldest yoga center founded in 1918. She has been in the forefront of the Yoga movement for the last 4 decades as a teacher, educator and author. Her experience and caring nature helps innumerable people across the world find better balance and health in their lives.
Move to Improve Mood
“Yoga is the most powerful anti-depressant" Dr. Hansaji Yogendra
If like me, you suffer from depression, Dr. Yogendra recommends you incorporate these asanas into your practice. Try for at least one round of each per day:
Bow Pose (Dhanurasana): This pose compresses and activates the navel region which is a big source of energy. This stimulus will help bring more energizing qualities into your body.
One-Legged Downward-Facing Dog (Eka Pada Adho Mukha Svanasana): Increases circulation to the brain bringing life-giving nutrients and oxygen for supported brain-function.
Diaphragmatic breathing: This breathing acts to remove stress and tension from your center, resetting your prana (life-energy) which acts to improve sleep and your circadian rhythm.
See entire video below!
Yoga Knowledge Disclaimer
I am currently studying yoga through the Bhodi Yoga Center. Bodhi Yoga™ is a therapeutic style of yoga that benefits beginners and challenges advanced students of any age or ability. It utilizes the power of the "slow approach," where the journey is as important as the destination.
Consult your physician before starting any new intense workout regimen.
Yoga is a ancient tradition linked to Indian cultures. I am not of Indian cultural descent and try to practice yoga from a place of learning and deep respect for cultures that made this practice available for all of us. Any yogic knowledge you see on this page was not created or invented by me, rather established and practiced for thousands of years. For more information on the history of Yoga, click here and visit the Indian Yoga Association webpage.
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