Depressed? Anxious? Yoga Works!
The latest Harvard Mental Health Letter touts yoga as a tool to help people manage both anxiety and depression.
In the past, studies evaluating yoga as a therapeutic tool have been too small and poorly designed to be scientifically sound, says the study. However, a 2004 analysis found that, in recent decades, an increasing number met more rigorous standards. "Available reviews of a wide range of yoga practices suggest they can reduce the impact of exaggerated stress responses and may be helpful for both anxiety and depression. In this respect, yoga functions like other self-soothing techniques, such as meditation, relaxation, exercise, or even socializing with friends."
Isn't it nice to see that science is starting to come around to something yoga practitioners have known for thousands of years? Have any of you seen an improvement in anxiety and depression symptoms because of your yoga practice?
yogajournal.com
vegetariantimes.com
backpacker.com
optimumwellness.com
wholefoodsmarket.com
betternutrition.com
Comments
Seven months ago, I injured my back so severely that I had trouble walking. I had to leave my four-year university and move back home to recover, leaving me in one of the worst waves of depression I've ever experienced, and my history of depression dates back 7 years. Two months ago, while lying in bed surrounded by Percocet and anti-depressants, ready to get back surgery, I decided I didn't want to rely on medication anymore and started a regular yoga practice. That yoga practice changed my life. Since then, I beat the depression that plagued me for so long, my back is almost completely recovered, I've lost ten pounds and I feel like a better person. I am eternally grateful for my yoga practice, and I continue to practice regularly and enthusiastically.
Posted by: Maria | April 9, 2009 07:08 AM
2 months ago I was a passenger in a car accident-my 6th. I grew despondent because I thought the karma was worked out & healed. Through deep relaxation & breathing techniques, mantra japa, my depression just lifted off my shoulders just the other day and though I still have pain, I am again at peace. sumati
Posted by: sumati joyce | April 13, 2009 10:17 PM
I'm interested in studying the relationship between yoga and fear--how yoga helps deal with fear, how fear manifests itself in a yoga practice, etc. Can anyone recommend some good sources for reading?
Posted by: leslie StJohn | April 21, 2009 08:09 PM