Strike a Pose: How Yoga May Combat Depression

Strike a Pose: How Yoga May Combat Depression

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Depression may strike us at any given time, and women are twice as likely as men to suffer from it. Scientists are psychologists provide us with a whole platter of different reasons to this gloomy monster; while some of them point out genetic predisposition and hormonal imbalances to be the source, others point to psychological and sociocultural factors.

Regardless of its source, depression is hard to fight – and especially when you do it on your own. Exercise has proven to work wonders on our mind, though, and certain types seem to be more effective than others.

Why Yoga?

This ancient activity is a sequence of poses and is supposed to clear the mind to prepare it for meditation. Today, we focus more on the physical benefits of practicing – as well as celebrating the added benefits of a calmer and steadier mind. We’re looking at it from the other way around, in other words, where ancient yogis would see added strength and flexibility as a nice little bonus to a quiet and relaxed mind.

By combining these two benefits, the strength a yoga practice can give your body as well as the calm and meditative state we tend to practice in, you achieve a holistic view of your health where the mind, as well as the body, is in focus.

This is important to feel more connected, in general, and to be able to deal with chronic and daily stress.

Health is about more than activity and a peaceful mind, although this certainly takes you a long way. Make sure you eat a variety of food, mostly plants, and bathe your cells in quantities of water every day. Read up on a few AlgaeCal reviews if you’re an aging woman, as we all are, and keep up with the cardio to keep your heart healthy.

To stay strong and vigorous, you need to tackle the problems that are specific to your health; consider supplements if you’re not eating enough nutrients, and always consult with your doctor before taking anything new.

The best poses to combat depression

If you’re convinced, it’s time to roll out your mat and enjoy a deep and energizing breath. Some of the yoga poses are known for its abilities to increase your mindfulness and turn you inwards rather than outwards to bring you closer to yourself. Inversions are usually the best mind-boosting poses you can choose, such as the forward fold and head-to-knee forward bend.

Remember that any forward bend should be equaled out with a back bend, such as the cobra and bridge. If you’re not that advanced in yoga yet, try to modify your bridge by keeping it in a table-top style rather than a full bridge.

Other complicated inversions, such as the headstand and shoulderstand are also known for their healing effects – but again, don’t attempt these without having a yoga teacher around.

Holding these for around eight breaths or up to two minutes is good for both your mind and your body. Breathe slowly through your nose and keep the exhalations as long as your inhalations.

It might not make you instantly healthy, but keep it up and you’ll reap the benefits of your practice with a happy mind that’s ready to tackle the challenges of life

Tia, and TipsfromTia.com  is trying to keep you looking good and
feeling good, from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter or Instagram