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