How Yoga Helped Me with Anxiety and Depression
I was struggling with anxiety, grief and depression after losing our family. I tried many different treatments, including medication (not a good fit for me), therapy, and different lifestyle changes including a move half-way across the country. However, nothing seemed to really help until I started doing yoga.
Yoga has helped me in a number of ways.
Reduced my stress levels. When I am stressed, my body releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can cause a number of physical and emotional symptoms, such as increased heart rate, muscle tension, and difficulty sleeping. Yoga has helped me to reduce stress by teaching me how to control my breathing and relax my muscles.
Improved my mood. Yoga can help to increase the production of endorphins, which are hormones that have mood-boosting effects. Yoga can also help to improve sleep, which is important for mental health.
Increased my self-awareness. Yoga has helped me to become more aware of my body and my thoughts. This has been helpful for me, as it has allowed me to identify and manage my symptoms.
I have been practicing yoga for about a couple of years now, and I have seen a significant improvement in my mental health. I am less anxious and depressed, and I have more energy. I am also finally starting to sleep better, and I feel more in control of my life.
If you are struggling with anxiety or depression, I encourage you to try yoga. It may not be the right treatment for everyone, but it has been a lifesaver for me.
Here are some of the specific poses that have helped me the most:
Child's pose:
This pose is a great way to relax and release stress. To do child's pose, start on your hands and knees. Bring your hips back to your heels and rest your forehead on the ground. Breathe deeply and relax your body.
Corpse pose:
This pose is a great way to rest and rejuvenate. To do corpse pose, lie on your back with your legs extended and your arms at your sides. Close your eyes and relax your body. Breathe deeply and focus on your breath.
Bridge pose:
This pose is a great way to strengthen my back and improve my mood. To do bridge pose, lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the ground. Place your hands on your hips and lift your hips off the ground until your body forms a straight line from your shoulders to your knees. Hold for a few breaths and then lower back down to the ground.
Warrior pose:
This pose is a great way to improve my balance and focus. To do warrior pose, start standing with your feet hip-width apart. Step forward with one leg and bend your front knee until it is at a 90-degree angle. Keep your back leg straight and your hips square. Hold for a few breaths and then switch sides.
Sun salutations:
Sun salutations are a series of poses that can help to improve my flexibility, strength, and balance. To do sun salutations, start in standing pose. Bend forward from your hips and place your hands on the ground in front of you. Step your right foot back between your hands and then step your left foot back so that you are in plank pose. Lower down to your knees and then come back up to standing pose. Repeat on the other side.
A couple of helpful suggestions - If you are new to yoga like I was, it is important to start slowly and gradually increase the difficulty of your practice. It is also important to find a yoga instructor who is experienced in working with people with anxiety and depression. It can make all the difference in the world.
Things I love:
Great Beginner Manduka Yoga Mat - It’s a little pricey but thicker so it cushions the knees and elbows
Beginner’s Starter Yoga Set - Great starter set by Gaiam
Yoga with Adriene - Great Beginner/Intermediate Yoga classes
Remember that Yoga can be a helpful addition to your treatment plan for anxiety and depression. If you are thinking about trying yoga, talk to your doctor or therapist. They may be able to help you find a yoga class that is right for you.
