Depression and anxiety have been steadily growing as lifestyle related mental health conditions.The topic of mental health, which is still a sensitive topic in India, keeps people away from seeking professional help. For milder forms of depression or as a preventive measure, certain changes in your lifestyle can be very beneficial. Practicing yoga is one way to handle anxiety and depression. Since yoga focuses on mindful exercise where a person’s attention is on the body or breathing, yoga eases away worrying or depressing thoughts from the mind.
Here are some effective yoga postures that can be help in fighting depression and anxiety:
1 . Setubandhasana (Bridge pose)
Lying flat on your back with hands on your sides, bend your knees so that your feet are flat on the ground and as close to your buttocks as possible.
Slowly raise your hips with your hands lying on the side and hold the pose for 5 breaths.
2 . Marjariasana (Cat Stretch)
Lying on the floor face-down, get up on all fours with palms planted on ground and knees bent so that you resemble a cat. Your back should be gently arched.
Now breathe normally for 5 counts.
This pose relaxes stomach and spine muscles.
3 . Sukhasana (Easy Pose)
This one is to give you calmness in your mind and body.
Sit cross legged in a comfortable place with your spine straight and palms on your knees like you would be sitting for meditation.
Then breathe normally and focus on the breath entering and exiting your body.
4 . Balasana (Child pose)
For this pose, you have to sit on your heels with your knees bent.
With your arms resting on your thighs, bend your torso towards the floor with your nose touching the floor.
Bring your arms to your sides near your feet with your palms facing upward.
Breathe deeply for 5 to 10 counts.
5 . Savasana (Corpse pose)
This one is the easiest and leads to deep relaxation.
Just lie down on your back and leave your hands loose on your sides.
Let your body relax and sink while taking deep breaths.
You can also try a supported Savasana where a blanket or a pillow is placed along the length of your back.
6 . Paschimottanasana (Seated forward bend)
Besides reducing depression and anxiety, this pose will help in digestion, stretching of back and leg muscles and promotes healthy kidney and uterus.
While sitting with your legs stretched out straight in front of you, bend your torso forward and downward with your nose touching your knees.
Stretch out your hands parallel and above your legs to hold your feet with your palms.
Several studies have proven the benefits of yoga for improving overall physical and mental well-being. Instead of getting lost in worrying or sad thoughts, get up and do some yoga poses to feel better! Stay Healthy, Stay Happy with 1mg, A leading online medical shop in India !