Relieving Depression With Yoga

There are many different ways to help relieve depression. One way that is natural that seems to be having an effect on hundreds of depressed people everywhere is yoga. Yoga has been and is being tested for the affect it has on the levels of neurotransmitter gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA.) The raising of level of your GABA can potentially improve your anxiety and depression symptoms.   These exercises and positions will help stimulate your circulation and other body functions, including the level of concentration you have and they energy of your mindset.  

One simple yoga position is the mountain pose. This pose is rather easy. With feet together, place your arms at your side and stand as still as you possibly can. With your back straight, tilt your hips in either a cat tilt or tilt your hips forward. Breathe in and out slowly, clearing your mind of all thoughts.

Another pose that is great for beginners is the cat-cow stretch. This pose has you on the floor so if you don’t have a yoga mat you might want to use something to protect your knees.  Get on all fours, meaning get on your hands and knees. Align your wrists with your shoulders and your knees with your hips. Visualize a line that connects the very top of your head to your neck, your shoulders and down your spine to the tip of your tailbone. As you inhale, curl your toes under, drop your belly and raise your gaze up to the ceiling. Start the movement from your tail and work it up your body. On your exhale, release your toes against the floor and push you back into a rounded position. Bring your head toward the floor to where you are able to gaze upon your navel.