Yoga For Depression – 5 Poses That Provide Immense Relief

• 1. Child’s Pose a.k.a Balasana
• 2.  Downward Dog a.k.a Adho Mukha Svanasana
• 3. Cobra Pose a.k.a Bhujangasana
• 4. Seated Forward Bend a.k.a Paschimottanasana
• 5. Fish Pose a.k.a Matsyasana

Depression can often be a life-long illness. But it doesn’t mean that you cannot find relief. Incorporating activities that bust stress, release energy blockages, as well as boost a sense of wellness can go a long way in helping you manage depression. One such activity is yoga. Numerous studies have found that yoga can have a positive effect on those suffering from mental illness. Here are 5 poses that offer immense relief.

Yoga For Depression

1. Child’s Pose a.k.a Balasana

First up is Child’s Pose, a popular asana taught to relieve both depression as well as anxiety. It gently stretches the entire back and neck, releasing built up stress in the area. It’s extremely effective at inducing feelings of positivity and calmness. It also relieves back and neck pain. You can stay in this pose for some time while consciously relaxing more with each exhale.

Contraindications:

• Pregnancy
• Diarrhea
• Injury or pain in the knees
• Injury or pain in the ankles

2.  Downward Dog a.k.a Adho Mukha Svanasana

The Downward Dog Pose is widely taught in yoga for depression and anxiety. It helps let go of accumulated stress, exhaustion, and negative emotions. It boosts blood circulation to the brain, which creates a refreshing effect on the mind. It’s rather effective for energising the entire body, and it also stretches the hamstrings and back.

Contraindications:

• Late pregnancy
• High blood pressure
• Headache
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Diarrhoea
• Pain or injury in the back, arms, hips, or shoulders

3. Cobra Pose a.k.a Bhujangasana

If you’re feeling down, lethargic, and low on confidence, one of the best poses for you is the Cobra Pose. It is known to boost feelings of optimism and self-worth. It stimulates the mind and body. With a good back stretch, the Cobra Pose gets rid of physical as well as mental exhaustion. It’s also excellent for those with sciatica pain.

Contraindications:

• Hernia
• Stomach ulcers
• Spine, neck or shoulder injury
• Pregnancy
• Menstruation
• Severe asthma

4. Seated Forward Bend a.k.a Paschimottanasana

Next up, the Seated Forward Bend stretches the back, hamstrings, as well as the groin. The full stretch releases all tension from these areas. It’s immensely calming, wonderful for refreshing the mind, elevating moods, and boosting energy levels. This pose also relieves headaches and increases appetite.

Contraindications:

• Asthma
• Back injury
• Diarrhea
• Hernia
• Pregnancy
• Spondylitis

5. Fish Pose a.k.a Matsyasana

Last on the list of poses taught in yoga for depression, the Fish Pose is an excellent asana. It stretches and opens up the chest, as well as relieves tension from the neck and back. By soothing the nervous system, it induces feelings of lightness and peace. Also works pretty well for anxiety relief.

Contraindications:

• Migraine
• Insomnia
• High or low blood pressure
• Back pain or injury
• Recent surgery

Note: This article is solely for the purpose of sharing information. Please do not substitute it for professional medical advice. Before using anything as a medicine, always consult your doctor. The videos shared are only for the purposes of demonstration – so, please learn them from a trained professional to avoid injury or worsening your condition.