By Gopi Rao
Improving moods with yoga practice is a reality. It is well known that yoga can help improve moods and alleviate stress. Yet, how does yoga specifically help with moods? Additionally, what kind of yoga is most effective? There are many different types of yoga, each with its focus and benefits. However, all types of yoga generally involve three elements: physical postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), and meditation (dhyana).
Yogic Methods
Each of these elements can help to improve moods in different ways. Physical postures (asanas) help release body tension and increase flexibility and strength. They can also help to improve circulation and bring more oxygen to the brain. All of these effects can lead to a better mood. Breathing exercises (pranayama) help regulate the breath, which can help calm the mind. Meditation (dhyana) helps to focus the mind and achieve inner peace. When the mind is calm, it is less likely to be affected by negative emotions.
Where’s the Research
Studies at the Boston University School of Medicine may help to explain Yoga’s positive effects on moods and mood disorders. According to their research, Yoga increases the level of GABA, a neurotransmitter that affects the brain in much the same way that an antidepressant does. If these results prove to be true, Yoga could become a non-drug alternative, or adjunct therapy, for treating conditions like depression and anxiety disorders.
Practical Application
Yoga also improves the quality of life for those suffering from chronic stress and tension in daily life. According to Dr. Madan Kataria, the founder of Laughter Yoga, maintaining a good mood is as simple as controlling one’s reactions to positive and negative emotions. The brain needs approximately 25% more oxygen to operate effectively than the other organs. Yoga not only produces natural chemicals that calm the mind but also increases the supply of freshly oxygenated blood to the brain.
Emotional Energy
Negative moods and emotions create a self-fulfilling cycle. When a person is angry or anxious, breathing becomes shallow and irregular. As a result, the body takes in less oxygen, and its organs function less efficiently – increasing the likelihood of fatigue, depression, and illness. In turn, physical activity and mental alertness decrease, and the need for mood-altering substances to combat mood swings escalate.
Mixing Methods
Yoga uses a mixture of healing methods to improve moods and emotional health. These methods include physical activity, breathing exercises, meditation, and relaxation. Physical activity is one of the most important methods for improving moods and emotional health. Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. Yoga combines physical activity with breathing exercises and meditation, which can further improve moods and emotional health.
Pranayama and Meditation
Breathing exercises are another important part of yoga for improving moods and emotional health. Proper breathing helps to oxygenate the blood, which can help to improve energy levels and mental clarity. Breathing exercises also help calm the nervous system, reducing stress levels. Meditation is another key element of yoga that can help to improve moods and emotional health. Meditation helps to focus the mind and allows for a deeper level of relaxation. This deeper level of relaxation can help reduce stress and promote overall well-being.
Relaxation Techniques
Firstly, relaxation is another important aspect of yoga that can help to improve moods and emotional health. Secondly, progressive muscle relaxation techniques can help reduce tension and promote a sense of calm. Thirdly, relaxation techniques can also help to improve sleep quality, which can further improve moods and emotional health. Additionally, meditation and breathing help regulate the adrenal system and calm the mind.
Asana Practice
Asanas (Yoga Poses) are the most well-known Yogic technique. Yoga asanas are often practiced for their restorative and stabilizing effect on emotions.
Legs Up the Wall Pose is great for restoring energy, reducing blood pressure, and boosting the immune system.
Supported Bridge Pose helps to balance hormones, manage headaches, and relieve hot flashes.
Supine Bound Angle Pose helps to relieve mood swings and depression.
Child’s Pose relieves tension in the back and neck and restores energy and balance.
The corpse Pose relaxes the entire body and reduces fatigue and mild depression.
Bridge Pose helps to alleviate symptoms of menopause and rejuvenates tired legs.
Downward Facing Dog helps to balance mood swings and can be helpful for adolescents.
Results
Improving moods with Yoga is happening every day. Mood swings, especially, fluctuate throughout the different stages and circumstances of life. From budding puberty to post-menopause, a good Yoga instructor can help to develop a routine that deals with relevant issues and provides a basis for general health and well-being.
Closer Look
Therapeutic Hatha Yoga is under the close study of modern medical science, and the initial test results are promising. Yoga teacher training programs and continuing education courses are available for instructors aware of student needs for solutions concerning anxiety and depression.
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This has brought much insight and I appreciate it. I have struggled with depression and anxiety my whole life. I now feel like I am going to have to take medication for the rest of my life just to survive. Unfortunately, this has gotten in the way of my yoga practice and teaching. Thank you for your wisdom and I this will help me!
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Yoga not only produces natural chemicals that calm the mind, but it also increases the supply of freshly oxygenated blood to the brain. Thanks for posting this informative article.