Yoga for depression

(June 13, 2008)

I've had depression following divorce; 1 year of alcohol abuse; lost my sex drive and the vigour of HARD erections and passionate, stomping sex sessions! What yoga will bring it all back?

Yoga for depression

Depression can cause psychological effects in many people; in your case I think it has lead to decreased libido and erectile problems. Try the following asanas for depression, they will definitely help you to lighten your emotional load and gain courage. Yoga can work wonders for depression but one should remember if you have serious depression problem then it can not replace a specialist's advice.

Matsyasana or fish pose – lie on your back flat on a yoga mat or on a flat floor with carpet. Keep your legs together and knees straight so that the toes point towards the ceiling. Place your hands under the buttocks and thighs which will in turn cause your chest to move little upwards. Bend your hands at elbows and with the help of elbows and arms push your chest upwards as high as possible. Now drop your head and rest the top of head on the floor with chin facing the ceiling. Breathe normally and hold in this pose for 20 seconds. Breathe out and relax. This pose helps to deal with depression and anxiety and is a great chest opener (many people with depression have a feeling of pressure or tightness in the chest).
Balasana or child's pose – perform this pose preferably after the fish pose. Kneel on a toga mat and then sit directly on your heels. Bring both the knees little apart so that they are in line with the hips. Bend forward at waist and hips and place your chest between two thighs. Do not lift your buttocks and at the same time try to rest your forehead on the floor (if you feel uncomfortable then place a cushion before the forehead). Stretch your arms on either side of the head in front of you. Stay in this position for as log as you feel comfortable. This pose is not only relaxing but also gives a sense of security and safety.

Submitted by S M on June 13, 2008 at 08:00