Struggling with Depression and Anxiety? Try These 7 Mood Boosting Yoga Poses

Depression and anxiety are two of the most prevalent mental health conditions today. Most people who suffer from either of them gravitate to therapy and medication for comfort. However, yoga is actually one of the best ways to manage anxiety and depression. 

Causes of Depression and Anxiety 

Both anxiety and depression stem from a combination of factors. Anxiety is linked to stressful environments, overthinking, turbulent personal life and personality type (introverts are more likely to have it). While for depression, some of the most common causes include unresolved trauma, financial stress, grief, hormone imbalance and isolation. 

How Yoga Helps with Depression and Anxiety

Studies suggest that yoga is a great remedy for both depression and anxiety. This is because it improves sleep, restores the body’s hormone balance and improves mood. Pranayam or meditation, also creates a calm state of mind by reducing stress hormones. 

7 Mood Boosting Yoga Poses for Anxiety and Depression Relief 

1. Fish Pose 

Other Names: Matsyasana 

Difficulty Level: Easy

Fish pose or Matsyasana is one of the most beginner friendly asanas (poses) out there. It opens up the chest, strengthens the respiratory system and helps to relieve tension.

2. Child’s Pose 

Other Names: Balasana

Difficulty Level: Easy

Child’s pose or Balasana is a restorative pose. It reduces tension in the back, calms down your nervous system 

3. Legs Up the Wall Pose

Other Names: Viparita Karani

Difficulty Level: Easy

The leg up pose, known as Uttanpadasana in Sanskrit is known for its digestive benefits. It also reduces stress and improves blood circulation to your brain.

4. Cobra Pose

Other Names: Bhujangasana

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Bhujangasana or cobra pose is extremely versatile. It strengthens your spine, improves heart health and decreases lethargy.

5. Bridge Pose 

Other Names: Setu Bandhasana

Difficulty Level: Moderate (Intermediate Level) 

Setu Bandhasana or the bridge pose, is clinically proven to help with anxiety. It stimulates your thyroid, strengthens your spine and increases production of mood boosting hormones like serotonin and dopamine.   

6. Downward Facing Dog 

Other Names: Adho Mukha Svanasana

Difficulty Level: Moderate (Intermediate Level) 

The downward facing dog or Adho Mukha Svanasana is one of the most recommended poses for people struggling with mental health. It relieves tension, energises your brain and improves blood circulation.   

7. Easy Pose 

Other Names: Sukhasana

Difficulty Level: Easy

Sukhasana or easy pose is arguably the pose that everyone associates with yoga. It helps your mind to stay focused, stimulates the vagus nerve and stabilises your breathing. And like the name suggests, it is very beginner friendly.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is only for educational purposes. Kindly consult a medical or health specialist before making any fitness related choices